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+ servings
Orange Bars

Zesty Orange Bars: Sunshine in Every Delicious Bite

Delight in these Orange Bars, where zesty citrus meets a buttery crust, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 16 squares
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

For the Crust
  • 1 cup All-purpose flour Substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
  • 1/2 cup Granulated sugar Consider coconut sugar for a healthier option.
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted butter, melted Can be replaced with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
  • 2 large Eggs Use flax eggs for a vegan alternative.
For the Filling
  • 1/2 cup Fresh orange juice Fresh juice is best for vibrant taste.
  • 1 tbsp Orange zest Use only the outer peel, avoiding the bitter pith.
  • 1 tsp Vanilla extract Almond extract can offer a unique twist.
  • 2 tbsp Cornstarch Arrowroot powder can work as a substitute.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking pan
  • Mixing Bowls
  • whisk
  • Spatula
  • Wire Rack

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Orange Bars
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking pan by greasing it and lining with parchment paper.
  2. Combine flour, sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl. In another bowl, whisk melted butter and eggs, then mix with dry ingredients.
  3. Spread the crust mixture evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 15–20 minutes until lightly golden.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar and cornstarch, then add orange juice, zest, eggs, and vanilla; mix until smooth.
  5. Pour the filling over the baked crust and swirl gently, then return to the oven for 25–35 minutes until set.
  6. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
  7. Whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest to make the glaze.
  8. Once cooled, glaze the bars and let set before slicing into squares.

Nutrition

Serving: 1squareCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 80mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

Use fresh oranges for best flavor. Store in an airtight container; refrigerate for longer freshness.

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