The very first time I tasted a calamansi bar, I was enchanted by its bright citrus flavor that danced on my palate—a perfect balance of sweet and tangy. You might think that such deliciousness requires culinary mastery, but I’m here to share a little secret: these Creamy Calamansi Bars are incredibly simple to make and can elevate any gathering. Whether you’re hosting friends for weekend brunch or looking for a comforting treat after a long day, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture this: a velvety filling poured over buttery shortbread crust that practically melts in your mouth. With only a handful of ingredients, including the beloved calamansi fruit, these bars are a breezy way to indulge without the fuss. And let’s face it—after too many nights of fast-food takeout, a homemade dessert like this is a refreshing change. So, let’s dive into this recipe and bring a little sunshine to your kitchen. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Why are Creamy Calamansi Bars so irresistible?
Zesty Flavor Explosion: The unique tartness of calamansi paired with sweet condensed milk creates a delightful balance that tantalizes your taste buds.
Effortlessly Simple: This recipe uses minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for a family gathering or a cozy night in, these bars are sure to wow your guests with their beautiful presentation.
Make Ahead & Chill: Prepare them in advance and store in the fridge, making it a convenient option for busy schedules.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: With their bright flavor and creamy texture, everyone will be coming back for seconds—no one can resist!
Plus, try serving them alongside your favorite homemade ice cream for a delicious twist.
Creamy Calamansi Bars Ingredients
For the Crust
• Icing sugar – adds a sweet touch to balance the crust’s buttery richness.
• Plain flour – forms the base for a flaky, tender crust.
• Unsalted butter – using room temperature butter ensures a smooth, creamy mixture.
For the Filling
• Large egg – binds the ingredients together, providing structure to the filling.
• Egg yolks – enrich the texture, making it extra creamy.
• Calamansi zest – enhances the filling with a fragrant citrus aroma.
• Freshly squeezed calamansi juice – delivers that signature tart flavor for your Creamy Calamansi Bars.
• Sweetened condensed milk – adds sweetness and creaminess that complements the tartness beautifully.
• Vanilla extract – rounds out the flavors with warm undertones.
• Calamansi liqueur or Cointreau – a splash elevates the taste but can be omitted for a non-alcoholic option.
• Big pinch of salt – balances the sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor.
For Serving
• Icing sugar – a dusting on top for an elegant finish.
• Mini meringue kisses – delightful crunchy toppings that along with fresh or candied calamansi slices add a lovely contrast in texture.
How to Make Creamy Calamansi Bars
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 21 x 21cm (8-inch) square baking tin with non-stick baking paper, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides for easy removal.
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Mix the Crust: In a bowl, sift together icing sugar and plain flour. Beat in unsalted butter on low speed until a smooth dough forms. Transfer this buttery goodness to the prepared baking tin.
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Press the Dough: Firmly press the dough into the bottom and sides of the pan using the back of a spoon or a jar’s bottom. For even baking, line the crust with non-stick paper and fill with pie weights or rice.
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Bake the Crust: Bake your crust for 25-35 minutes until it turns a lovely deep golden brown. Rotate the pan halfway through for even browning.
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Prepare the Filling: While the crust is baking, whisk together the large egg and egg yolks in a large bowl until well combined.
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Mix the Filling Ingredients: Add calamansi zest, freshly squeezed calamansi juice, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk everything together until smooth, creating a vibrant, zesty filling.
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Pour & Bake Again: Carefully pour the filling over the pre-baked crust. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or just until the filling is set but still jiggly in the center.
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Cool Down: Cool the pan at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. Then, transfer it to the fridge to chill for 2 hours; overnight is even better for enhanced flavors.
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Slice & Serve: Cut into even bars and serve with a generous dusting of icing sugar, mini meringue kisses, or calamansi slices for a beautiful presentation. Keep refrigerated for up to 4 days but garnish just before serving.
Optional: Serve with a scoop of coconut ice cream for an extra tropical touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Calamansi Bars are a lifesaver for busy home cooks! You can prepare the crust up to 24 hours in advance by baking it, allowing it to cool, and then storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. The filling can also be mixed ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; this ensures the flavors develop beautifully. When you’re ready to enjoy these bars, simply pour the chilled filling over the pre-baked crust and bake as directed. For the best results, always garnish with icing sugar and toppings just before serving to keep everything fresh and inviting. Happy meal prepping!
What to Serve with Creamy Calamansi Bars?
Imagine savoring the bright citrus notes of these bars alongside complementary flavors that elevate your dessert experience.
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Coconut Ice Cream: The creamy richness of coconut ice cream enhances the tropical essence of the calamansi. This combo creates a blissful balance of flavors and textures.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a burst of freshness. Their sweetness contrasts beautifully with the tangy calamansi filling, making each bite a delight.
