Indulge in the perfect harmony of rich chocolate and zesty citrus with these irresistible Layered Citrus Chocolate Squares. This decadent dessert features a fudgy dark chocolate brownie base topped with a luscious layer of creamy citrus filling, bursting with the vibrant flavors of lime, lemon, and orange zest. A touch of white chocolate adds an extra layer of indulgence to the tangy topping. Ready in under an hour (plus chilling time), these squares are an elegant and refreshing treat, ideal for parties, special occasions, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. Serve them chilled or at room temperature for a balance of textures and flavors that will leave everyone craving more. Keywords: citrus chocolate squares, layered dessert, chocolate and citrus recipe, fudgy brownie base, zesty citrus layer, party desserts, citrus brownie bars.
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
In a heatproof bowl, melt the butter and dark chocolate together over a double boiler or in 30-second intervals in the microwave, stirring in between until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
Whisk the sugar into the melted chocolate mixture. Add the eggs, one at a time, whisking until fully incorporated after each addition.
Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the chocolate mixture until no streaks of flour remain.
Pour the chocolate batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly with a spatula. Bake for 20-22 minutes, until the surface is just set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownie base cool completely in the pan.
While the brownie base cools, prepare the citrus layer. In a saucepan over low heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, lime juice and zest, lemon juice and zest, and orange zest. Heat gently, stirring continuously until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove the citrus mixture from the heat and stir in the white chocolate chips until melted and fully combined.
Pour the citrus mixture over the cooled brownie base, spreading it evenly to create a smooth layer. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the citrus layer is set.
Using the parchment paper overhang, carefully lift the dessert out of the pan and place it on a cutting board. Slice into 16 squares with a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts for precise edges.
Serve chilled or at room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Calories |
5333 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 326.3 g | 418% | |
| Saturated Fat | 189.2 g | 946% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1051 mg | 350% | |
| Sodium | 1885 mg | 82% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 578.1 g | 210% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 42.1 g | 150% | |
| Total Sugars | 396.6 g | ||
| Protein | 81.1 g | 162% | |
| Vitamin D | 3.4 mcg | 17% | |
| Calcium | 1221 mg | 94% | |
| Iron | 39.2 mg | 218% | |
| Potassium | 3837 mg | 82% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.