Creamy Pink Grapefruit Bars with Buttery Shortbread Crust

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DESCRIPTION:
These grapefruit bars are a refreshing twist on classic citrus desserts. They feature a rich, buttery shortbread crust topped with a smooth, creamy grapefruit curd filling. The flavor is perfectly balanced—sweet, tangy, and slightly bitter from the fresh grapefruit. With their beautiful pink hue and soft texture, these bars are both eye-catching and delicious, making them perfect for any occasion or afternoon treat.

INGREDIENTS:

For the Crust:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened

For the Filling:

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup fresh grapefruit juice
  • 1 tablespoon grapefruit zest
  • 1–2 drops pink food coloring (optional)
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

INSTRUCTIONS:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, mix flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
  3. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan to form the crust.
  4. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until lightly golden at the edges.
  5. While the crust bakes, whisk together sugar and flour in a bowl. Add eggs and mix well.
  6. Stir in fresh grapefruit juice and zest until smooth.
  7. Pour the filling over the warm crust.
  8. Return to oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the center is set.
  9. Let cool completely, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
  10. Dust with powdered sugar, slice into squares, and serve.

TIPS:

  • Use fresh grapefruit juice for the best flavor—bottled juice won’t taste as vibrant.
  • Do not overbake the crust; it will bake again with the filling.
  • Chill thoroughly before cutting to get clean, neat slices.
  • For extra flavor, mix a little lemon juice with grapefruit juice for a brighter taste.
  • Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

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