Orange Slice Cookie Bars
These Orange Slice Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that combine the sweet, citrusy flavor of orange slices with the crunch of chopped pecans. Perfect for gatherings or as a sweet snack, they offer a unique twist on traditional cookie bars that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare sheet cake pan with Crisco and sprinkle with flour.
- Cut up orange slices finely and dredge in part of flour.
- Dip some of your measured flour into orange slices and cut and separate them with fingers.
- Mix together the brown sugar, flour, and salt, then add the orange slices and additional flour.
- Add eggs one at a time, stirring well.
- Spread the mixture with a spatula and floured fingers in the prepared pan.
- Bake for 30 to 40 minutes at 325°F, until light brown on top and dry to the touch.
- Move to a wire rack to cool.
- While still warm, cut into small bars and roll in powdered sugar.
- When completely cool, place in a sealed container to keep.
Tips & Substitutions
For a delightful twist, consider adding a teaspoon of orange zest to enhance the citrus flavor. If pecans are unavailable, walnuts or almonds can be used as substitutes. Ensure the orange slices are finely chopped to distribute their flavor evenly throughout the bars. Mixing the dry ingredients thoroughly before adding the eggs helps achieve a smooth batter, similar to techniques used in recipes like Pistachio Marble Cake.
Serving Suggestions
These orange slice cookie bars make a fantastic dessert on their own, but they also pair well with a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat. Consider serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzling with a bit of maple syrup for extra sweetness. They are perfect for parties or as a delightful addition to a dessert platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. To reheat, place a bar in the microwave for 10-15 seconds just until warm. This will refresh the texture without making them overly soft.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Slice Cookie Bars contains roughly 246 calories, with 3g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 15g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh orange slices instead of candy?
While fresh orange slices can be used, they will result in a different texture and flavor profile. Candy orange slices add sweetness and a chewy texture that complements the cookie bars. If using fresh, consider adding extra sugar to balance the tartness.
What can I do if my bars come out too dry?
If your cookie bars turn out dry, it may be due to overbaking or too much flour. To avoid this in the future, check for doneness a few minutes early and always measure flour accurately. Adding a bit of yogurt or applesauce to the batter can also help maintain moisture.
How can I enhance the flavor of these bars?
For added flavor, consider mixing in spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, which complement the orange well. A splash of vanilla extract can also deepen the sweetness and aroma. For variations, try incorporating chocolate chips or dried cranberries for a unique twist.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).