If you are searching for a bright, zesty treat that feels like sunshine on a plate, this Orange Bars Recipe is simply irresistible. These bars combine a buttery, golden crust with a luscious, tangy orange filling that strikes the perfect balance of sweet and citrusy. Whether you want a cheerful dessert to brighten your afternoon tea or a crowd-pleasing snack, this recipe delivers a delightful burst of flavor in every bite. It’s one of those treasures that feels both comforting and refreshingly light, making it a personal favorite to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Orange Bars Recipe lies in its simplicity: just a handful of ingredients that come together to create layers of flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the rich butter in the crust to the fresh orange juice and zest that give the filling its vibrant character.
- Cold butter (1 cup): Provides a flaky, tender base with a rich, buttery flavor that complements the citrus topping perfectly.
- Confectioners sugar (1 cup): Adds a sweet, smooth finish to the crust and a light dusting on top for a delicate sweetness.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups plus extra for filling): Gives structure to both the crust and filling, creating a perfect balance between soft and firm.
- Large eggs (4, room temperature): Bind the filling ingredients and add a luscious texture that sets beautifully in the oven.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the bright orange filling without overpowering the natural citrus flavor.
- Freshly squeezed orange juice (2/3 cup): Infuses the filling with fresh, tangy orange essence for an authentic taste of the fruit.
- Orange zest (2 teaspoons): Intensifies the orange flavor with fragrant oils, adding an extra layer of citrus punch.
How to Make Orange Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper so that you can easily lift the baked bars out once they are done. This simple preparation step ensures a smooth baking process and perfect bar shapes.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a mixing bowl, cream together the cold butter and confectioners sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This creates the foundation of your bars—rich and tender. Gradually add in the flour, mixing just enough to combine, then press the dough firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. The crust will bake up golden and slightly crisp, providing a lovely contrast to the filling.
Step 3: Bake the Crust
Bake the crust for 15 to 20 minutes until it turns a beautiful golden brown. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking, as you want a firm but tender base to support the luscious orange topping.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
While the crust is baking, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar in a separate bowl until smooth and fully combined. This step is crucial for a silky filling texture. Next, stir in flour, fresh orange juice, and orange zest until everything is just blended together, preserving the bright orange color and flavor.
Step 5: Bake with the Filling
Pour the orange filling evenly over the warm crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes. The filling should be mostly set but still have a slight jiggle in the center, indicating a tender and creamy consistency.
Step 6: Cool and Finish
Allow the orange bars to cool completely in the pan, which helps the filling firm up more for clean slicing. Once cooled, dust the top with confectioners sugar for an elegant, sweet finish that also adds a lovely visual touch.
How to Serve Orange Bars Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, sprinkle some additional orange zest on top of the bars along with the confectioners sugar just before serving. Fresh mint leaves also provide a lovely complementary flavor and a burst of green that makes these bars look as joyful as they taste.
Side Dishes
If you’re serving these bars at a gathering or alongside a meal, they pair beautifully with light options such as a cup of herbal tea or a refreshing citrus salad. Whipped cream or a dollop of vanilla yogurt also adds softness and creaminess without overshadowing the bright orange notes.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the bars into bite-sized squares and placing them on a decorative platter with some whole orange slices or edible flowers. For a picnic or potluck, pack the bars individually in cute parchment paper wraps to make sharing easy and mess-free.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, you can store leftover orange bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate them for up to 4 days to keep them fresh. The citrus flavor actually deepens after resting, so leftovers might be even better!
Freezing
Orange bars freeze wonderfully. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing their texture or flavor. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for the best results.
Reheating
To enjoy these bars warm, reheat slices gently in the oven at low heat, about 275°F (135°C) for 5 to 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you want to maintain the crust’s crisp texture, but if pressed for time, a quick 20-second zap can help revive the softness of the filling.
FAQs
Can I use orange extract instead of fresh orange juice?
While orange extract provides flavor, fresh orange juice gives a fresher and more natural citrus brightness essential to this Orange Bars Recipe. Using fresh juice also adds a slight acidity that balances the sweetness perfectly.
What type of pan is best for baking these bars?
A 9×13 inch baking pan lined with parchment paper is ideal. The size ensures the bars have the right thickness and bake evenly. The parchment also makes removing and slicing the bars much easier.
Can I substitute some of the flour with almond flour?
You can replace a small portion of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a nuttier flavor and slightly softer texture. However, too much almond flour may affect the structure and how well the bars set.
Are orange bars gluten-free if I use gluten-free flour?
Yes! You can adapt the recipe by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that works well for baking. Just make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder to help provide structure.
How do I know when the filling is perfectly baked?
The filling should look set at the edges but still have a slight jiggle in the center when you gently shake the pan. It will firm up more as it cools, giving you a creamy yet firm slice.
Final Thoughts
This Orange Bars Recipe is a delightful way to celebrate the natural brightness of orange with a buttery base and smooth, tangy filling. It’s simple to make yet impressive to serve, perfect for both everyday treats and special occasions. Once you try it, I’m sure it will become one of your favorite go-to recipes whenever you want to brighten up your dessert table or snack time.
Print
Orange Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Orange Bars are a delightful citrus treat featuring a buttery shortbread crust topped with a tangy, sweet orange filling. Perfectly balanced with fresh orange juice and zest, they offer a refreshing twist on classic dessert bars, ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
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
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the bars.
- Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, cream together the cold butter and confectioners sugar until the mixture is fluffy. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the surface turns golden brown, indicating it is baked through and ready for the filling.
- Prepare the Filling: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until smooth and well combined. Stir in the flour, freshly squeezed orange juice, and orange zest until the filling mixture is consistent.
- Add Filling and Bake: Pour the prepared orange filling over the baked crust and return the pan to the oven. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center, ensuring a moist and creamy texture.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the orange bars to cool completely to room temperature. Once cooled, dust the top with confectioners sugar for a decorative and sweet finishing touch. Slice into bars and serve.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh oranges for juicing and zesting.
- Make sure the butter is cold when mixing the crust for a flaky texture.
- Do not overbake the filling; it should be slightly jiggly to maintain moisture.
- Allow bars to cool fully before slicing to prevent crumbling.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
