There are few treats as delightfully nostalgic and eye-catching as Rhubarb Puff-Tart Pockets. These golden, flaky pastries burst with tangy-sweet rhubarb and a whisper of cinnamon, all encased in buttery puff pastry—pure joy in every bite! Whether you’re seeking an easy homemade dessert or a whimsical snack to brighten up afternoon tea, this recipe guarantees bakery-worthy results with no fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need
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Puff-Tart Pockets:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 cup rhubarb, finely chopped
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- coarse sugar for sprinkling (optional)
For the Glaze (optional):
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Rhubarb Puff-Tart Pockets
Step 1: Cook the Rhubarb Filling
Time for a little stovetop magic! Combine your finely chopped rhubarb, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and cinnamon in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir often for 5 to 7 minutes, until the fruit softens and the mixture thickens into a glossy, jewel-toned jam. Remember, the mixture will thicken a little more as it cools, so don’t worry if it looks a touch loose at first.
Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Lightly dust your countertop with flour and unfurl the thawed puff pastry. Roll it gently to smooth out creases and cut it into 6 equal rectangles. This is where crisp edges and flaky layers are born! If the pastry gets soft, pop it in the fridge for a few minutes—cool dough equals maximum puff.
Step 3: Fill and Shape the Pockets
Spoon a generous dollop of cooled rhubarb filling onto one half of each pastry rectangle, leaving a tidy border around the edge. Fold the empty half over the filling to create a snug pocket. Seal the edges well by pressing with the tines of a fork—this step locks in all that luscious jam and gives your Rhubarb Puff-Tart Pockets their signature look.
Step 4: Egg Wash and Sugar Sprinkle
Brush each pocket with beaten egg for that irresistible crust. If you want a sweet crunch, shower the tops with a sprinkle of coarse sugar. It dazzles when baked and makes every bite sparkle.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Arrange the pockets on a parchment-lined baking sheet, keeping them spaced for proper expansion. Slide them into your preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes. They’re ready once they’re puffed, golden, and crisp. Allow them to cool slightly on a rack so the filling sets just enough for the first warm, gooey bite.
Step 6: Make and Drizzle the Glaze (Optional)
While your Rhubarb Puff-Tart Pockets cool, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and a touch of vanilla extract until smooth. When the pastries are cool enough not to melt your glaze, drizzle it over the tops however your heart desires—thick zigzags, dainty lines, or a full-on glaze bath.
How to Serve Rhubarb Puff-Tart Pockets

Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or extra drizzle of glaze brings a touch of elegance. For a brunch-worthy vibe, a few fresh mint leaves or a handful of freeze-dried strawberries can add color and freshness beside your Rhubarb Puff-Tart Pockets.
Side Dishes
Pair these sweet pockets with tangy Greek yogurt, vanilla ice cream, or whipped cream for a dreamy dessert plate. If serving for brunch, a platter of fresh berries or a simple fruit salad adds brightness and balance.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack these treats in a rustic basket lined with a tea towel, or plate them on a tiered stand for a delightful afternoon tea centerpiece. For parties, cut the pastry into smaller squares before baking to create bite-sized “mini Rhubarb Puff-Tart Pockets”—guests will love them!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep unglazed Rhubarb Puff-Tart Pockets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The pastry will stay flaky, and the filling keeps its punchy flavor without getting soggy.
Freezing
Freeze fully baked and cooled pockets (unglazed) in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When a pastry craving strikes, pop them straight from the freezer into a toaster oven; they’ll taste freshly baked within minutes.
Reheating
To restore that oven-fresh crispness, simply reheat Rhubarb Puff-Tart Pockets in a toaster oven or standard oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. The pastry will crisp up, and the filling becomes warm and jammy again—just like new.
FAQs
Can I use frozen rhubarb in the filling?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen rhubarb, let it thaw and drain off any excess moisture. The extra water content can make the filling runny, so take care to cook it down a bit longer for the right jammy consistency.
Can I make these ahead for a brunch or party?
Yes, you can assemble the pockets, store them unbaked in the fridge for a few hours, and bake off fresh when ready to serve. Hold off on the glaze or any garnishes until just before serving for the best presentation and texture.
What if I want a sweeter filling?
If you’d like to dial down the tartness, swap out half the rhubarb for strawberries or add a little extra sugar. Taste the cooked filling before baking—you can always adjust sweetness to your liking.
Do these Rhubarb Puff-Tart Pockets work with other fruit?
Definitely! This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Try swapping in blueberries, blackberries, or finely chopped apples for fun seasonal twists. Just keep the proportions similar for the right texture.
Why did my puff pastry not rise well?
The usual culprit is warm dough or an under-heated oven. Make sure your puff pastry stays cold before baking, and always preheat your oven so the heat can activate those flaky layers instantly.
Final Thoughts
With their sweet-tart burst and flaky pastry, Rhubarb Puff-Tart Pockets are pure joy to bake and share. Give this recipe a try—you may find yourself making them for every spring and summer celebration, or simply for the love of a perfect homemade treat!
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Rhubarb Puff-Tart Pockets Recipe
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 6 pockets 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Rhubarb Puff-Tart Pockets are a delightful treat that combines the tangy flavor of rhubarb with the flaky goodness of puff pastry. They are perfect for a sweet snack or dessert.
Ingredients
Puff-Tart Pockets:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 cup rhubarb, finely chopped
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- coarse sugar for sprinkling (optional)
For the Glaze (optional):
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the filling: In a small saucepan, combine rhubarb, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla, and cinnamon. Cook until thickened and rhubarb softens.
- Assemble the pockets: Roll out puff pastry, cut into rectangles, add filling, fold over, seal edges, brush with egg wash, sprinkle with sugar, and bake.
- Optional glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Drizzle over cooled pastries.
Notes
- Best served fresh but can be reheated in a toaster oven.
- Strawberries can be substituted for part of the rhubarb for a sweeter taste.
- Store unglazed leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pocket
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg