Rhubarb Surprise Cake
A delicious rhubarb cake with a moist crumb, topped with nuts and brown sugar, perfect for sharing at dessert or tea time with a hint of tartness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and grease a 12 x 9 x 2-inch pan.
- In a bowl, beat the egg, sugar, sour cream, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Gently fold in the sliced rhubarb.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Sprinkle chopped nuts and brown sugar evenly over the top.
- Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best texture, ensure your sour cream is at room temperature before mixing. If you don't have fresh rhubarb, frozen rhubarb works well too; just thaw and drain excess moisture. Consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra flavor. Chopped pecans or walnuts can be used for the topping if you prefer.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm, with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light salad, like Iowa Pea Salad, for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Rhubarb Surprise Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice a piece and warm it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or until heated through. This cake can also be enjoyed cold, straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rhubarb Surprise Cake contains roughly 115 calories, with 2g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1057mg per serving (46% of the Daily Value).
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 substitute the rhubarb with another fruit?
Yes, you can substitute rhubarb with fruits like strawberries or apples, though the baking time may vary slightly. Just ensure the fruit is not too watery to maintain the cake's texture.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to avoid overcooking.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just pour it into the pan and bake it fresh the next day for the best flavor and texture.
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).