TORQ Carb-Load Dessert Rhubarb & Custard vs Apple Crumble: Which Pre-Race Flavour Wins?

Carb-loading the night before an endurance event is a time-honored tradition, but it doesn't have to be bland pasta or plain rice. TORQ’s Carb-Load Dessert range lets you indulge your sweet tooth while packing in the glycogen stores. Two standout flavours — Rhubarb & Custard and Apple Crumble — have become fan favorites. But which one should you choose for your pre-race meal? We break down the taste, texture, nutrition, and real-world performance to help you decide.

Both desserts are designed to provide a high-carb, low-fat, low-fiber meal that sits easily on the stomach. But subtle differences in flavour profile and ingredient composition might make one a better fit for your palate and race-day strategy. Let’s dive into the details.

Flavour Face-Off: Rhubarb & Custard vs Apple Crumble

Rhubarb & Custard is a nostalgic combination that balances tart rhubarb with creamy, sweet custard. The tartness cuts through the sweetness, making it less cloying than some other dessert options. Many athletes find this flavour refreshing and less likely to cause palate fatigue, which can be crucial when you’re eating a large portion the night before a race. The custard base also adds a smooth, comforting mouthfeel that feels indulgent without being heavy.

Apple Crumble, on the other hand, delivers a classic homestyle taste with sweet apple notes and a hint of cinnamon. It’s slightly sweeter overall, with a more consistent texture that mimics the fruit-and-crumble topping of the traditional dessert. For those who prefer a familiar, dessert-like experience, Apple Crumble is a crowd-pleaser. It pairs exceptionally well with a dollop of yogurt or a splash of milk, if you want to vary the consistency.

• Tip: If you have a sensitive stomach, try a small serving of Rhubarb & Custard first — its tartness can aid digestion for some athletes.

Nutritional Breakdown: Both Are Built for Carb Loading

Nutritionally, both flavours are nearly identical — which is exactly what you want in a pre-race dessert. Each 100g serving provides around 80-85g of carbohydrates, primarily from maltodextrin and sugar, with minimal fat (under 1g) and negligible fiber. This ensures rapid digestion and glycogen storage without gastrointestinal distress. The protein content is low (around 2g per serving), as the goal is to maximize carbs, not protein.

The key difference lies in the fruit content: Rhubarb & Custard contains real rhubarb puree, while Apple Crumble uses apple puree. This may affect micronutrient profiles slightly — rhubarb is a good source of vitamin K and calcium, while apples provide vitamin C and antioxidants. However, for carb-loading purposes, these differences are minor. Both products are gluten-free and suitable for vegetarians.

• Tip: Pair your TORQ Carb-Load Dessert with a Build-a-Box of Recovery Sachets the next morning for optimal post-race recovery.

Texture and Preparation: Which Is Easier to Eat?

Both desserts come in a ready-to-eat sachet that can be heated in hot water or microwaved. Rhubarb & Custard has a slightly thinner, more pourable consistency — think a warm custard with soft fruit pieces. This makes it easy to eat quickly, which is handy when you’re trying to consume a large volume of carbs. Some athletes even use it as a topping for porridge or pancakes.

Apple Crumble is thicker, with a chunkier texture that mimics real apple pieces and a slight crumble effect. It feels more like a traditional dessert and may be more satisfying to eat slowly. If you struggle with the volume of carb-loading, the thicker texture might feel more like a meal than a drink, helping you feel fuller without overloading your stomach.

• Tip: For a colder option, refrigerate the prepared dessert and eat it like a pudding — great for hot summer pre-race evenings.

Which Flavour Should You Choose?

Your choice ultimately comes down to personal taste and how your stomach handles different flavours. If you prefer a tart, less sweet option that goes down easily, Rhubarb & Custard is your best bet. It’s especially good for athletes who find sweet flavours overwhelming before a race. The lighter consistency also makes it a great base for adding extra carbs like honey or dextrose if you need a higher calorie load.

If you crave a classic, comforting dessert that feels like a real treat, Apple Crumble wins. Its familiar taste can be a psychological boost before a big event, and the thicker texture may help you feel more satisfied. Many athletes report that Apple Crumble pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream (if you can tolerate dairy) for an extra indulgent pre-race meal.

• Tip: Try both flavours in small portions during training to see which sits best before your next long ride or run.

Whether you choose the tangy nostalgia of Rhubarb & Custard or the classic comfort of Apple Crumble, TORQ Carb-Load Desserts are a delicious and effective way to top off your glycogen stores. Experiment during training to find your perfect pre-race fuel, and enjoy the process of carb-loading without the blandness. For more options, explore the full range of TORQ Food & Desserts to discover other flavours that might become your new race-eve ritual.