Squares with oranges

Orange squares - a citrus delight that combines the fluffy texture of the base with the creaminess of a fine cream. These little masterpieces are perfect for a sweet snack with friends or to add a touch of elegance to a festive table. Additionally, the fresh orange flavors will bring a smile to anyone who tastes them.

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Number of servings: 15 squares

A short story

The orange squares recipe is inspired by culinary traditions, where citrus desserts have often been associated with celebrations. The fresh aroma of oranges brings a new breath to desserts, making them not only delicious but also refreshing. Whether served at a party or enjoyed quietly, these squares are a true feast for the senses.

Ingredients

For the base:
- 200 g flour
- 380 g sugar
- 225 g soft butter (make sure it is at room temperature)
- 4 large eggs
- a pinch of salt
- 10 ml orange extract
- zest of one large orange

For the orange cream:
- 225 g Mascarpone cheese (make sure it is at room temperature)
- 50 g soft butter (also at room temperature)
- 300 g powdered sugar
- 10 ml freshly squeezed orange juice
- zest of one orange

Preparing the base

1. Mixing the dry ingredients: Start by adding the flour, sugar, and salt to a food processor. Mix them well to ensure they are homogeneous. This is an essential step as it helps prevent lumps in the mixture.

2. Adding the butter: Cut the butter into cubes and add it to the dry ingredients mixture. Mix at medium speed until the butter is fully integrated and the mixture becomes sandy.

3. Incorporating the eggs: Add the whole eggs, one by one, continuing to mix at high speed. You will notice that the mixture becomes a homogeneous, airy, and fluffy foam. This is the moment to add the extract and orange zest, continuing to mix for a few moments.

4. Baking: Grease a baking tray with butter and dust it with flour, then pour the mixture evenly into the tray. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 30-40 minutes. Check with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the base is ready. Let it cool completely in a cool place.

Preparing the orange cream

1. Uniform mixing: In a bowl, combine the Mascarpone cheese with the soft butter. Ensure both ingredients are at the same temperature to prevent curdling. Mix well until you achieve a homogeneous and creamy composition.

2. Adding powdered sugar: Start adding the powdered sugar gradually, mixing continuously. This will give the cream a fine and sweet texture.

3. Citrus flavors: Add the juice and zest of the orange, mixing well. These ingredients will enhance the flavor and add a fresh taste to your cream.

4. Cooling: Once the base has completely cooled, spread the cream evenly over it. Let it chill in the refrigerator for a few hours to allow the flavors to blend perfectly.

Cutting and serving

1. Cutting the squares: After the cream has set, take the dessert out of the fridge and cut it into equal-sized squares. I ended up with 15 squares, but you can adjust the size according to your preferences.

2. Decorating: On top of each square, place half a slice of orange. This detail not only adds an attractive look but also an extra flavor.

3. Final cooling: Place the squares in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. This will ensure a perfect texture and a delightful taste.

Practical tips

- Dairy-free version: For a vegan option, you can replace the butter with margarine and the Mascarpone with a plant-based alternative. The result will be just as delicious!
- Keeping fresh: These squares keep well in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 2-3 days.
- Delicious pairings: These desserts pair perfectly with winter tea or fresh lemonade. Additionally, a sweet white wine could enhance the citrus flavors.

Nutritional benefits

Oranges are rich in vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system. Additionally, they contain fiber, which aids digestion. Orange squares are not only a treat but also a healthier choice compared to many other desserts rich in fats and refined sugars.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of citrus?
Yes, you can substitute oranges with lemons or grapefruit for a different flavor.

2. Is it possible to freeze the base?
Yes, the base can be frozen before adding the cream. Make sure it is well covered to prevent freezer burn.

3. How can I make the cream less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of powdered sugar according to your preferences. Use more orange juice to maintain the texture.

In the end, orange squares are an excellent choice for any occasion, bringing joy and indulgence in every bite. Whether you prepare them for a party or just to treat yourself, these citrus delights will make you return to the recipe time and time again. Cook with love and enjoy every moment!