If you’re looking to delight your taste buds with a zesty dessert, these 35-Minute Orange-Amaretto Citrus Bars are the perfect treat! With vibrant citrus flavors combined with the rich nuttiness of amaretto, this recipe is a must-try. Let’s dive right into it!
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create these luscious bars:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
- 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
- 1/4 cup amaretto liqueur
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
Let’s get started on making these delightful citrus bars!
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing it to hang over the edges for easy removal later.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, softened butter, and salt. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan in an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, until lightly golden.
- While the crust is baking, prepare the filling. In another bowl, whisk together the fresh orange juice, eggs, 1 cup sugar, orange zest, amaretto, and baking powder until smooth.
- Once the crust is done, remove it from the oven. Pour the filling over the hot crust. Bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly browned.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan and place them on a cutting board.
- Dust the top with powdered sugar (if desired) and cut into squares.
Enjoy Your Orange-Amaretto Citrus Bars!
These citrus bars are perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck, or simply a sweet treat for yourself. The balance of sweet and tart, along with the hint of amaretto, is sure to impress. Serve chilled or at room temperature and watch them disappear!
