The Bean Counter at the Kitchen Counter: Citrus Bars

Monday, June 4, 2012

Citrus Bars

It was the last week of school and a teacher treat was in order. My teacher husband requested something fruity. After shuffling through several recipe clippings we settled on this recipe for Citrus Bars. It is reminiscent of the traditional lemon bars but with an extra twist and a little different take on the crust. We love lemon bars, but these are a nice variation that will go in the keeper file.

It's okay to play with your food!

Citrus Bars

1 cup butter, softened

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, divided

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1/2 cup finely chopped pecans

1 3/4 cups granulated sugar

1/3 cup fresh lemon juice

1/3 cup fresh orange juice

1 teaspoon finely grated orange rind

4 large eggs, beaten

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

Beat butter at medium speed until creamy. Add 2 cups of flour and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar. Continue beating until mixture forms a soft dough. Stir in chopped pecans. Press evenly in a lightly greased 13- x 9-inch pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes or until just lightly browned.

While crust is cooling, whisk together the final 1/4 cup of flour and the granulated sugar. Stir in remaining ingredients until smooth and pour over crust. Return to 350 degree oven and bake 30-35 minutes until set. Cool in the pan on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar.

And going ...