Description
Brighten up your dessert table with these zesty and sweet Pink Grapefruit Dessert Bars! A buttery shortbread crust pairs perfectly with a luscious grapefruit filling, creating a treat that’s as refreshing as it is indulgent. Dust them with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance, and watch them disappear at any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
For the Filling:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup fresh pink grapefruit juice (from 1–2 grapefruits)
- 1 tablespoon pink grapefruit zest
Optional Toppings:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Grapefruit slices or zest for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
In a medium bowl, mix the flour and sugar. Add the cold butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 15–18 minutes or until lightly golden. Let it cool slightly. - Make the Filling:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, flour, and salt until smooth. Add the pink grapefruit juice and zest, mixing well. - Assemble and Bake:
Pour the filling over the slightly cooled crust. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the filling is set and no longer jiggles in the center. - Cool and Garnish:
Allow the dessert bars to cool completely in the pan. For best results, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with grapefruit slices or zest if desired.
Notes
- Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing Tips: Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for both the crust and filling.
- Citrus Swaps: Experiment with lemon, lime, or orange juice for a different flavor twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American