If you’re searching for a bright, tangy, and delightfully sweet treat, this Orange Bars Recipe is an absolute showstopper. It’s the perfect balance of a buttery crust and a luscious, citrus-infused filling that will brighten any day, whether for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or dessert. Sharing this recipe feels like passing along a treasured secret—a simple yet sensational way to bring sunshine to your kitchen with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, yet each plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect texture and flavor for your orange bars. From the cold butter that creates a flaky crust to the fresh orange zest and juice which make the filling sing with brightness, every element is essential.
- 1 cup butter (cold): Using cold butter helps create a tender and flaky crust that holds up beautifully under the filling.
- 1 cup confectioners sugar: This adds a smooth sweetness to the crust without any graininess.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base structure for both crust and filling; measure carefully for the right texture.
- 4 large eggs (room temperature): Eggs give the filling its richness and help it set perfectly.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Provides balanced sweetness and helps achieve that luscious caramelized top.
- 2/3 cup freshly squeezed orange juice: Fresh juice is key for vibrant citrus flavor – avoid bottled if you can!
- 2 teaspoons orange zest: Intensifies the orange aroma and flavor wonderfully, making these bars really pop.
How to Make Orange Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Crust
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Next, cream together cold butter and confectioners sugar until fluffy, then gradually mix in the flour. Press this buttery mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan, setting up a solid base for those luscious orange bars.
Step 2: Bake the Crust
Bake your pressed crust for 15 to 20 minutes until it reaches a beautiful golden brown. This step creates a sturdy yet tender foundation that crisps up perfectly before you add the filling.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
While the crust bakes, whisk together your eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and pale. Stir in the flour, freshly squeezed orange juice, and fragrant orange zest until everything is well combined. This filling is where all the zesty, sunny flavors come alive.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Pour the bright orange filling evenly over your warm crust, then pop the pan back into the oven. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the filling is set but still jiggles slightly in the center. This careful baking ensures a silky texture without being too runny or firm.
Step 5: Cool and Finish
Allow the bars to cool completely before dusting with a little extra confectioners sugar and slicing. Cooling helps the filling firm up into the perfect bar shape that holds together with every bite.
How to Serve Orange Bars Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of confectioners sugar is the classic finishing touch, but feel free to add a sprinkle of finely grated orange zest or a few fresh mint leaves for color and an extra fresh aroma. It’s amazing how simple garnishes can lift the presentation and make this treat feel extra special.
Side Dishes
Orange bars pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re serving dessert. For a daytime treat, try serving alongside a cup of freshly brewed tea or coffee to complement the bright citrus notes.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting your orange bars into small bite-sized squares for a party platter or drizzle a thin glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice over the top for an elegant finish. Wrapping individual pieces in parchment with a ribbon makes a thoughtful homemade gift that friends and family will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Orange bars keep wonderfully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. After that, storing them in the refrigerator is best to maintain freshness without drying them out.
Freezing
You can freeze these bars for up to three months by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before serving to enjoy that delightful fresh orange flavor.
Reheating
If you prefer your orange bars warm, gently reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 15 seconds or until just warmed through. Avoid overheating to preserve the delicate texture of the filling.
FAQs
Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?
While fresh orange juice provides the best flavor and brightness, you can use bottled juice in a pinch, but it may result in a less vibrant taste. If using bottled, opt for a high-quality, pulp-free variety.
What if I don’t have orange zest? Can I omit it?
The zest adds a punch of citrus aroma and depth that juice alone can’t provide. If you don’t have it, your bars will still taste good but somewhat less fragrant, so try to include it for the best results.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, and your orange bars will still turn out delicious. Just be mindful that texture might vary slightly.
How long should I cool the bars before slicing?
Cooling completely is important—allow at least 1 to 2 hours at room temperature before cutting. This helps the filling set fully, so you get clean, neat slices.
Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?
Definitely! Doubling the ingredients and using a larger pan or two 9×13 pans will work well. Just keep an eye on baking times as they may vary slightly.
Final Thoughts
This Orange Bars Recipe is such a joyful way to bring a burst of sunshine to your table, no matter the occasion. I truly hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful treat as much as I do—it’s a simple recipe with extraordinary flavor that’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
Print
Orange Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-45 minutes
- Total Time: 50-60 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Orange Bars are a delightful citrus treat featuring a buttery crust topped with a tangy, smooth orange-flavored filling. Perfect for any occasion, they combine a crisp base with a luscious, slightly jiggly orange custard topping, finished with a dusting of confectioners sugar for added sweetness and presentation.
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
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easy.
- Make the crust: In a mixing bowl, cream together the cold butter and confectioners sugar until fluffy and well combined. Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour and mix until the dough comes together. Press this dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, forming the crust.
- Bake the crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until it turns golden brown. Remove from oven and set aside.
- Prepare the filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the 4 eggs and granulated sugar until smooth and slightly frothy. Stir in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, freshly squeezed orange juice, and orange zest until fully combined and smooth.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the orange filling mixture evenly over the hot baked crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool and serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, dust the top with confectioners sugar to add a sweet finishing touch. Slice into bars and serve.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is cold for a flaky, tender crust.
- Room temperature eggs help create a smooth filling.
- Fresh orange juice and zest provide strong citrus flavor; bottled juice is not recommended.
- Do not overbake the filling; it should be set but slightly jiggly in the center for the best texture.
- Chill bars before slicing for cleaner cuts.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days.
