Rhubarb and Cheese Crumble Bread

This delicious rhubarb and cheese crumble bread offers a unique twist on a classic dessert, combining tangy rhubarb with the savory depth of cheese. The crumbly topping made of flour, butter, and poppy seeds adds a delightful texture that perfectly contrasts with the tender rhubarb and the aromatic notes of nutmeg. It's a treat that brings together unlikely ingredients to create a harmonious blend of flavors. The bread is lightly sweetened with brown sugar and balanced by the earthy taste of raisins, making it both a delightful dessert and a delicious breakfast option. With preparation taking just a short time, this recipe is perfect for spontaneous baking sessions. Serve it warm for the ultimate cozy experience or enjoy it as it cools, allowing the layers of flavors to deepen. Whether baked for a family gathering or a quiet afternoon tea, this dish shines with its originality and depth. Its golden crust and rich filling will quickly become a favorite for those seeking a new kind of comfort food.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• Rhubarb: 600 g
• Brown Sugar: 160 g
• Nutmeg: 1/3 tsp
• Raisins: 80 g

For the Crumble:

• Premium Wheat Flour: 200 g
• Butter: 200 g, softened
• Hard Cheese (Djugas): 100 g
• Poppy Seeds: 1 handful

Yield:

• Serves: 6

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 60 minutes
  • Preparation: 30 minutes
  • Cooking: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Crumble: Start by grating the hard cheese into the wheat flour to create fine cheese-flavored granules.
2. Ensure the butter is soft by leaving it out at room temperature beforehand.
3. Using your hands, blend the butter with the flour and cheese mixture. Incorporate the poppy seeds until they are evenly distributed.
4. The crumble is ready when the mixture no longer sticks to your hands and feels crumbly.
5. Prepare the Rhubarb: Peel the rhubarb stalks, removing any stringy outer layers, and cut them into small cubes.
6. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and allow it to reach temperature.
7. Spread one-third of the crumble mixture evenly across the base of your baking dish to form a bottom layer.
8. Bake the crumble-lined dish for 15 minutes, allowing it to form a slight crust.
9. Evenly distribute the cubed rhubarb, raisins, brown sugar, and nutmeg over the pre-baked crumble base.
10. Cover the fruit and spice layer with the remaining crumble mixture.
11. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
12. Allow the bread to cool completely in the baking dish. This step is essential to prevent the crumble from falling apart when slicing.
13. Carefully remove the crumble bread from the dish after it has cooled, ensuring you do not break it.
14. Slice the bread into six even portions for serving.
15. To enhance flavors, consider warming each slice slightly before serving.
16. Storing: Store leftover pieces in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
17. Freeze Option: For extended freshness, consider freezing individual slices, which can be quickly reheated.
18. Finishing Touches: Right before plating, sift additional icing sugar over the top for a decorative flair.
19. Final Check: Ensure the crumble is completely cool before attempting to transfer it, preserving its structure.
20. Enjoy! Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extravagant treat.

Tips

• Cheese Substitution: If Djugas cheese is unavailable, substitute with a similar hard cheese like Parmesan.
• Spice Option: Cinnamon can replace nutmeg for a warmer flavor profile.
• Rhubarb Warning: Always discard rhubarb leaves as they are toxic; use only stalks for cooking.

Nutritions

• Calories: 350 per serving
• Protein: 7g
• Fats: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 39g

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour in the crumble.
• Vegan: Substitute butter with coconut oil and cheese with a plant-based option.
• Sugar-Free: Replace brown sugar with a sugar substitute or honey.

Serving Suggestions

• Pairings: Serve with tea or coffee for a satisfying afternoon snack.
• Accompaniments: A fresh fruit salad or a scoop of Greek yogurt complements this dish nicely.

Best Places

1. The Rhubarb House Cafe - Known for its inventive rhubarb dishes and cozy setting. Location: 23 High Street, York, UK.
2. Cheese & Crumb Delight - Famous for their unique cheesy desserts. Location: 45 Rue Cler, Paris, France.
3. Rhubarb Rhubarb - Offers an entire menu dedicated to rhubarb delights. Location: 9 Front Street, Brunswick, USA.
4. Crumble Corner - A quaint spot serving traditional and modern crumbles. Location: 12 Market Lane, Melbourne, Australia.
5. Dairy & Dough - Specializes in cheese-based pastries and treats. Location: 17 Queen’s Road, Toronto, Canada.
6. Poppy’s Pantry - Known for poppy seed-enhanced baked goods. Location: 8 Holland Park, London, UK.
7. Harvest Bakery - Offers seasonal takes on classic recipes. Location: 5 Orchard Street, Cape Town, South Africa.
8. Sweet Succulent - Specializing in sugar-free desserts. Location: 13 Palm Blvd, Miami, USA.
9. Pastry Paradise - Offers a range of vegan and traditional pastries. Location: 25 Baker Street, Wellington, New Zealand.
10. Crumble & Crust - Known for creative and delicious crumbles. Location: 34 Orchard Terrace, Dublin, Ireland.