Easy Slow Cooker Rhubarb Sauce Recipe for Perfect Effortless Flavor
This easy slow cooker rhubarb sauce transforms tart rhubarb into a silky, sweet-tart sauce perfect for topping pancakes, yogurt, or ice cream. The hands-off slow cooker method makes it simple and forgiving.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 8 minutes
- Yield: About 1.5 cups sauce (approximately 8 servings of 2 tablespoons each) 1x
- Category: Sauce
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh rhubarb stalks, chopped (about 600g / 1.3 lbs)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150g)
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (60ml)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup water (60ml)
Instructions
- Rinse 4 cups (600g) of fresh rhubarb stalks and cut into roughly 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces.
- Place the chopped rhubarb into the slow cooker. Add 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar, 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh orange juice, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 cup (60ml) water. Stir gently to combine.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours without lifting the lid.
- After 4 hours, check the rhubarb for softness. Mash larger chunks with a spoon or blend gently with an immersion blender for a smoother sauce. If too runny, cook uncovered for an additional 20-30 minutes to thicken.
- Allow the sauce to cool slightly before transferring to jars or containers. It will thicken as it cools.
Notes
If rhubarb is very tart, add an extra tablespoon of sugar during cooking. For a thicker sauce, cook uncovered for 20-30 minutes after slow cooking. Adding fresh berries during the last 15-30 minutes of cooking adds a fruity twist. Avoid stirring during cooking to maintain heat. Frozen rhubarb can be used but may require less water and longer cooking to thicken. Sauce stores up to one week refrigerated and freezes well.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons (30g)
- Calories: 40
- Sugar: 8
- Carbohydrates: 10
- Fiber: 1
Keywords: rhubarb sauce, slow cooker rhubarb sauce, easy rhubarb recipe, sweet-tart sauce, slow cooker recipes, dessert sauce, breakfast topping, gluten-free, vegan