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Mint Tea: A warm cup of mint tea offers a refreshing palate cleanser. It’s the perfect beverage to sip alongside the bars, enhancing the overall experience.
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Meringue Nests: Light and airy meringue kisses echo the bar’s creaminess and add a delightful crunch. Pair them for an elegant dessert display.
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Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring melon, pineapple, and calamansi segments brightens the palate. Its refreshing quality makes a perfect foil to the rich dessert.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: Serve a fizzy drink with a squeeze of lime to cleanse the palate. The bubbles and citrus complement the vibrant flavors of the calamansi bars beautifully.
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Vanilla Custard: A silky vanilla custard spooned alongside offers a luscious creaminess that pairs perfectly with the tangy bars, creating a harmonious dessert experience.
Enjoy these pairings to transform your dessert into a memorable feast!
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Calamansi Bars
Room Temperature: Store at room temperature for up to 1 day, but keep them covered to prevent them from drying out or absorbing unwanted flavors.
Fridge: Keep your Creamy Calamansi Bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This preserves their creamy texture and zesty flavor—perfect for grabbing a quick treat!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bars in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Reheating: If desired, thaw overnight in the fridge and serve chilled, or for a warm treat, gently reheat in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
Expert Tips for Creamy Calamansi Bars
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Use Fresh Fruit: For the best flavor, always use freshly squeezed calamansi juice instead of bottled—it’s worth the extra effort!
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Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary. You want the filling set but still slightly jiggly in the center, ensuring a dreamy texture.
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Cooling Is Key: Allow your bars to cool in the pan before refrigerating. This step helps them set up properly and makes slicing easier.
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Line the Pan Well: Ensure you line the baking tin with non-stick paper to prevent sticking. This simple step will save your beautiful bars from breaking apart.
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Chill Before Serving: Let the bars chill overnight for the best flavor. You’ll notice the creamy filling becomes even more delicious as it firms up.
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Garnish Thoughtfully: Add the icing sugar and garnishes just before serving to keep your Creamy Calamansi Bars looking fresh and appealing.
Creamy Calamansi Bars Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize your Creamy Calamansi Bars with these delightful twists that brighten every bite!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute plain flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix for a deliciously inclusive treat.
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Citrus Medley: Combine calamansi juice with lemon or lime juice to enhance the zesty flavor. The blend adds a refreshing layer that will surprise your palate.
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Vegan Delight: Replace the eggs with 1/4 cup silken tofu blended until smooth, and use coconut cream instead of condensed milk for a creamy vegan option that stands out.
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Nutty Crunch: Add 1/2 cup finely chopped nuts like almonds or macadamias to the crust for a satisfying crunch that’ll elevate every bite.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over your cooled calamansi bars for an indulgent twist that contrasts wonderfully with the tartness.
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Herbal Infusion: Incorporate a teaspoon of fresh mint or basil into the filling to create a unique, vibrant flavor profile that’s both refreshing and unexpected.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped chili to the filling for a surprising heat that pairs intriguingly with the creamy sweetness.
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Layered Bars: Create a layered version by adding a thin layer of fruit jam or curd beneath the creamy filling for an additional burst of flavor and a stunning visual effect.
Creamy Calamansi Bars Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting calamansi?
When selecting calamansi, look for firm fruits with smooth, shiny skin. Avoid any that have dark spots all over or appear wrinkled. The color should be a vibrant green or yellow, depending on ripeness—both are great for making the juice!
How should I store my Creamy Calamansi Bars?
After making your Creamy Calamansi Bars, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This keeps them fresh and allows the flavors to develop nicely. If you need to keep them longer, consider freezing them!
Can I freeze the Creamy Calamansi Bars, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze your bars, first, ensure they are completely cooled and cut into individual servings. Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container, adding parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge!
What if the filling doesn’t set correctly?
If your filling has not set properly, it may need longer baking time. Ensure the oven temperature is correct, and the filling should be jiggly but not liquid when you take it out. Allow the bars to cool properly; they will firm up more as they chill in the fridge. If the texture is still off, you might need to experiment a bit more with future batches, perhaps using a touch less juice or more egg yolks.
Are there any dietary considerations for making these bars?
Yes! If you’re considering allergies, be aware that this recipe includes dairy (butter and sweetened condensed milk) and eggs. For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream instead of sweetened condensed milk, and dairy-free butter for the crust. Always consult with your guests about any dietary restrictions before serving!
Zesty Creamy Calamansi Bars: A Tropical Treat to Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the Oven to 350°F (180°C) and prepare a baking tin.
- Mix the Crust ingredients and press into the baking tin.
- Bake the crust for 25-35 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare the filling by whisking egg and yolks, then add filling ingredients.
- Pour the filling over the baked crust and bake again for 15-20 minutes.
- Cool the pan at room temperature, then chill in the fridge for 2 hours.
- Slice into bars, dust with icing sugar, and serve.