Orange and sesame sweet treats are a delightful combination of citrusy orange flavor and nutty sesame seeds that make for a perfect dessert or snack. These treats come in various forms, from cookies and cakes to bars and candies.
They are not only incredibly delicious but also packed with nutrients, making them a healthier alternative to traditional sugary sweets. In this article, we will explore some mouthwatering orange and sesame sweet treat recipes that you can easily make at home.
1. Orange-Sesame Cookies
These crunchy cookies are a perfect blend of zesty orange and toasty sesame flavors. To make these cookies, you will need:.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, and orange zest until light and fluffy. Gradually add the flour and mix until well combined. Shape the dough into small balls and roll them in sesame seeds.
Place the balls on a baking sheet and flatten them slightly with the back of a fork. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden. Let the cookies cool completely before serving.
2. Orange-Sesame Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is a treat for the senses. Here’s what you’ll need:.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 eggs
- 2 tablespoons orange zest
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds for garnish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, and orange zest until well combined. Pour the batter into a greased and floured cake pan. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for garnish.
Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool before slicing and serving.
3. Orange-Sesame Bars
These chewy bars are a delightful snack for any occasion. Gather the following ingredients:.
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix together the rolled oats, flour, melted butter, honey, orange juice, sesame seeds, and orange zest until well combined.
Press the mixture into a greased baking dish and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Allow the bars to cool before cutting them into squares.
4. Orange-Sesame Candies
These bite-sized candies are a sweet indulgence. Here’s what you’ll need:.
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons corn syrup
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
In a saucepan, combine the orange juice, sugar, and corn syrup. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 245°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer. Remove from heat and let it cool for a minute. Stir in the sesame seeds.
Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a greased baking sheet or silicone mat. Let the candies cool and harden before enjoying.
5. Orange-Sesame Energy Balls
These nutritious energy balls are the perfect on-the-go snack. Here’s what you’ll need:.
- 1 cup pitted dates
- 1/2 cup almonds
- 1/4 cup dried apricots
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
In a food processor, blend the dates, almonds, dried apricots, orange juice, and orange zest until the mixture forms a sticky dough. Roll the dough into small balls and coat them with sesame seeds.
Place the energy balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up before serving.
Conclusion
Orange and sesame sweet treats offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you prefer cookies, cakes, bars, candies, or energy balls, these recipes provide a variety of options to indulge in.
Incorporating the citrusy goodness of oranges and the earthy nuttiness of sesame seeds, these treats are not only delicious but also loaded with essential nutrients. So, go ahead and enjoy these orange and sesame sweet treats guilt-free!.