Mediterranean Orange Almond Bars
These Mediterranean Orange Almond Bars combine the bright, zesty flavor of oranges with the nutty richness of almonds. Perfect for a cozy winter dessert, they are easy to make and deliver a delicious balance of sweet and tangy flavors that will bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds, for topping
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, melted butter, and salt until crumbly. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond flour, orange juice, orange zest, eggs, and almond extract until smooth.
- Pour the almond batter over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the sliced almonds over the top.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the filling is set and the almonds are lightly toasted.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, lift them out using the parchment overhang and cut into squares.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.