
Irresistible Grapefruit‑Flavor Extract Citrus Bars
Dolce Flav
9
15 minutes
35 minutes
Grapefruit
These Grapefruit‑Flavor Extract Citrus Bars feature a buttery shortbread crust paired with a zesty, tangy grapefruit filling. The crust is pressed into the pan and baked until lightly golden, then topped with a rich filling blending eggs, sugar, flour, fresh grapefruit zest and juice, plus a bright burst from grapefruit flavor extract. Once baked to a slight jiggle, the bars are cooled, dusted with powdered sugar, and sliced into sunny squares—perfect for brunch, afternoon tea, or as a refreshing dessert.
Ingredients
Crust:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ⅛ tsp salt
Grapefruit Filling:
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- Zest of 1 grapefruit
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
- 1–2 tsp grapefruit flavor extract (ensure natural/organic, use within 0.25%–4% of recipe weight)
Finishing Touch:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Directions
Preheat & Prepare Pan: Set oven to 175 °C (350 °F). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add flour and salt, then mix until just combined. Press the dough evenly into the pan.
Bake Crust: Bake until the edges are set and lightly golden, about 15–18 minutes.
Prepare Grapefruit Filling: While crust bakes, whisk together eggs, sugar, flour, grapefruit zest, grapefruit juice, and grapefruit flavor extract until smooth and fragrant.
Bake Filling: Pour the filling over the hot crust. Return to the oven and bake for another 18–20 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
Cool & Dust: Let the bars cool completely in the pan. Use parchment overhang to lift them out, then dust generously with powdered sugar.
Slice & Serve: Cut into 9 squares and serve—perfect with a cup of tea or a citrusy cocktail.