This delightful loaf showcases the tangy flavor of fresh, locally-grown rhubarb, complemented by a sweet and crunchy streusel topping. Perfect for a springtime treat!
INGREDIENTS
For the Loaf:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (500 mL)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder (10 mL)
- ½ teaspoon baking soda (2.5 mL)
- ½ teaspoon salt (2.5 mL)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature (125 mL)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (250 mL)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5 mL)
- 1 cup buttermilk (250 mL)
- 2 cups fresh rhubarb, diced (500 mL)
For the Streusel Topping:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (125 mL)
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed (125 mL)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (5 mL)
- ¼ cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces (60 mL)
METHOD
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a standard 9x5 inch (23x13 cm) loaf pan.
Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Fold in Rhubarb: Gently fold in the diced rhubarb until evenly distributed.
Prepare the Streusel Topping: In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Assemble the Loaf: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Evenly sprinkle the streusel topping over the batter.
Bake: Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
Cool: Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve: Slice and enjoy your rhubarb streusel loaf straight up or with vanilla ice cream