Dreamsicle Bars are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion, and with a preparation time of just 25 minutes, they’re a quick and easy dessert option to whip up, especially during the busy holiday season! This recipe, discovered in the charming cookbook “Gifts in a Jar — Bars & Brownies,” promises a burst of sweet flavors reminiscent of the classic dreamsicle, making it a sure hit with family and friends alike.
To start your culinary journey to dreamsicle bliss, preheat your oven to a toasty 350 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring it’s ready to work its magic on these delectable bars. With a prep time of just 5 minutes, you’ll be diving into the baking process in no time.
In a generously sized mixing bowl, combine the creamy richness of butter with the essential ingredients of eggs, fragrant vanilla extract, and a dash of water. Cream these together until the mixture is smooth and velvety, setting the stage for the luscious texture of your dreamsicle bars.
Once your wet ingredients are thoroughly combined, it’s time to introduce the dry elements that will give your bars structure and flavor. Gradually incorporate the sugar, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and baking powder into the creamy mixture, gently stirring until everything is well incorporated. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect balance of sweetness and fluffiness that dreamsicle bars are known for.
With your batter beautifully blended, it’s time to transfer it to a prepared 9×12 inch baking pan, lightly greased to ensure easy removal once your bars are baked to golden perfection. Spread the batter evenly across the pan, smoothing it out to create a uniform surface that will bake into irresistible squares of dreamsicle goodness.
Slide your pan into the preheated oven and let the magic happen as the aromas of vanilla and citrus begin to fill your kitchen. Bake the dreamsicle bars for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, signaling that they are ready to be enjoyed.
Once baked to perfection, remove the pan from the oven and allow your dreamsicle bars to cool slightly in the pan, allowing them to set and develop their signature chewy texture. Once cooled, it’s time to unleash your inner pastry chef and cut your creation into tantalizing 2-inch squares, ready to be devoured by eager taste testers.
With each bite, savor the creamy sweetness of the dreamsicle filling, perfectly complemented by the buttery richness of the crust. These bars are sure to be a crowd-pleaser, earning rave reviews from anyone lucky enough to indulge in their irresistible charm.
Nutritionally, these dreamsicle bars offer a guilt-free indulgence, with each serving packing just 177.9 calories and a modest 9.1 grams of fat. Plus, with a prep time of under 30 minutes, they’re a convenient option for satisfying your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen.
So, whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, looking for a quick dessert fix, or simply craving a taste of nostalgia, these dreamsicle bars are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you dreaming of seconds. With their simple yet irresistible flavor profile and easy-to-follow recipe, they’re destined to become a staple in your dessert repertoire.
