Orange Magic Custard Bars

INGREDIENTS

• 4 egg whites
• 4 egg yolks
• 1 ¼ cup powdered sugar
• ½ cup butter, melted and cooled
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1 teaspoon orange extract
• 1 ½ cups warm whole milk
• Optional: 2-3 drops orange food coloring

PREPARATION

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, then spray with cooking spray.
2. Add egg whites to a medium-sized bowl or stand mixer and beat until stiff peaks form.
3. In a large bowl, beat egg yolks and sugar until light and airy.
4. Mix the melted butter, orange zest, vanilla, almond extract, and orange extract until smooth.
5. Gently mix in the orange juice until incorporated, then mix in flour until no dry spots remain.
6. Using a whisk, gently beat in the milk until smooth. Batter will be thin.
7. Gently whisk in egg whites. Batter does not need to be fully smooth.
8. Pour batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the center only has a slight jiggle.
9. Allow bars to cool before slicing.