Orange Bars Recipe Easy and Delicious Citrus Dessert

There’s something irresistibly bright and refreshing about the zesty flavor of oranges, especially when transformed into a delightful dessert. Orange bars combine the perfect balance of tangy citrus and sweet richness, creating a treat that’s both comforting and invigorating.

Whether you’re looking for a refreshing twist on classic lemon bars or simply craving a sweet bite with a hint of sunshine, this orange bars recipe is guaranteed to hit the spot. From the buttery crust to the luscious orange filling, every bite bursts with vibrant flavor and satisfying texture.

Perfect for a cozy afternoon snack, a festive brunch, or a crowd-pleasing dessert, these bars are easy to make and beautifully versatile. In this post, I’ll guide you through a foolproof recipe for orange bars that will become a staple in your baking repertoire.

So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this citrusy delight!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These orange bars are a delightful mix of sweet and tart, offering a refreshing change from traditional desserts. The buttery shortbread crust provides a sturdy yet tender base, while the orange custard-like filling is smooth and packed with fresh citrus flavor.

They’re not overly sweet, making them perfect for those who appreciate a more balanced dessert.

Additionally, this recipe is straightforward, requiring common ingredients and simple kitchen equipment. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, you’ll find these bars easy to put together.

Plus, they store well and actually taste better the next day, making them perfect for prepping ahead of time.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 2-3 oranges)
• 2 tablespoons orange zest (from about 2 oranges)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Equipment

• 9×9-inch baking pan (or similar size square pan)
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or hand whisk
• Microplane or zester for orange zest
• Citrus juicer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Cooling rack
• Parchment paper or non-stick spray

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later, or lightly grease the pan.
2. Make the crust: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups flour, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Use the bottom of a glass or your hands to compact it firmly. Bake for about 18-20 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from oven and set aside.
4. Prepare the filling: In a bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons flour, baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking until smooth and fully incorporated.
5. Mix in fresh orange juice and zest until well combined. This mixture will be slightly runny but don’t worry; it will set beautifully in the oven.
6. Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
7. Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up further, making it easier to slice.
8. Cut into bars using the parchment overhang to lift the entire slab out of the pan. Slice into squares or rectangles as desired. Dust with powdered sugar before serving if you like a touch of extra sweetness.

Tips & Variations

For an extra burst of citrus aroma, try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of ground ginger to the filling.

You can also experiment with different citrus fruits like blood oranges or tangerines for a unique flavor profile. If you prefer a nutty crust, substitute 1/4 cup of the flour with finely ground almonds or pecans.

For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for both the crust and filling. Just be sure to check the baking time as it might vary slightly.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Orange bars are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. Enjoy them on their own with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a simple afternoon treat.

For a more indulgent dessert, serve alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

You can also garnish with fresh orange slices or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for added texture and visual appeal. These bars work beautifully for brunch spreads or as a refreshing finish to a summer meal.

Conclusion

Orange bars are a delightful and refreshing dessert that brings together the perfect harmony of tangy citrus and sweet, buttery goodness. This recipe is approachable, requiring simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it an excellent choice for bakers of all skill levels.

The vibrant orange flavor brightens up any occasion, and the tender crust provides a satisfying base that complements the filling beautifully.

Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, these bars are sure to become a favorite. Plus, they store well and taste just as delicious the next day, making them ideal for meal prepping or sharing.

Give this recipe a try and add a burst of sunshine to your dessert table!

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