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Fresh Orange Bars Recipe

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3.9 from 21 reviews

  • Author: Amina
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Delight in these zesty Fresh Orange Bars, a perfect balance of tangy orange flavor and sweet buttery crust, topped with a smooth orange glaze. Ideal for a refreshing dessert or snack, these bars are easy to make and sure to brighten your day with every bite.

Ingredients

For the Bars:

  • 1 stick unsalted butter (softened)
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 3/4 cup flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 tablespoons orange zest
  • 2 tablespoons orange juice

For the Glaze:

  • 4 tablespoons orange juice
  • 8 teaspoons orange zest
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking dish lined with parchment paper using butter to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the bars.
  2. Prepare Oranges: Zest and juice the oranges thoroughly, setting both aside carefully, as they will be used separately in the batter and the glaze.
  3. Mix Egg Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, orange zest, and orange juice until well combined and set this mixture aside to integrate the flavors.
  4. Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a mixer, cream the softened butter with sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for the bars.
  5. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add flour and salt to the creamed butter and sugar, mixing just until combined to form a uniform batter without overworking it.
  6. Combine All: Pour the egg and orange mixture into the batter and beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes to fully incorporate and activate volume for a tender texture.
  7. Bake the Bars: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown. Be mindful of oven variations to avoid overbaking and drying out the bars.
  8. Prepare Glaze: While the bars bake, whisk together powdered sugar, the remaining orange zest, and orange juice until smooth and free of lumps to create a luscious glaze.
  9. Glaze the Bars: Once baked, pour the glaze evenly over the warm bars, then place the dish in the refrigerator to allow the glaze to set and harden slightly, enhancing flavor and texture.
  10. Serve and Store: Cut the bars into 8 servings and serve chilled. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and glaze firmness.

Notes

  • Use fresh oranges for zest and juice to maximize flavor and aroma.
  • Do not overbake the bars as they can become dry; check for golden edges as your cue.
  • Line the baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal and cleaner edges.
  • The glaze sets best when chilled; allow sufficient cooling time in the refrigerator.
  • These bars are best enjoyed within a few days for optimal freshness.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://aminabakes.com/fresh-orange-bars-recipe/