Orange Dream Bars
Orange Dream Bars — this easy recipe is like a lemon bar but using orange! The perfect citrus recipe, tart and sweet with a shortbread crust.
Orange Dream Bars — this easy recipe is like a lemon bar but using orange! The perfect citrus recipe, tart and sweet with a shortbread crust.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 cup all purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups all purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- powdered sugar for topping
- 1/2 cup fresh squeezed orange juice (i used mandarins about 6 of them)
- Carbohydrate 10.2043260067053 g
- Cholesterol 98.3963889059565 mg
- Fat 12.3012582233545 g
- Fiber 0.323546765569007 g
- Protein 3.73570402768905 g
- Saturated Fat 7.06100865475141 g
- Serving Size 1 1 bar (55g)
- Sodium 37.9035819591708 mg
- Sugar 9.8807792411363 g
- Trans Fat 1.1868285345418 g
- Calories 165 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 350F.
- Line a 9x13" pan with foil or parchment paper and spray with nonstick cooking spray.
- Beat butter with a hand or a stand mixer until creamy, then add the flour, sugar, and salt and beat until a dough forms. (If you’re using a hand mixer it will take extra time.)
- Press the crust into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake for 18 minutes.
- A few minutes before the crust comes out of the oven, prepare the filling.
- Place all filling ingredients into a blender jar and blend until smooth, a few seconds to almost a minute, depending on your blender.
- Carefully pour filling over evenly over hot crust.
- Return to oven and bake until the top is no longer jiggly, about 20-23 minutes.
- Cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar and slicing into bars.
My Sunshine on a Plate: Orange Dream Bars
As a busy mom, finding time to bake is a luxury, but when I do, it has to be worth it. These Orange Dream Bars are my go-to recipe when I want something both impressive and incredibly easy. The name itself evokes a feeling of bright, sunny days and pure joy, and that's exactly what these bars deliver. They're a delightful twist on classic lemon bars, replacing the sharp tang of lemon with the bright, sweet zest of oranges.
The secret to these bars lies in the perfect balance of flavors. The shortbread crust, buttery and slightly sweet, provides a wonderful foundation for the vibrant orange filling. The filling itself is a creamy, dreamy blend of orange juice (I prefer mandarins for their intense flavor), eggs, sugar, and a hint of zest. It's not overly sweet, which allows the natural citrus flavor to shine through. The texture is incredible—perfectly smooth and creamy, yet holds its shape beautifully. The powdered sugar dusting adds the finishing touch, creating a visually appealing and delicious contrast to the vibrant orange color underneath.
I often make a double batch. One pan stays at home, ready for an impromptu snack or dessert after dinner, perfect for satisfying those late-afternoon cravings. The other pan gets packed up for potlucks, bake sales, or even just to share with friends and neighbors. They’re always a hit. The recipe is simple enough for even novice bakers to tackle, and the results are consistently stunning. Seriously, the compliments will pour in!
What I love most about these Orange Dream Bars is their versatility. They’re perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight gatherings to elegant parties. They're equally delicious served warm or at room temperature, and they hold up well for a couple of days if stored properly (though I doubt they’ll last that long!).
Beyond the ease of preparation and the delightful taste, these bars offer a sense of accomplishment. There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating something delicious from scratch, especially when it brings such joy to others. The aroma of baking oranges fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting fragrance – a true testament to the magic of homemade treats.
Making these Orange Dream Bars is more than just baking; it's an act of love and sharing. It's a way to brighten someone's day, one delicious, citrusy bite at a time. So next time you're looking for a simple yet extraordinary dessert, look no further. These Orange Dream Bars are the answer.
Tips and Variations:
- For an extra zesty kick, add a tablespoon of orange liqueur to the filling.
- Try using different citrus fruits, such as grapefruit or mandarins, for a unique flavor profile.
- If you don't have fresh orange juice, you can substitute with bottled juice, but fresh is always best.
- Garnish with fresh orange slices or candied orange peel for an extra touch of elegance.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
This recipe isn't just about creating a delicious dessert; it's about creating memories and sharing joy. It's about the warm feeling of baking in the kitchen, the satisfying scent of freshly baked goods, and the pleasure of sharing something homemade with loved ones. So go ahead, make a batch of these Orange Dream Bars and experience the magic for yourself. You won't be disappointed.
