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Homemade Orange Bars photo

Orange Bars

These Orange Bars are a slice of sunshine! With a buttery crust and zesty orange filling, they're the perfect treat for any occasion.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Crust:
  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
  • 1/2 cup fresh squeezed orange juice
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 1 teaspoon orange extract
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 4 large eggs
  • Powdered sugar for topping

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch Baking Pan
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Whisk
  • Rubber spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Juicer

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
  2. Step 2: Make the Crust - In a mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt, mixing until just combined. Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
  3. Step 3: Prepare the Filling - While the crust is baking, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of flour, and 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder in a bowl. In another bowl, combine the 4 eggs, 1/2 cup of fresh squeezed orange juice, zest of 1 orange, and 1 teaspoon of orange extract. Mix well until combined.
  4. Step 4: Combine and Bake - Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until smooth. Pour the orange filling over the pre-baked crust and return it to the oven. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  5. Step 5: Cool and Dust - Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Dust the top with powdered sugar before cutting into squares.

Notes

  • Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
  • Using a toothpick to check for doneness is key; it should come out clean but not dry.
  • These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.