Indulge in the zesty and delightful flavors of orange paired with the slight crunch of poppy seeds in these perfectly glazed bars. Perfect for a refreshing treat any time of the day, these bars offer a unique twist to your standard dessert.
Photos of Glazed Orange Poppy Seed Bars Recipe
When heading to the supermarket, ensure you grab white chocolate, which might not be as common in every pantry. Also, don't forget poppy seeds, which add a distinctive texture and flavor to the bars.
Ingredients for Glazed Orange Poppy Seed Bars
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and a creamy texture to the bars.
White chocolate: Provides a sweet, smooth base that complements the citrus.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the bars and balances the tartness of the orange.
Orange juice: Infuses the bars with a fresh, tangy flavor.
Orange zest: Enhances the citrus aroma and taste.
Large eggs: Help bind the ingredients and provide structure.
Pure vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor and a hint of sweetness.
All purpose flour: Forms the base and structure of the bars.
Baking powder: Helps the bars rise and become fluffy.
Salt: Enhances all other flavors.
Poppy seeds: Add a subtle crunch and nutty flavor.
Whole milk: Helps create a smooth and creamy glaze.
Confectioner's sugar: Sweetens and thickens the glaze.
Orange slices: Used as a garnish to enhance presentation and flavor.
One reader, Jakie Clifton says:
These glazed orange poppy seed bars are a delightful treat! The citrusy flavor combined with the sweet glaze is simply irresistible. The poppy seeds add a lovely texture, making each bite a joy. Perfect for any occasion!
Techniques Required for Making Glazed Orange Poppy Seed Bars
How to melt butter and white chocolate: Explanation on melting butter and white chocolate together in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly, or using a microwave in 20-second increments, stirring after each.
How to line a baking pan: Explanation on lining the bottom and sides of a 9-inch square baking pan with aluminum foil or parchment, leaving an overhang on all sides.
How to whisk ingredients: Explanation on whisking granulated sugar into the cooled butter mixture, then whisking in orange juice, zest, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
How to fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients: Explanation on gently folding the flour, baking powder, salt, and poppy seeds mixture into the wet ingredients.
How to bake and test for doneness: Explanation on baking the batter until lightly browned and using a toothpick to check for doneness.
How to make glaze: Explanation on combining glaze ingredients in a medium saucepan over low heat and whisking until smooth.
How to glaze bars: Explanation on either pouring glaze over the cooled pan of orange bars or dipping each bar individually into the glaze.
How To Make Glazed Orange Poppy Seed Bars
Something fresh and tangy, this poppy seed bars recipe is something you’d love to. Made of orange bars with orange and vanilla glaze.
Serves:
Ingredients
For the Orange Bars:
- 6tbspunsalted butter
- 8ozwhite chocolate,coarsely chopped
- ½cupgranulated sugar
- 1juice and zest from orange
- 2large eggs
- 1tsppure vanilla extract
- 1¾cupsall purpose flour,spoon and leveled
- ½tspbaking powder
- ¼tspsalt
- 1tsppoppy seeds
For the Glaze:
- 3tbspwhole milk
- 2tbspfresh orange juice
- 2cupsconfectioner’s sugar
- 1tsppure vanilla extract
- ⅛tspsalt
- orange slices,for garnish, optional
Instructions
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Melt the butter and white chocolate together in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly for about 5 minutes, or melt in a medium microwave-safe bowl in 20-second increments, stirring after each, in the microwave.
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Remove from the heat, pour into a large mixing bowl, and allow to slightly cool for 10 minutes.
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Adjust the oven rack to the lower third position and preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (177 degrees C). Line the bottom and sides of a 9-inch square baking pan with aluminum foil or parchment, leaving an overhang on all sides. Set aside.
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Whisk the granulated sugar into the cooled butter mixture. Whisk in the orange juice and zest, then the eggs. Whisk until the batter is completely smooth, then whisk in the vanilla.
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In a separate medium bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, salt, and poppy seeds together. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients.
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Pour batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until the bars are lightly browned around the sides and on top.
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If you find they are browning too quickly on top, loosely cover the bars with aluminum foil. A toothpick inserted into the center of the bars should come out with very few moist crumbs when the bars are done.
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Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan set on a wire rack.
Glaze:
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Combine the glaze ingredients, except for the fresh orange slices, in a medium saucepan over low heat. Whisk until the glaze is smooth.
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Remove saucepan from heat and either pour glaze over the cooled pan of orange bars, then cut the bars into squares or keep the saucepan of glaze over low heat, cut the orange bars into squares, and dip each individually into the glaze.
