Description
Delight in these zesty Orange Bars featuring a buttery, crisp base topped with a luscious orange-infused custard layer. Perfectly balanced sweetness and vibrant citrus flavors make this dessert a refreshing treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 cup cold butter
- 1 cup confectioners sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
Filling
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 2 teaspoons orange zest
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Make Crust: In a mixing bowl, cream the cold butter together with the confectioners sugar until the mixture is fluffy and light. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, blending it in until a smooth dough forms. Press this dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- Bake Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until it turns a lovely golden brown, signaling it is perfectly baked and crisp.
- Prepare Filling: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened. Stir in the flour, freshly squeezed orange juice, and orange zest until fully combined to create the filling.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the orange filling mixture evenly over the baked crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the filling is set but still has a slight jiggle in the center, indicating it is perfectly cooked but moist.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan to let the filling set firmly. Once cooled, dust the top with confectioners sugar and slice into 12 generous pieces ready to enjoy.
Notes
- For best results, ensure butter is cold when making the crust for a tender, flaky base.
- Use fresh oranges for juicing and zesting to maximize citrus flavor.
- The filling should be slightly jiggly upon removing from the oven; it will firm up while cooling.
- These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- Dusting with confectioners sugar is optional but adds a lovely finishing touch and sweetness.
