Welcome to my kitchen, where today we’re embracing the vibrant flavors of citrus with a delightful treat: Orange Bars. If you’re a fan of tangy sweetness and crave something refreshing, you’re in for a real treat with this recipe.
Who is This Recipe For?
These Orange Bars are perfect for anyone who loves the zesty taste of oranges and enjoys indulging in homemade desserts. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, need a dessert for a potluck, or simply want to brighten up your day with a citrusy delight, these bars are sure to hit the spot. Plus, they’re so easy to make that even beginner bakers can master them with ease.
Why It’s Great
What makes these Orange Bars stand out is their perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The buttery shortbread crust provides the perfect base for the luscious orange filling, creating a treat that’s both decadent and refreshing. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—you can enjoy them as a dessert, snack, or even a breakfast treat with your morning coffee.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup of powdered sugar
For the filling:
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup of fresh orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
For the topping:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Directions
- Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×9 inch baking pan.
- Make the crust: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the flour and mix until a dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
- Bake the crust: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the filling: In another mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, flour, and salt. Add the eggs, fresh orange juice, and orange zest, and whisk until smooth and well combined.
- Bake the bars: Pour the orange filling over the baked crust, spreading it out evenly. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar and cut into squares. Serve and enjoy!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make these Orange Bars, you’ll need:
- Mixing bowls
- 9×9 inch baking pan
- Whisk
- Zester
How to Store Leftovers
If you somehow manage to have leftovers (though I doubt it!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply let them come to room temperature before serving again.
FAQ
Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh? While fresh orange juice is preferred for the best flavor, you can certainly use bottled orange juice if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to choose a variety that is 100% pure orange juice with no added sugars or preservatives.
Can I use orange extract instead of orange zest? Yes, you can substitute orange extract for the zest if needed. Start with 1/2 teaspoon of orange extract and adjust to taste.
Can I freeze these bars for later? Yes, these bars freeze well. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer. They should last for up to three months.
Food and Drink Pairings
These Orange Bars are delicious on their own, but if you’re looking to enhance the citrusy flavor, try serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture will complement the tangy orange filling perfectly.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy making and savoring these homemade Orange Bars as much as I do. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and be sure to subscribe to my blog for more delicious recipes delivered straight to your inbox. Happy baking!