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Irresistibly Tangy Orange Bars

Delicate orange bars with a buttery shortbread crust, offering a perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the crust
  • 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Ensure butter is softened to the correct consistency.
For the filling
  • 4 large eggs
  • 0.5 cup fresh orange juice Freshly squeezed is recommended for the best flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons orange zest Adjust to taste; more zest means bolder flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Gradually stir in the all-purpose flour until just combined; the dough should be crumbly yet hold together.
  4. Spread the buttery dough evenly into a greased 9x13 inch baking pan.
Baking the crust
  1. Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes until golden around the edges.
Preparing the filling
  1. Meanwhile, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, fresh orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Baking the bars
  1. Once the crust is done, pour the orange filling mixture over the hot crust.
  2. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the center is set.
Cooling and serving
  1. Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing them into squares.
  2. For an extra touch, dust each square with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerated for up to a week. Flavors deepen with time.