Rhubarb crumble is a timeless British dessert, combining tart, tender rhubarb with a golden, buttery topping. Gordon Ramsay’s take on this dish is simple yet refined, allowing the natural flavor of rhubarb to shine through while delivering the perfect balance of sweet and sour with a crisp topping. Whether served with custard, cream, or ice cream, it’s a comforting dessert that never goes out of style.
What is Gordon Ramsay Rhubarb Crumble?
Gordon Ramsay’s rhubarb crumble features fresh rhubarb tossed with sugar and orange zest, baked beneath a crumbly topping made from flour, butter, and demerara sugar. His method brings out the best in the rhubarb—cooked until soft and juicy—while the crumble stays crisp and golden. It’s rustic, elegant, and perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Other Gordon Ramsay Recipes
Reasons to Try Gordon Ramsay Rhubarb Crumble
- Perfect balance of tart and sweet
Rhubarb’s natural acidity is softened with just enough sugar and citrus. - Crispy, buttery topping
The crumble stays crunchy even against the juicy fruit base. - Simple ingredients, big flavor
A humble dessert elevated with professional technique. - Ideal for make-ahead baking
You can prep and refrigerate until ready to bake. - Versatile serving options
Serve with custard, ice cream, or crème fraîche. - Crowd-pleaser
Comforting and nostalgic, this dessert suits every age and setting.
Ingredients Needed to Make Gordon Ramsay Rhubarb Crumble
For the fruit filling:
- 1½ lbs (700g) fresh rhubarb, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
For the crumble topping:
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (100g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
- ½ cup (100g) demerara sugar (or light brown sugar)
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons oats or chopped nuts (optional, for added texture)
Instructions to Prepare Gordon Ramsay Rhubarb Crumble
- Preheat the oven: Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly butter a baking dish (8×8-inch or similar).
- Prepare the fruit base: In a large bowl, toss the chopped rhubarb with sugar, orange zest, orange juice, and cinnamon if using. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Make the crumble topping: In another bowl, mix the flour and a pinch of salt. Add the cubed cold butter and rub it into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
- Add the sugar and extras: Stir in the demerara sugar and oats or chopped nuts if using. Mix until well combined.
- Top the fruit mixture: Sprinkle the crumble evenly over the rhubarb, covering it fully but not pressing down too hard.
- Bake the crumble: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the rhubarb is bubbling around the edges.
- Cool and serve: Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving warm with your favorite accompaniment.

What Goes Well With Gordon Ramsay Rhubarb Crumble
- Vanilla custard – A traditional and creamy complement to the tart rhubarb.
- Whipped cream – Light and simple, letting the crumble shine.
- Vanilla or ginger ice cream – Adds richness and a cooling contrast.
- Greek yogurt – A tangy, healthier option that pairs well with the tart fruit.
- Honey drizzle – A sweet finishing touch if you like it a bit more indulgent.
Key Tips for Making Gordon Ramsay Rhubarb Crumble
- Use fresh rhubarb when possible – It yields the best flavor and texture.
- Cut rhubarb evenly – Ensures even cooking and prevents mushy spots.
- Don’t overmix the topping – The goal is to keep it crumbly, not smooth.
- Chill the crumble topping if making ahead – Keeps the butter firm for baking.
- Add oats or nuts for crunch – They give the crumble extra body and texture.
- Avoid overbaking – Once the top is golden and crisp, it’s ready.
- Let it rest before serving – This allows the juices to settle slightly.
Creative Variations of Gordon Ramsay Rhubarb Crumble
- Add strawberries or apples – Softens the tartness and adds more layers of flavor.
- Use brown sugar in the filling – For a deeper, molasses-like sweetness.
- Include chopped ginger – Adds a bit of warmth and spice.
- Mix in lemon zest instead of orange – For a sharper citrus punch.
- Top with granola – For a quick crumble alternative and extra crunch.
- Serve cold with yogurt for breakfast – A deliciously different way to enjoy leftovers.
Storage Guidelines for Gordon Ramsay Rhubarb Crumble
- Refrigerate leftovers – Cover and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Let it cool before storing – Prevents condensation from softening the topping.
- Reheat before serving – Use oven or microwave (see below).
- Freeze for later – Wrap well and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Tips for Gordon Ramsay Rhubarb Crumble
- Oven method: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes until hot and crispy.
- Microwave method: Heat individual portions for 30–60 seconds, but the topping may soften.
- Reheat from frozen: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes.
Nutrition Value (per serving, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 310
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Sugar: 27g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 100mg
Gordon Ramsay Rhubarb Crumble Recipe
Gordon Ramsay’s rhubarb crumble features fresh rhubarb tossed with sugar and orange zest, baked beneath a crumbly topping made from flour, butter, and demerara sugar. His method brings out the best in the rhubarb—cooked until soft and juicy—while the crumble stays crisp and golden. It’s rustic, elegant, and perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 40
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Ingredients
For the fruit filling:
-
1½ lbs (700g) fresh rhubarb, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
-
½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
-
1 tablespoon orange zest
-
1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
-
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
For the crumble topping:
-
1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
-
½ cup (100g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
-
½ cup (100g) demerara sugar (or light brown sugar)
-
Pinch of salt
-
2 tablespoons oats or chopped nuts (optional, for added texture)
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven: Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly butter a baking dish (8×8-inch or similar).
-
Prepare the fruit base: In a large bowl, toss the chopped rhubarb with sugar, orange zest, orange juice, and cinnamon if using. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
-
Make the crumble topping: In another bowl, mix the flour and a pinch of salt. Add the cubed cold butter and rub it into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
-
Add the sugar and extras: Stir in the demerara sugar and oats or chopped nuts if using. Mix until well combined.
-
Top the fruit mixture: Sprinkle the crumble evenly over the rhubarb, covering it fully but not pressing down too hard.
-
Bake the crumble: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the rhubarb is bubbling around the edges.
-
Cool and serve: Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving warm with your favorite accompaniment.
FAQs
Do I need to peel rhubarb for crumble?
No, you do not need to peel rhubarb for crumble. Simply trim the ends and remove any tough outer strands if visible. The skin softens during baking and adds to the vibrant color of the dish.
Why is my rhubarb crumble too watery?
Rhubarb crumble can become watery if the rhubarb isn’t coated properly with sugar or if it’s overly ripe. Adding a small amount of cornstarch or flour to the fruit mixture helps thicken the juices as it bakes.
Can I make rhubarb crumble in advance?
Yes, you can prepare rhubarb crumble ahead of time. Assemble the dish and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving for the freshest texture and flavor.
What fruit goes well with rhubarb in a crumble?
Strawberries, apples, raspberries, and pears pair well with rhubarb in a crumble. They balance rhubarb’s tartness and create a more rounded flavor profile.
Final Words
Gordon Ramsay’s rhubarb crumble is a comforting dessert that showcases the natural beauty of fresh rhubarb with a crisp, golden topping. It’s simple to make, incredibly satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. Serve it warm with your favorite topping, and enjoy a classic dish with a chef’s touch.