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Garnish each square with orange. The glaze will set after about 10 minutes.
Nutrition
- Calories: 274.16kcal
- Fat: 9.80g
- Saturated Fat: 5.77g
- Trans Fat: 0.18g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2.69g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.54g
- Carbohydrates: 43.89g
- Fiber: 1.11g
- Sugar: 32.35g
- Protein: 3.47g
- Cholesterol: 37.96mg
- Sodium: 90.03mg
- Calcium: 63.11mg
- Potassium: 126.16mg
- Iron: 0.86mg
- Vitamin A: 52.29µg
- Vitamin C: 16.04mg
Helpful Technique Tip for Glazed Orange Poppy Seed Bars
When melting butter and white chocolate together, use a double boiler to prevent scorching. If you don't have a double boiler, place a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water, ensuring the bowl doesn't touch the water. This gentle heat will melt the ingredients evenly and prevent burning.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe
Melt efficiently: Use a microwave to melt the butter and white chocolate in 20-second increments, stirring after each, to save time.
Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all your ingredients before starting to streamline the process.
Use parchment paper: Line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
Quick cooling: Place the baked bars on a wire rack to cool faster.
Simple glaze: Prepare the glaze while the bars are baking to save time.
Substitute Ingredients For Glazed Orange Poppy Seed Bars Recipe
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and moisture, with a slight coconut flavor that complements the orange.
white chocolate - Substitute with milk chocolate: Milk chocolate can be used for a sweeter, creamier texture, though it will alter the color and flavor slightly.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a slight caramel flavor.
juice and zest from orange - Substitute with lemon juice and zest: Lemon provides a similar acidity and citrus flavor, though it will change the overall taste profile.
large eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) are a good vegan alternative that helps bind the ingredients.
pure vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract offers a different but complementary flavor profile.
all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, though it will make the bars denser.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use 1/4 tsp baking soda and 1/2 tsp cream of tartar to mimic the leavening effect.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt provides a similar salty flavor with additional minerals.
poppy seeds - Substitute with chia seeds: Chia seeds offer a similar texture and added nutritional benefits.
whole milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that provides a similar consistency.
fresh orange juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor, though it will alter the taste profile.
confectioner's sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar powder: Coconut sugar powder is a less refined alternative with a slight caramel flavor.
pure vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a different but complementary sweetness and flavor.
salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt provides a similar salty flavor with larger crystals.
orange slices - Substitute with lemon slices: Lemon slices offer a similar citrus garnish, though with a different flavor.
Presenting Glazed Orange Poppy Seed Bars
Use a pristine white plate: The clean, white surface will make the vibrant orange zest and glaze pop, creating a visually appealing contrast.
Cut bars into uniform squares: Ensure each orange poppy seed bar is cut into precise, even squares for a professional and polished presentation.
Drizzle glaze artistically: Instead of simply pouring the glaze over the bars, use a spoon to drizzle it in a zigzag pattern, adding an elegant touch.
Garnish with thin orange slices: Place a thin, half-moon orange slice on top of each bar for a fresh and colorful garnish that complements the flavors.
Add a sprinkle of poppy seeds: Lightly sprinkle extra poppy seeds over the glazed bars to enhance texture and visual appeal.
Use edible flowers: Decorate the plate with a few edible flowers, such as pansies or marigolds, to add a touch of sophistication and color.
Serve with a side of whipped cream: Pipe a small dollop of freshly whipped cream next to each bar for added indulgence and a creamy contrast to the citrusy flavors.
Include a mint sprig: Place a small sprig of fresh mint next to the bars to add a pop of green and a refreshing aroma.
Dust with confectioner's sugar: Lightly dust the entire plate with a fine layer of confectioner's sugar for a delicate, snowy effect.
Arrange bars in a staggered pattern: Instead of lining the bars up in a grid, arrange them in a staggered pattern to create visual interest and a dynamic presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Glazed Orange Poppy Seed Bars
Medium saucepan: Used to melt the butter and white chocolate together over medium heat.
Microwave-safe bowl: An alternative to the saucepan for melting the butter and white chocolate in the microwave.
Large mixing bowl: For combining the melted butter and white chocolate mixture with other ingredients.
Whisk: Used to mix the granulated sugar, orange juice, zest, eggs, and vanilla into the butter mixture, and to whisk the glaze ingredients.
Medium bowl: For whisking together the dry ingredients like flour, baking powder, salt, and poppy seeds.
9-inch square baking pan: The pan where the batter will be poured and baked.
Aluminum foil: Used to line the baking pan, making it easier to remove the bars after baking.
Parchment paper: An alternative to aluminum foil for lining the baking pan.
