Mango Curd Dessert Bars with Shortbread Crust: A Tropical Delight
Mango Curd Dessert Bars with Shortbread Crust are the perfect balance of buttery, crumbly shortbread and a tangy, sweet mango curd filling. The tropical flavors of mango make these bars a refreshing treat, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a summer gathering or enjoying them as a sweet snack, these bars are sure to impress. If you’re interested in exploring more tropical-inspired desserts, check out these mango-based desserts or discover other refreshing curd recipes here.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to make these delicious bars, including tips for perfecting the shortbread crust and mango curd filling.
Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions
Creating Mango Curd Dessert Bars with Shortbread Crust is simple, and the result is an irresistible treat that everyone will love.
Ingredients
For the Shortbread Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Mango Curd:
- 2 large ripe mangoes (peeled and chopped, or 1 1/2 cups mango puree)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
Instructions
- Make the shortbread crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a food processor, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the vanilla extract and pulse until the dough starts to come together. Press the dough into the bottom of an 8×8-inch square baking pan, making sure it’s even. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
- Prepare the mango curd: In a medium saucepan, combine the mango puree (or chopped mangoes), sugar, egg yolks, lime juice, cornstarch, and salt. Whisk until smooth. Cook the mixture over medium heat, constantly stirring, until it thickens and reaches a custard-like consistency. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the butter until it melts and the curd becomes smooth.
- Assemble the bars: Pour the mango curd over the cooled shortbread crust, spreading it evenly. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the curd has set but is still slightly jiggly in the center. Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set the curd fully.
- Serve and enjoy: Once chilled, cut the dessert bars into squares. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch. Enjoy your delicious Mango Curd Dessert Bars with Shortbread Crust!
Advanced Techniques for Perfect Mango Curd Dessert Bars
While the basic recipe is simple and easy, there are a few tips and tricks to make your Mango Curd Dessert Bars even more delicious.
Using Fresh Mango vs. Mango Puree:
For the freshest flavor, it’s best to use ripe, fresh mangoes. Simply peel and chop them, then blend them into a smooth puree. If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought mango puree, but fresh mango will give you a more vibrant taste and texture.
Perfecting the Mango Curd Texture:
To achieve the perfect consistency for your mango curd, it’s important to cook the mixture over medium heat and constantly stir to prevent curdling. If the curd gets too thick before it’s fully cooked, simply add a bit of water or extra lime juice to loosen it.
Crust Variations:
If you want to experiment with the crust, consider adding a hint of coconut for a tropical twist, or use graham crackers for a different texture. You can also substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a gluten-free crust.
See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.
Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (although it’s unlikely), here’s how to store and maintain the freshness of your Mango Curd Dessert Bars.
Storage:
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This will keep the shortbread crust crisp and the mango curd fresh.
Freezing:
These dessert bars freeze well. To freeze, cut them into squares and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet in the freezer. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply place them in the fridge overnight.
Serving after Refrigeration:
Once chilled, the mango curd will be firm and set. If you prefer to enjoy the bars at room temperature, let them sit out for about 10-15 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions
- Mango Curd Dessert Bars can be adapted to meet different dietary preferences. Here are a few substitutions:
Gluten-Free:
To make these bars gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour for the crust. You can also make the crust using almond flour or coconut flour for a gluten-free, grain-free alternative.
Vegan:
For a vegan version, swap the butter in both the crust and curd for plant-based butter or coconut oil. For the eggs in the curd, you can use a vegan egg replacer or cornstarch (you may need to increase the amount of cornstarch slightly).
Low-Sugar:
To reduce the sugar content, you can substitute the granulated sugar in the mango curd with a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit. Be sure to choose a sugar substitute that can withstand heat for the best results.
FAQs About Mango Curd Dessert Bars
Can I use frozen mango for the mango curd?
Yes! Frozen mango works well in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before pureeing it for the curd.
Can I use a different fruit for the curd?
Absolutely! While mango is the star of this recipe, you can substitute it with other fruits like passion fruit, lemon, or orange for a different flavor profile. The method will remain the same.
Do I need to bake the mango curd?
Yes, baking the mango curd helps it set and develop a smooth, creamy texture. However, it’s important not to overbake it; you just want the curd to set without becoming overly firm.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
Mango Curd Dessert Bars with Shortbread Crust offer a perfect balance of tropical sweetness and buttery richness. These bars are an ideal dessert for summer parties, family gatherings, or whenever you need a sweet, refreshing treat. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a showstopping dessert that’s both beautiful and delicious.
Try making these mango curd bars today, and let the tropical flavors brighten your day!