Moist Rhubarb Cake

Moist Rhubarb Cake

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Moist Rhubarb Cake

This Rhubarb Cake is a nostalgic, joy-filled treat that brings together the perfect balance of sweet and tart. With tender bites of rhubarb tucked into a soft, buttery cake and finished with a cinnamon-sugar topping that adds just the right crunch, it’s a comforting classic that feels like a warm hug from Grandma’s kitchen. Whether you’re hosting brunch, treating yourself with a cup of tea, or sharing a slice with friends, this cake is simple to make—and impossible to forget. A Joyista favorite for savoring the little moments

  • Author: Kari Jean your Joyista
  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 40-45
  • Total Time: 50-55
  • Yield: 12 1x
  • Category: Cakes
  • Method: Oven
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Batter:

2 cups diced rhubarb

1 1/2 cups sugar

1/2 cup butter, softened

1 egg

1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)

1 tsp vanilla extract

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp salt

Topping:

1/2 cup sugar

1 tsp cinnamon

2 tbsp butter, cut into small pieces

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

  2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar. Add the egg, buttermilk, and vanilla, mixing until smooth.

  3. In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture.

  4. Fold in the rhubarb.

  5. Pour the batter into the prepared dish.

  6. Mix the topping ingredients together and sprinkle evenly over the batter.

  7. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

  8. Let cool slightly before serving. Delicious warm or at room temperature!

Notes

Tips:

  • No buttermilk? Make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes.

  • Fresh or frozen rhubarb works—just thaw and drain well if using frozen to avoid extra moisture.

  • Add a handful of chopped strawberries for a sweet twist on the classic rhubarb flavor.

  • This cake stays moist for days—store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

 Perfect Pairings:

  • Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.

  • A drizzle of warm custard or lemon glaze takes it to another level.

  • Enjoy alongside a mug of Earl Grey tea, light roast coffee, or a rosé wine spritzer for a garden-party vibe.

Nutrition Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is an estimate based on standard ingredients and serving sizes. Actual values may vary depending on specific products used and portion sizes. This information is provided for convenience and should not be considered medical or dietary advice.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/12
  • Calories: 262
  • Fat: 9
  • Carbohydrates: 43
  • Protein: 3

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This yummy Moist Rhubarb Cake is a perfect balance of sweet and tart.