Grapefruit Bars are a fresh and elegant twist on classic citrus dessert bars. With a buttery shortbread crust and a smooth, tangy grapefruit filling, they offer a beautiful balance between sweet and slightly tart flavors. The natural pink color of ruby red grapefruit gives these bars a vibrant look, making them perfect for spring gatherings, afternoon tea, or anytime you want a light and refreshing homemade dessert.
Unlike traditional lemon bars, grapefruit bars have a more delicate citrus profile with subtle bitterness that adds depth. When paired with sugar and butter, the result is a soft, creamy texture that melts in your mouth while still feeling bright and refreshing.
Ingredients
For the Shortbread Crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
For the Grapefruit Filling
- 2 large ruby red grapefruits (zest and juice)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 large eggs
- 1 egg yolk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: a small drop of red or pink food coloring for a deeper hue
For Topping
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving some overhang to make lifting the bars easier later.
Step 2: Make the Shortbread Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and work it into the dry ingredients using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture becomes crumbly. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a firm crust layer.
Bake the crust for about 10 minutes, until lightly set but not fully browned.
Step 3: Prepare the Grapefruit Juice
Juice the grapefruits and place the juice in a small saucepan. Simmer gently until reduced by about half. This concentrates the flavor and helps the filling set properly.
Step 4: Make the Filling
In a bowl, rub the grapefruit zest into the sugar with your fingertips to release its natural oils and aroma. Add the reduced grapefruit juice, lemon juice, eggs, egg yolk, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth. Add the flour and salt and mix until fully combined. If desired, add a tiny drop of food coloring for a more vibrant pink color.
Step 5: Bake the Bars
Pour the filling over the partially baked crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the filling is just set in the center and no longer liquid.
Step 6: Cool and Chill
Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours to firm up the texture and make slicing easier.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Lift the chilled bars from the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into squares with a sharp knife and dust lightly with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh ruby red grapefruit for the best color and flavor.
- Don’t skip reducing the juice, as it intensifies the citrus taste.
- Chill thoroughly before cutting to achieve clean, sharp edges.
- Dust with powdered sugar right before serving for a beautiful finish.
Storage
Store grapefruit bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They taste best when served chilled or slightly cool, allowing the citrus flavor to remain bright and refreshing.
These Grapefruit Bars are a lovely alternative to traditional citrus desserts, offering a unique flavor that feels both sophisticated and comforting. Perfectly balanced between sweet and tart, they are sure to become a favorite for anyone who enjoys vibrant homemade treats.