Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake

Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake

A Sweet Taste of Nostalgia

Imagine the tantalizing aroma of a warm cake, which fills your kitchen with memories of simpler times and cherished family gatherings. That’s exactly what the Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake brings to your table! This delightful dish is a colorful celebration of rhubarb’s unique sweet-and-sour flavor, perfectly balanced in a light and fluffy cake. Whether you’re hosting a spring picnic or simply craving a slice of nostalgia, this cake meets all your desires for comfort, flavor, and a touch of home.

Did you know that rhubarb is often referred to as the "pie plant?" It has a long history of being used in desserts dating back centuries. The story behind this cake is one of simplicity—it’s the kind of recipe passed down through generations, cherished not just for its taste but also for the memories it evokes. If you love the classic warmth of Grandma’s kitchen and the inviting scent of freshly baked goods, this cake is a must-try. It’s as easy to prepare as your favorite chocolate chip cookie, making it a perfect choice for busy families or anyone wanting a homemade treat without too much fuss.

What is Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake?

So, what’s in a name? The Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake is not just a mouthful to say; it’s a nod to not only its rich cultural roots but also its delightful nature. Picture a classic cake that’s moist, tender, and speckled with vibrant rhubarb. It’s so good, you might wonder why it doesn’t have a fan club! There’s a sprinkle of sugar, some vanilla, and the tangy rhubarb—all of which combine to create a cake that tastes like a hug from your favorite relative. They say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and if that’s true, then this cake could win over anyone! So, why not roll up your sleeves and give it a whirl? You’ll definitely impress everyone with this simple yet spectacular dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake! First and foremost is its tantalizing burst of flavor. The contrasting sweet and tart notes of rhubarb create a lovely balance that dances on your taste buds, making each bite a refreshing delight. Secondly, making this cake at home proves to be an economical choice. You can indulge in a tender, homemade dessert without the high price tag of bakery treats! Lastly, the cake is versatile—you can serve it plain, or dress it up with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an elevated dessert experience. If you enjoy other classic desserts like apple pie, this cake is a must-try for your next baking adventure!

How to Make Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake

Quick Overview

For those seeking an easy-to-make, delicious cake that’s guaranteed to impress, Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake is the answer! This dessert is a breeze to whip up in just about an hour, including baking time. Don’t worry about complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients. With just a few basic pantry staples and some fresh rhubarb, you’ll have a homemade cake that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Key Ingredients for Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake

• 2 cups rhubarb, diced
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for your cake.

2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray to avoid any sticking.

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together until well blended.

4. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the sugar and melted butter until creamy. Add the eggs and vanilla, beating until fully incorporated. Gradually add the milk, mixing well.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Don’t overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!

6. Fold in the Rhubarb: Gently fold in the diced rhubarb, distributing it evenly throughout the batter.

7. Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Once cooled, slice into squares and enjoy!

What to Serve Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake With

Looking to elevate your dessert experience? Pair your Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance its delightful flavors. It also goes wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. For a more festive presentation, consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad or colorful berries that will beautifully contrast the flavors and textures of the cake.

Top Tips for Perfecting Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake

1. Use Fresh Rhubarb: Ensure that you use fresh, vibrant rhubarb for the best flavor and texture. If rhubarb is out of season, consider using frozen, but thaw and drain it well before adding it to the batter.

2. Adjust Sweetness: Depending on the tartness of your rhubarb, you may want to adjust the amount of sugar in the batter. If you love bold flavors, feel free to add an extra tablespoon or two!

3. Don’t Overmix: Mixing too vigorously can lead to a dense cake. Stir delicate and gently when combining ingredients for a lighter texture.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Storing leftover Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake is simple! Place leftover slices in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will last for up to 3-4 days, maintaining its delicious taste. If you want to save it for later, the cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature, or pop a slice in the microwave for a few seconds. Enjoy!

With its warm flavors and delightful textures, the Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience! Ready to create lasting memories around your kitchen table? Take a crack at this recipe and enjoy the sweet rewards!

Old-Fashioned Norwegian Rhubarb Cake

A delightful cake featuring rhubarb's unique sweet-and-sour flavor, perfect for family gatherings and spring picnics.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 12 servings

Course: Cake, Dessert

Cuisine: Baked Goods, Norwegian

Calories: 300

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Cake Ingredients

• 2 cups rhubarb, diced Use fresh rhubarb for best flavor and texture.
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar Adjust amount based on the tartness of the rhubarb.
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour Standard flour for cake.
• 1 cup milk Whole milk preferred for richness.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted Can substitute with oil if needed.
• 2 large eggs Room temperature for better mixing.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Pure vanilla enhances the flavor.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder Helps the cake rise.
• ½ teaspoon salt Balances sweetness.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk until well blended.
4. In another bowl, mix the sugar and melted butter until creamy. Add the eggs and vanilla, blending until fully incorporated. Gradually mix in the milk.
5. Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
6. Gently fold in the diced rhubarb evenly throughout the batter.

Baking

1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
4. Once cooled, slice into squares and enjoy!

Notes

Serve with freshly whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Pairs beautifully with tea or coffee.