Vibrant Grapefruit Citrus Bars (Print)

Soft buttery crust meets tangy grapefruit custard in these vibrant citrus bars, perfectly balanced between sweet and tart flavors.

# Ingredient List:

→ Shortbread Crust

01 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 - ½ cup granulated sugar
03 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
04 - ¼ teaspoon salt

→ Grapefruit Filling

05 - 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
06 - ¼ cup all-purpose flour
07 - 4 large eggs
08 - ¾ cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
09 - 1 tablespoon grapefruit zest
10 - 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

→ Finishing

11 - Powdered sugar for dusting

# How-To Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing overhang for easy removal of the bars.
02 - Cream together softened butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Mix in flour and salt until just combined.
03 - Evenly press the dough into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
04 - Whisk together sugar and flour in a separate bowl. Add eggs, grapefruit juice, grapefruit zest, and lemon juice. Whisk until smooth and fully incorporated.
05 - Pour the filling mixture over the hot crust immediately after removing it from the oven.
06 - Return the pan to the oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes until the center is just set and does not jiggle excessively.
07 - Let cool completely in the pan. Using the parchment overhang, lift the bars out and cut into squares.
08 - Dust generously with powdered sugar just before serving.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The buttery shortbread crust creates the perfect foundation for the bright, tangy filling
  • These bars strike that magical balance between sweet and tart that keeps everyone coming back for seconds
02 -
  • Pour the filling over the hot crust immediately after it comes out of the oven
  • The center should not jiggle excessively when done baking
03 -
  • For cleaner cuts, wipe your knife clean between each slice
  • Let the bars come to room temperature before removing from the parchment to prevent sticking

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