Looking for a tasty Citrus recipe? These Blood Orange Dessert Bars are the perfect treat! The blood oranges add such a great hint of sweetness and freshness to these soft, zesty bars. And most importantly, they’re so easy to make! And this recipe is totally unbaked and takes just 20 minutes of active time from beginning to end. But you must make it in advance as it needs to sit in the refrigerator for at least a few hours or ideally overnight to set completely before serving.
🍽 S E R V I N G S
12 Bars
⏰ T I M E
prep time - 20 minutes
cooking time - 5-7 minutes
set time- 2 hours-overnight
INGREDIENTS:
FOR THE CRUST
10-12 soft dates, pitted
3/4 cup lightly toasted cashews
1/4 cup almond flour
1/4 cup vegan dark chocolate chunk
4 tbsp cocoa powder
1/4 cup maple syrup
2 tbsp coconut oil, melted
Pinch of sea salt
FOR THE FILLING
1/2 cup water
1 1/2 tbsp agar agar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 tbsp arrowroot
1 cup blood orange juice
1/2 cup coconut cream
1 drop red food color, optional
1 tsp orange zest
1 pinch salt
WORKING THE MAGIC:
FOR THE CRUST:
Add all the ingredients in a high speed blender and mix on high until a loose dough is formed.
You should be able to squeeze the mixture between two fingers and form a dough instead of it crumbling. If too dry, add a bit more melted coconut oil.
Transfer mixture to a parchment-lined baking pan and spread evenly. Then place parchment paper on top and use a flat-bottomed object, such as a steel measuring cup, to press down firmly until it’s evenly distributed and well packed.
Let it chill in the refrigerator & work on the filling.
FOR THE FILLING
Start a medium saucepan on medium heat. Add the water, agar-agar, sugar and salt, and let the sugar melt completely.
Now add blood orange juice, coconut cream, and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Next add arrowroot powder and stir continuously to avoid any lumps. Stir continuously until it thickens (about 5 minutes). Once it starts to bubble lightly remove from the heat, no need to boil for a longer time.
Add the red color, if using and then pour filling over the prepared crust and spread into an even layer. Tap on counter to remove any air bubbles.
Let it cool for 20 minutes on the counter, then transfer to refrigerator to let cool completely (uncovered) – at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
To serve, slice and sift with cocoa powder (optional). Store leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, up to 3 days.
If you ever try this recipe don’t forget to share your photos with us on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter or tag us on Instagram @homemadeishappinezz using the hashtag #homemadeishappinezz and stay connected. Would love to see your creations from this space!! Happy Cooking❤️
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