Wire rack: For cooling the baked bars completely in the pan.
Toothpick: To check if the bars are done by inserting it into the center and seeing if it comes out with very few moist crumbs.
Knife: For cutting the cooled bars into squares.
Spatula: To help fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients gently.
Measuring cups: For accurately measuring ingredients like flour, sugar, and liquids.
Measuring spoons: For measuring smaller quantities of ingredients like baking powder, salt, and vanilla extract.
Storing and Freezing Glazed Orange Poppy Seed Bars
- Allow the glazed orange poppy seed bars to cool completely before storing.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- To freeze the bars, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
- Freeze the orange poppy seed bars for up to 3 months.
- To thaw, remove the bars from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
- For best results, glaze the bars after thawing to maintain the optimal texture and appearance of the glaze.
- If you plan to freeze the bars, consider waiting to add the glaze until after thawing for the best presentation.
How To Reheat Leftover Glazed Orange Poppy Seed Bars
To reheat glazed orange poppy seed bars, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bars on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and heat for 8-10 minutes, or until warmed through. This method will help restore the texture of the glaze and the bars, making them taste almost as good as freshly baked.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Place the orange poppy seed bars on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 15-20 seconds at a time, checking after each interval to avoid overheating. Be aware that the glaze may melt and the texture of the bars might become slightly softer compared to the oven method.
If you want to restore the glaze to its original shine and consistency, you can make a fresh batch of glaze by combining confectioner's sugar, orange juice, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Drizzle the new glaze over the reheated bars for a refreshed appearance and taste.
For a crispy exterior, you can reheat the glazed orange poppy seed bars in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the bars in the basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Heat for 3-4 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside.
If you have stored the bars in the freezer, allow them to thaw at room temperature for about an hour before reheating using any of the above methods. This will ensure even heating and prevent the bars from becoming too moist or soggy.
Interesting Fact About Glazed Orange Poppy Seed Bars
A unique aspect of this glazed orange poppy seed bars recipe is the combination of white chocolate and orange zest, which creates a delightful balance of sweetness and citrus flavor.
Is Making Glazed Orange Poppy Seed Bars at Home Cost-Effective?
When analyzing the cost-effectiveness of these glazed orange poppy seed bars, we find that the ingredients like white chocolate, unsalted butter, and confectioner's sugar are relatively affordable. The use of orange adds a fresh, zesty flavor without breaking the bank. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $10-$12. Given the delightful taste and moderate expense, this recipe scores a solid 8 out of 10 in terms of cost-effectiveness.
Are Glazed Orange Poppy Seed Bars Healthy or Unhealthy?
The glazed orange poppy seed bars recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:
- High sugar content: The recipe includes both granulated sugar and confectioner's sugar, which can contribute to excessive sugar intake.
- Butter and white chocolate: These ingredients are high in saturated fats, which can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease when consumed in excess.
- Refined flour: All-purpose flour is a refined carbohydrate that lacks fiber and essential nutrients found in whole grain alternatives.
However, the recipe does include some positive elements, such as the use of fresh orange juice and zest, which provide vitamin C and natural flavors.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Reduce the amount of sugar in both the bars and the glaze, or replace some of the sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
- Use whole wheat pastry flour or a mix of all-purpose and whole wheat flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value.
- Replace some of the butter with healthier alternatives like Greek yogurt or mashed avocado to reduce the saturated fat content while maintaining moisture.
- Incorporate additional nutrient-dense ingredients, such as grated carrots or zucchini, to boost the vitamin and mineral content of the bars.
- Serve the bars in moderation as a treat, rather than a regular snack or dessert.
Editor's Opinion on Glazed Orange Poppy Seed Bars
This recipe for glazed orange poppy seed bars is a delightful blend of citrus and sweetness, balanced by the subtle crunch of poppy seeds. The use of white chocolate adds a creamy richness, while the fresh orange juice and zest provide a refreshing tang. The glaze, with its smooth texture and additional orange flavor, complements the bars perfectly. The instructions are clear and straightforward, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. Overall, these bars promise a sophisticated and flavorful treat, ideal for any occasion.
Enhance Your Glazed Orange Poppy Seed Bars Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Glazed Orange Poppy Seed Bars Recipe:
This recipe combines the rich flavors of white chocolate and orange zest to create a delightful treat. The use of poppy seeds adds a unique texture, while the orange glaze provides a perfect finishing touch. Each step is carefully detailed to ensure success, from melting the butter and white chocolate to achieving the perfect bake. Trust this recipe for its balance of sweetness and citrus, and enjoy the professional tips for a flawless result.
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