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There is just something about these Orange Julius Bars that brings childhood summers right back to my kitchen. Creamy and citrusy with a hint of vanilla they turn ordinary ingredients into a treat that tastes like dreamsicle magic poured into a popsicle mold. I make these every summer when the heat settles in and sun spills into the house just right and the first bite is always sunshine on a stick.
I started freezing Orange Julius into bars one lazy July afternoon and they became our family’s favorite pool snack. These take me straight back to eighties summers and sticky orange fingers running through sprinklers.
Ingredients
- Frozen orange juice concentrate: six ounces makes for the brightest orange flavor use a brand with no extra sugar for best results
- Milk: gives the bars their creamy base choose whole milk for richness or a lighter version if desired
- Water: stretches the base and creates perfect icy texture
- Granulated sugar: brings the sweetness just enough to make it a treat taste before freezing if your juice is extra sweet
- Vanilla extract: transforms the bar with hints of cream soda use pure vanilla for depth
Instructions
- Stir Together the Base:
- Combine thoroughly thawed orange juice concentrate with milk water sugar and vanilla in a large bowl whisking well to dissolve every grain of sugar. This is key for smooth bars later.
- Pour and Prep the Molds:
- Distribute the creamy mixture evenly into popsicle molds or sturdy paper cups. If you use cups stick a piece of foil over each then poke a stick through to keep it upright. Fill almost to the top but leave a little room for expansion.
- Freeze Until Firm:
- Place the molds in the coldest part of your freezer and let them become fully solid. Usually this takes at least six hours but I always leave them overnight for best texture.
- Unmold and Enjoy:
- To release bars run the molds under warm water for a few seconds then gently tug the stick. If using cups peel back the paper. Eat immediately while they are perfectly frosty.
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My favorite ingredient here has to be the vanilla. A splash of it brings out orange’s floral notes and creates almost an ice cream shop flavor. I remember my cousin and I once daring each other to add double vanilla and loving every bite.
Storage Tips
These bars keep well if stored airtight for up to three weeks though they never last that long in my house. Line any storage container with parchment to prevent sticking and always keep at the back of your freezer to avoid melt and refreeze texture changes.
Ingredient Substitutions
Try coconut milk for a dairy free option that adds a subtle tropical note. If you want bars less sweet or if your juice is already sweetened reduce the sugar by a couple tablespoons. Almond or oat milk work too but stick with regular for that classic taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these right out of the freezer as a poolside treat or wrap each in wax paper for picnics. For a party dessert sprinkle shaved coconut or grated orange zest on top before freezing. They make a perfect end to a backyard cookout.
A Little History
The original Orange Julius drink was invented in the nineteen twenties as a sweet frothy stand drink. Freezing it into bars is my playful twist on a soda fountain icon that brings a little retro fun to backyard summers.
Seasonal Adaptations
Make them with tangerine or blood orange concentrate for winter color Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt for punchy tang in early spring Freeze with diced strawberries stirred in as berries hit peak at the farmers market
Success Stories
Kids love the DIY aspect of pouring and unmolding these bars. I gifted a tray to my neighbor last July and her teenagers asked for the recipe before they even finished their first bar. These have a way of turning simple afternoons into lasting summer memories.
Freezer Meal Conversion
Mix and pour the base ahead whenever you have a spare minute then freeze directly in paper cups with sticks. Once solid pop them all into a zip top bag for grab and go snacking whenever a steamy afternoon hits.
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With a handful of ingredients and a freezer you can make moments of summer nostalgia any time you need a bright break. Have fun experimenting and happy snacking!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use fresh orange juice?
Fresh orange juice can work, but frozen concentrate delivers a more intense, classic flavor and creamy consistency.
- → How long should the bars freeze?
Freeze the bars for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for a firm texture and easy unmolding.
- → Can I substitute non-dairy milk?
Yes, almond or oat milk can be used for a dairy-free version, though texture may vary slightly.
- → Why add vanilla extract?
Vanilla rounds out flavors and enhances the creaminess, giving that signature Orange Julius taste.
- → Is additional sugar necessary?
The sugar boosts sweetness and helps soften the bars, but you can adjust or omit for personal preference.