Jiffy Rhubarb Dessert
A warm, comforting dessert featuring tangy rhubarb topped with a sweet cake-like crust. The combination of tart fruit, sugary gelatin, and buttery topping creates a nostalgic treat perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings. Easy to prepare and naturally vibrant in color and flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease a 7 x 10-inch pan.
- Place the raw rhubarb in the prepared pan.
- Sprinkle the rhubarb with sugar.
- Sprinkle the dry strawberry gelatin over the sugar-coated rhubarb.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the gelatin.
- Gently pour the cold water over all the ingredients.
- Drizzle the melted margarine or butter over the top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter dessert, consider increasing the sugar to 1 1/4 cups. If rhubarb is unavailable, you can substitute with frozen strawberries or mixed berries for a different flavor profile. Ensure the cake mix is dry before sprinkling it over the other ingredients; this helps achieve a better texture. If you prefer a lighter option, you could try using a sugar substitute suitable for baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful dessert warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess. It pairs beautifully with My Friend Jean'S Fruit Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a more festive touch, you can sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or until warmed through. If reheating the entire dish, cover it with foil and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jiffy Rhubarb Dessert contains roughly 825 calories, with 3g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 79g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen rhubarb instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen rhubarb for this recipe. Simply thaw and drain any excess moisture before using it. This will help maintain the texture of the dessert. Keep in mind that the baking time may vary slightly, so check for doneness as it bakes.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free cake mix in place of the regular cake mix. Ensure that all other ingredients, including the gelatin, are gluten-free as well. This way, you can enjoy a delicious gluten-free version of this Jiffy Rhubarb Dessert.
How can I make this dessert more visually appealing?
To enhance the presentation, consider adding fresh fruits like strawberries or raspberries on top before serving. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce can also elevate its look. Serving it in individual ramekins can add a nice touch for gatherings.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).