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Irresistible Grapefruit‑Flavor Extract Citrus Bars
Dolce Flav
Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users
Category
Grapefruit
Author:
Dolce Flav
Servings
9
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
35 minutes
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:
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½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
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½ cup granulated sugar
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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⅛ tsp salt
Grapefruit Filling:
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2 large eggs
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¾ cup granulated sugar
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3 Tbsp all-purpose flour
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Zest of 1 grapefruit
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¼ cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
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1–2 tsp grapefruit flavor extract (ensure natural/organic, use within 0.25%–4% of recipe weight)
Finishing Touch:
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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.
Recipe Note
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I skip the grapefruit extract?
Yes—these bars will still taste delightfully citrusy from fresh juice and zest, though the extract adds extra aroma and punch.
How much extract should I use?
A starting range is 0.25% to 4% of the total recipe weight—usually about 1–2 teaspoons for this batch.
What types of grapefruit extract work best?
Use natural or organic grapefruit extract for authentic flavor and clean ingredients.
Can I use frozen juice or bottled juice?
Fresh juice is best for bright flavor, but bottled juice may work in a pinch—just adjust sweetness accordingly.
How do I store these bars?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days, or refrigerated up to a week.
Can they be frozen?
Yes—freeze in layers separated by parchment paper for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Can I use a different citrus, like lemon or lime?
Absolutely—swap in lemon or lime zest/juice plus a corresponding extract to create new citrus variations.
Are these bars gluten-free adaptable?
Use a 1:1 gluten‑free flour blend to make them gluten‑free—texture may shift slightly, but they’ll still be delicious.
How do I get a cleaner cut?
Chill the bars for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Use a warm, sharp knife cleaned between cuts for clean edges.
Can I add a glaze instead of powdered sugar?
Yes—drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and grapefruit juice (1:1 ratio, thin with more juice as needed) to intensify the citrus look and flavor.