When you take your first bite of Orange Custard Squares, you’ll immediately be transported to a sun-soaked orchard on a lazy summer afternoon. The creamy custard, with its tangy citrus flavor and buttery crust, dances on your palate like an orange-scented waltz. fluffy orange sweet rolls creamy lemon dessert As the sweet aroma wafts through your kitchen, it’s almost as if the universe is inviting you to stop everything and savor the moment. lemon blueberry cupcakes zesty lemon cookies. You might also enjoy this Irresistible Orange Sweet Rolls recipe.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use other citrus fruits for Orange Custard Squares?
- How long do Orange Custard Squares last in the fridge?
- Can I freeze Orange Custard Squares?
- 📖 Recipe Card
I remember the first time I made Orange Custard Squares at a family gathering. My cousin, who usually stays away from anything that isn’t pizza or burgers, took one look at those golden squares and declared them “life-changing.” Let me tell you, folks, getting him to eat anything remotely fancy is like trying to coax a cat into a bath. But these delightful squares had everyone—including the pickiest of eaters—coming back for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe for Orange Custard Squares is straightforward enough for beginners yet impressive enough to wow your guests.
- The zesty flavor profile offers a refreshing twist that brightens any occasion.
- Each slice presents a beautiful golden hue that catches the eye and tantalizes the taste buds.
- These squares are perfect for brunches, picnics, or simply when you need a sweet treat to brighten your day.
My friends still rave about that gathering where these Orange Custard Squares stole the show.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: A must-have for the buttery crust; sift it to ensure a smooth texture in your base.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness; don’t skip it unless you enjoy tart surprises.
- Unsalted Butter: Use cold butter for flakiness; be sure to cut it into small cubes before mixing.
- Fresh Oranges: Choose plump oranges for juicing; their zest adds an aromatic kick that’s irresistible.
- Eggs: Fresh eggs provide structure and richness; room temperature eggs mix more smoothly into your custard.
- Milk: Whole milk works best here; it elevates creaminess in the custard filling.
- Baking Powder: Just a pinch helps create a lift in the custard; don’t overdo it or you’ll get unexpected results.
- Salt: A tiny amount enhances flavors across the board; it’s like magic but without the wand.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. This step ensures those beautiful Orange Custard Squares won’t stick around longer than necessary.
Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine flour and sugar, then add cold butter. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, mix until crumbly. It should resemble wet sand—perfectly gritty yet ready for action.
Press and Bake: Pack this mixture evenly into the bottom of your greased baking dish. Bake for about 15 minutes until lightly golden. While it’s baking, take in that warm buttery scent—it’s pure bliss.
Mix the Filling: In another bowl, whisk together eggs and remaining sugar until smooth. Add freshly squeezed orange juice and zest along with milk—this combo will rock your taste buds!
Add Dry Ingredients: Sprinkle in flour and baking powder while gently folding everything together. Be careful not to overmix; we want fluffy custard squares—not orange-flavored bricks!
Pour and Bake Again: Pour this luscious mixture over your pre-baked crust. Return it to the oven and bake for another 25-30 minutes until the custard sets but still has a slight jiggle in the middle—like a firm handshake!
Cool Down: Once done baking, let it cool completely before slicing into squares. Trust me—you’ll want to wait so those flavors can meld perfectly!
Enjoy serving these delightful treats chilled or at room temperature—they’re great either way!
You Must Know
- Orange Custard Squares are a delightful treat that combines zesty citrus with creamy goodness.
- The balance of sweetness and tanginess makes them irresistible.
- Perfect for gatherings, they always disappear quickly, leaving your guests asking for the recipe.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by whisking eggs and sugar until fluffy, then mix in orange juice and zest before adding cornstarch. This sequence ensures a smooth custard texture that sets beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Consider swapping out orange for lemon or lime to create different flavors. Adding a sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon can also enhance the warmth of these squares.
Storing & Reheating
Store Orange Custard Squares in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. For best flavor, enjoy them chilled but let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh orange juice for vibrant flavor; avoid bottled juice which can taste dull.
- Ensure your eggs are at room temperature to achieve better emulsification.
- Don’t rush the cooling process; letting them chill properly enhances their texture and taste.
Sometimes I whip up these Orange Custard Squares just to see my friends’ delighted faces as they take their first bite—nothing beats that smile!
FAQ
Can I use other citrus fruits for Orange Custard Squares?
Yes, lemons or limes can be great alternatives for vibrant flavors.
How long do Orange Custard Squares last in the fridge?
They typically last about four days when stored properly.
Can I freeze Orange Custard Squares?
Freezing is not recommended as it affects texture and creaminess significantly.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Orange Custard Squares
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 9 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the refreshing taste of Orange Custard Squares, a perfect combination of creamy custard and buttery crust. Each bite offers a zesty burst of citrus flavor, transporting you to sunlit orchards. Ideal for brunches or as a sweet treat, these delightful squares are sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3 large fresh eggs, room temperature
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- Zest of 1 large orange
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour and sugar; add cold butter and mix until crumbly.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the baking dish and bake for about 15 minutes until lightly golden.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs and remaining sugar until smooth. Mix in orange juice, zest, and milk.
- Gently fold in flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined.
- Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes until set with a slight jiggle in the center.
- Cool completely before slicing into squares.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 195
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
