Name: Orange Bars Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-491989H49M33S
Total time: PT-491989H49M33S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup cold butter; 1 cup confectioners sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 4 large eggs (room temperature); 1 cup granulated sugar; 2/3 cup freshly squeezed orange juice; 2 teaspoons orange zest; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for filling)

Description

These vibrant Orange Bars combine a buttery, tender crust with a tangy and luscious orange-flavored custard topping. Perfectly balanced with fresh orange juice and zest, they offer a refreshing citrus twist on a classic bar dessert, ideal for any occasion or a delightful snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

1 cup cold butter
1 cup confectioners sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour

Orange Filling

4 large eggs (room temperature)
1 cup granulated sugar
2/3 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
2 teaspoons orange zest
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for filling)

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Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow easy removal of the bars.
Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, cream the cold butter and confectioners sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour and press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust layer.
Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until it is golden brown and firm to the touch. Remove from oven and set aside.
Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour, freshly squeezed orange juice, and orange zest until evenly incorporated.
Assemble and Bake: Pour the orange filling over the baked crust, spreading it evenly. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes. The filling should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, dust the top with confectioners sugar for a delicate finish. Cut into 12 squares and serve.

Notes

For best results, use fresh orange juice and zest to maximize flavor.
Ensure the butter is cold when mixing the crust for a tender, flaky base.
Allow the bars to cool fully before slicing to prevent breaking.
Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.