There’s something irresistibly delightful about biting into a freshly baked orange bar, with its zesty citrus aroma wafting through the kitchen. The perfect balance of sweet and tart, these little squares are like sunshine on a plate, making them an ideal treat for any occasion. No Bake Firecracker Cheesecake Whether it’s a sunny afternoon picnic or a cozy evening at home, you can’t help but smile as you savor each bite.
I still remember the first time I tasted orange bars at my aunt’s summer BBQ. The tangy flavor danced on my tongue as I watched my cousins fight over the last piece. I vowed then and there to recreate that magic in my own kitchen. Blueberry Cream Pie Bars Fast forward to today, and I’m thrilled to share this Orange Bars Recipe with you—a delightful blend of flavors that will make your taste buds sing!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These orange bars are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Each bite bursts with vibrant citrus flavor and a buttery crust that melts in your mouth.
- Their eye-catching golden color adds a stunning touch to any dessert table.
- Enjoy them as a refreshing snack or dress them up for special occasions—either way, they’re a hit!
Ingredients for Orange Bars Recipe
For more inspiration, check out this Trisha Yearwood’s Butterscotch Bars recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: This is the backbone of your crust and filling; choose unbleached for the best texture.
- Granulated Sugar: You’ll need sugar for sweetness; feel free to adjust based on your preference!
- Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness in your recipe.
- Fresh Oranges: Zest and juice these beauties for maximum flavor in both the filling and glaze.
- Eggs: They help bind everything together for that perfect custardy texture.
- Baking Powder: A must for giving your bars that light, fluffy lift.
For the Glaze:
- Powdered Sugar: This creates a smooth glaze that adds sweetness without overpowering.
- Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed juice enhances the flavor of your glaze significantly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Orange Bars Recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, and flour until crumbly. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for about 15 minutes until lightly golden.
Step 3: Whisk Together Filling
While the crust bakes, whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, fresh orange juice, zest, baking powder, and flour until smooth and combined.
Step 4: Pour Over Baked Crust
Once your crust has cooled slightly, pour the orange filling over it evenly. Return it to the oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes until it’s set but still jiggly in the center.
Step 5: Cool and Glaze
Allow the bars to cool completely in their pan. Once cool, mix powdered sugar with enough orange juice to reach your desired glaze consistency. Drizzle it over the top of the cooled bars.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Cut into squares once fully set. Transfer to plates or serve straight from the pan—no one will judge! Enjoy these delightful treats at room temperature or chilled.
These Orange Bars are sure to become a favorite dessert that brightens up any gathering! So grab those ingredients and let’s get baking!
You Must Know
- This delightful orange bars recipe brings a zesty twist to your dessert table.
- With its vibrant flavor and fluffy texture, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
- Not only is it easy to whip up, but it also makes for an impressive presentation at any gathering.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while you prepare the crust. Mix the ingredients for the base and press them into the pan. Bake it until golden, then combine eggs, sugar, and freshly squeezed orange juice for that delicious topping.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in lemon juice for a different citrus zing or add a sprinkle of coconut for extra texture. You could even throw in some poppy seeds for a fun crunch! Make this orange bars recipe uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover orange bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. For best results, enjoy them chilled straight from the fridge or let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always zest your oranges before juicing; it adds incredible flavor!
- Ensure your butter is softened but not melted for the perfect crust texture.
- Lastly, let these beauties cool completely before cutting to avoid messy slices!
It was my sister’s birthday when I first made this orange bars recipe. The look on her face when she took that first bite was priceless—a mix of surprise and utter joy!
FAQs :
What is the main ingredient in the Orange Bars Recipe?
The main ingredient in the Orange Bars Recipe is fresh oranges. Their zest and juice add a vibrant flavor that makes these bars refreshing and delicious. You can use both navel oranges and blood oranges for a unique twist. Patriotic Popsicles The orange zest enhances the bars’ aroma, while the juice provides the necessary moisture, making them soft and chewy. Using fresh ingredients will elevate your dessert and ensure a delightful taste in every bite.
Can I substitute other fruits in the Orange Bars Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute other fruits in the Orange Bars Recipe if you want to explore different flavors. For example, lemons or limes can work well, providing a tangy twist. Additionally, you might consider using berries like blueberries or raspberries for a fruity variation. Just remember that changing the fruit may alter the sweetness and acidity of the bars slightly, so adjust sugar accordingly to achieve your desired taste.
How do I store leftover Orange Bars?
To store leftover Orange Bars, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. For extended storage, consider freezing them; wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Can I make the Orange Bars Recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can easily make the Orange Bars Recipe gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour. Many blends are designed specifically for baking and will yield similar results without compromising texture or flavor. Grilled Peach Caprese Salad Be sure to check that all other ingredients used are also gluten-free to maintain dietary requirements while enjoying these delightful treats.
Conclusion for Orange Bars Recipe :
In conclusion, this Orange Bars Recipe is not only simple to prepare but also offers a burst of citrus goodness that everyone will love. With fresh oranges as the star ingredient, these bars are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family gathering or just a sweet treat after dinner. Remember to store leftovers properly and feel free to experiment with different fruits for added variety. Enjoy making this delightful dessert that brightens up any day!
Orange Bars
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
Description
Orange bars are a delightful dessert that perfectly balances zesty citrus flavors with a buttery, crumbly crust. These sweet and tangy squares are incredibly easy to make and are sure to brighten any gathering, from picnics to cozy family dinners. With fresh orange juice and zest infusing each bite, these bars offer a refreshing treat that’s both satisfying and uplifting.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 4 large eggs
- Zest of 2 fresh oranges
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 tsp baking powder
- For the glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
Instructions
- 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.
- 2. In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, flour, and granulated sugar until crumbly. Press into the bottom of the pan and bake for about 15 minutes until lightly golden.
- 3. While the crust bakes, whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, orange juice, zest, baking powder, and flour until smooth.
- 4. Once the crust cools slightly, pour the filling over it and bake for another 20-25 minutes until set but jiggly in the center.
- 5. Cool completely in the pan before mixing powdered sugar with orange juice for glaze consistency—drizzle over cooled bars.
- 6. Slice into squares and serve at room temperature or chilled.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (56g)
- Calories: 161
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 54mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 37mg
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