There are desserts that just feel like sunshine on a plate, and these Dreamy Orange Bars are exactly that. Imagine a buttery shortbread crust topped with a sweet, tangy orange filling that’s both refreshing and indulgent. If lemon bars have always been your go-to, this recipe might just convince you that orange deserves the spotlight too.
I first made these bars for a family picnic, and honestly, I wasn’t sure how they’d be received. Lemon bars are the classic choice, after all. But one bite in, and everyone was hooked—the subtle sweetness of the orange pairs beautifully with the buttery base, making them a perfect balance of bright and cozy.
Why You’ll Love These Orange Bars
- Fresh and vibrant flavor: The orange juice and zest give the filling a citrusy punch without being too tart.
- Simple ingredients: Everything on the list is pantry-friendly, and you don’t need any special equipment.
- Great for sharing: Cut into squares, these bars make the perfect little handheld treat for parties, potlucks, or holiday trays.
- A fun twist on a classic: If you love lemon bars, this orange version will feel both familiar and excitingly new.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the crust:
- Unsalted butter
- All-purpose flour
- Granulated sugar
- Salt
For the filling:
- Freshly squeezed orange juice
- Orange zest
- Orange extract (this really boosts the flavor!)
- Granulated sugar
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Eggs
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Tip: If you don’t have orange extract, you can skip it and rely on zest plus juice, but I recommend keeping it in—it really enhances the citrus flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch pan with foil or parchment paper, then lightly grease it. Beat the butter until creamy, then mix in the flour, sugar, and salt until you get a dough. Press this mixture evenly into your pan and bake for about 18 minutes. Tip: Don’t overbake the crust—just let it set and turn slightly golden. It will continue cooking once the filling is added. - Make the filling
While the crust bakes, whisk together the orange juice, zest, extract, sugar, flour, baking powder, and eggs until smooth. You can also use a blender if you want it extra silky. Personal note: I love the aroma at this step—fresh orange zest has a way of making your whole kitchen smell like summer. - Bake the bars
Carefully pour the filling over the hot crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for another 20–23 minutes, or until the top looks set. - Cool and finish
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before dusting generously with powdered sugar. Slice into neat squares or rectangles, and they’re ready to serve.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh juice: Bottled orange juice just doesn’t give the same brightness—squeeze it fresh for the best flavor.
- Chill before cutting: For cleaner slices, pop the pan in the fridge for an hour after cooling.
- Make ahead friendly: These bars keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days, so they’re perfect to bake the day before a gathering.
Serving & Storing
These bars are best served slightly chilled with a dusting of powdered sugar on top. They also travel really well, making them a great choice for potlucks or holiday dessert tables. If you’re storing them, keep them in the fridge to maintain their texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Dreamy Orange Bars are the kind of dessert that brighten any occasion. They’re buttery, tangy, sweet, and refreshingly different from the usual lemon version. Whether you’re making them for a summer picnic, a holiday spread, or just to treat yourself on a cozy afternoon, these bars are guaranteed to impress.