Orange Bars Recipe

Flour: The base of the bars, providing structure and a slight chewiness.

Vegan butter: A plant-based alternative to regular butter, adding richness and moisture to the base.

Sugar: Used in both the base and the filling to add sweetness.

Orange juice: Freshly squeezed for the best flavor, it gives the bars their signature tangy taste.

Cornstarch: Helps to thicken the filling, ensuring it sets properly.

When preparing the base for your orange bars, ensure that the vegan butter is fully melted and evenly mixed with the flour and sugar. This will create a uniform crust that bakes evenly. For the filling, whisk the orange juice, sugar, and cornstarch thoroughly to avoid any lumps. This will result in a smooth and glossy filling that sets perfectly on top of the base.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, though it may make the bars slightly denser.

• melted vegan butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and consistency, with a subtle coconut flavor.

• sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup is a natural sweetener that adds a rich, complex flavor.

• freshly squeezed orange juice - Substitute with store-bought orange juice: Store-bought orange juice is convenient and often fortified with additional vitamins.

• sugar - Substitute with agave nectar: Agave nectar is a lower glycemic index sweetener, making it a healthier alternative.

• cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder is a natural thickener that works similarly to cornstarch and is often preferred for its neutral flavor.

• Allow the orange bars to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This helps to set the filling and makes them easier to handle.
• Once cooled, cut the orange bars into squares or desired shapes using a sharp knife. Clean the knife between cuts for neat edges.
• To store in the refrigerator, place the orange bars in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be refrigerated for up to 5 days.
• For freezing, wrap each orange bar individually in plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent freezer burn. Then, place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag.
• Label the container or bag with the date to keep track of their storage time. Orange bars can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the orange bars in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. For a quicker option, microwave on a low setting for short intervals until thawed.
• To serve, dust with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or garnish with orange zest for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the orange bars on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the crust's crispiness and the filling's texture.

• Microwave Method: Place a slice of the orange bars on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check and add more time in 10-second increments if needed. Be cautious not to overheat, as the filling can become too soft.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the orange bars on the toaster oven tray. Heat for about 8-10 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they don't overcook. This method is great for small batches and keeps the crust nice and crispy.

• Stovetop Method: If you prefer a quick reheat without an oven or microwave, use a non-stick skillet. Place the orange bars in the skillet over low heat. Cover with a lid to trap the heat and moisture. Heat for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even warming. This method is unconventional but effective for a quick fix.

• Oven: Used to bake the base and the filling at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients for both the base and the filling.

• Whisk: Helps to mix the orange juice, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth for the filling.

• Baking pan: Holds the base and filling mixture while baking.

• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate measurement of ingredients like flour, vegan butter, sugar, orange juice, and cornstarch.

• Spatula: Useful for pressing the base mixture into the baking pan and for scraping down the sides of the mixing bowl.

• Cooling rack: Allows the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares.

• Knife: Used to cut the cooled bars into squares.

• Cutting board: Provides a surface to cut the bars into squares.

Prepare the filling in advance: Mix the orange juice, sugar, and cornstarch ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you're ready to use it.

Use a food processor: Combine the flour, melted vegan butter, and sugar for the base in a food processor to save time on mixing.

Line the baking pan: Use parchment paper to line the baking pan for easy removal and less cleanup.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all your ingredients before starting to streamline the process.