Blonde Orange Brownies Recipe

Introduction

Blonde Orange Brownies offer a delightful twist on classic brownies with bright citrus flavors and a creamy orange frosting. These soft, buttery bars are perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a sweet treat with a refreshing zesty kick.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature, 2 sticks)
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 tsp orange zest
• 3 Tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (stir, spoon & level)
• 1 tsp salt
• 8 ounces block-style cream cheese (softened)
• 4 Tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 Tbsp orange zest
• 1 Tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice (or more, if needed)
• 2 cups powdered sugar

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350℉ and grease a 13×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Set aside.
2. Step 2: For the brownies, use an electric mixer to cream together the butter and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs and mix well, scraping the bowl as needed. Stir in the orange zest and orange juice until combined.
3. Step 3: Add the flour and salt to the mixture. Mix just until combined, then spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
4. Step 4: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The edges and top should be lightly browned.
5. Step 5: To make the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter with an electric hand mixer until smooth. Add the orange zest, 1 tablespoon of orange juice, and powdered sugar. Mix until fully incorporated. Add up to 1 tablespoon more orange juice if needed to reach your desired consistency and flavor.
6. Step 6: While the brownies are still warm, pierce the entire surface with a fork. Spread the frosting evenly on top. Refrigerate until cool and set, then cut into squares and serve.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh, high-quality oranges for the zest and juice to maximize the bright citrus flavor.
• For an extra burst of orange, add a teaspoon of orange extract to the batter or frosting.
• If you prefer a tangier frosting, reduce the powdered sugar slightly and add a bit more orange juice.
• For a nutty touch, sprinkle chopped toasted almonds or walnuts on top after frosting.

Storage

Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring them to room temperature before serving or enjoy them chilled. For best results, frost the brownies just before serving if storing unfrosted.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in equal amounts. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum to help with texture.

Can I freeze Blonde Orange Brownies?

Yes, these brownies freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and spread frosting after thawing if preferred.

Blonde Orange Brownies Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 66 reviews

Blonde Orange Brownies are a delightful twist on classic brownies, combining a rich, buttery base infused with fresh orange zest and juice. Topped with a creamy orange cream cheese frosting, these brownies offer a perfect balance of citrusy brightness and indulgent sweetness, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.

• Author: Windy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 to 16 brownies 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Brownies

• 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature, 2 sticks)
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 tsp orange zest
• 3 Tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (stir, spoon & level)
• 1 tsp salt

Frosting

• 8 ounces block-style cream cheese (softened)
• 4 Tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 Tbsp orange zest
• 1 Tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice (or more as needed)
• 2 cups powdered sugar

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃). Lightly grease a 13×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside to prepare for the batter.
2. Make Brownie Batter: Using an electric mixer, cream together the room temperature unsalted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure thorough mixing. Incorporate the orange zest and freshly squeezed orange juice until evenly blended.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish for an even bake.
4. Bake the Brownies: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The edges and top should be lightly browned, signaling they are done.
5. Make the Frosting: While the brownies are baking, prepare the frosting by beating the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together with an electric hand mixer until smooth. Add the orange zest, 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed orange juice, and powdered sugar. Mix until fully incorporated, adding up to 1 more tablespoon of orange juice if needed to reach your preferred consistency and taste.
6. Frost and Cool: When the brownies come out of the oven and are still warm, pierce the entire surface with a fork to create small holes for the frosting to seep into. Spread the prepared orange cream cheese frosting evenly over the warm brownies. Refrigerate the brownies until the frosting is firm and cool. Cut into squares and serve. Store any leftovers refrigerated to maintain freshness.

Notes

• Use freshly grated orange zest and freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor.
• Piercing the warm brownies allows the frosting to sink slightly, enhancing moisture and flavor.
• Room temperature ingredients blend more easily and create a better texture.
• Keep leftover brownies refrigerated and consume within 4-5 days for optimal freshness.
• Adjust frosting consistency by adding orange juice gradually to avoid it becoming too runny.

Keywords: Blonde Brownies, Orange Brownies, Cream Cheese Frosting, Citrus Dessert, Easy Brownie Recipe