Blonde Orange Brownies Recipe

Introduction

Blonde Orange Brownies are a delightful twist on a classic treat, combining rich buttery sweetness with fresh citrusy notes. Topped with a creamy orange cream cheese frosting, these brownies offer a bright and indulgent dessert perfect for any occasion.

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 (stirred, spooned & leveled)
• 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 (plus more if needed)
• 2 cups powdered sugar

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350℉. Grease a 13×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
3. Step 3: Stir in 1 teaspoon of orange zest and 3 tablespoons of freshly squeezed orange juice until fully incorporated.
4. Step 4: Add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet ingredients. Mix gently until just combined, careful not to overmix. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
5. Step 5: Bake the brownies at 350℉ for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the edges are lightly browned.
6. Step 6: While the brownies bake, prepare the frosting. Using an electric hand mixer, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add 2 tablespoons of orange zest, 1 tablespoon of orange juice, and the powdered sugar. Mix until well combined, adding up to an additional tablespoon of orange juice if needed for your desired consistency.
7. Step 7: Once the brownies are out of the oven and slightly warm, pierce the entire surface with a fork. Spread the orange cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
8. Step 8: Refrigerate the frosted brownies until the frosting is set and completely cool. Cut into squares and serve.

Tips & Variations

• For a more intense orange flavor, increase the zest in both the batter and frosting.
• If you prefer a softer frosting, add orange juice gradually to reach your ideal texture without thinning it too much.
• Try adding chopped white chocolate or toasted nuts to the batter for added texture.
• Use blood orange juice and zest for a unique twist and beautiful color.

Storage

Store leftover blonde orange brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow refrigerated brownies to come to room temperature or warm slightly before serving to enjoy the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use orange extract instead of fresh orange juice and zest?

While orange extract can be used in a pinch, fresh orange zest and juice provide a brighter, more natural citrus flavor that really makes these brownies stand out.

Can I freeze the brownies?

Yes, you can freeze the brownies before frosting. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, freezing for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting and serving.

Blonde Orange Brownies Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 146 reviews

• Author: Hugo
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

These Blonde Orange Brownies combine the classic richness of buttery blondies with a bright, citrusy twist from fresh orange zest and juice. Topped with a smooth, tangy orange cream cheese frosting, this dessert is perfect for fans of fruity, decadent treats that balance sweetness with refreshing citrus notes. Easy to bake and ideal for gatherings, these brownies offer a chewy, moist texture paired with a luscious frosting that elevates every bite.

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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

Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 ounces block-style cream cheese, softened
• 4 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 2 Tbsp orange zest
• 1 Tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice (plus up to 1 Tbsp more if needed)
• 2 cups powdered sugar

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃) and grease a 13×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Set it aside for the batter.
2. Make the Brownie Batter: Using an electric mixer, cream together the room temperature butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly incorporated. Stir in the orange zest and freshly squeezed orange juice until fully mixed.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet mixture. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter, which helps keep the brownies tender. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
4. Bake the Brownies: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The top and edges will turn a light golden brown.
5. Prepare the Frosting: While the brownies are baking, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together in a large bowl until smooth using an electric hand mixer. Add the orange zest, 1 tablespoon of orange juice, and powdered sugar. Mix until fully combined and creamy. If needed for desired consistency or taste, add up to 1 additional tablespoon of orange juice.
6. Frost the Brownies: Once the brownies are out of the oven and still warm, pierce the entire sheet with a fork to create small holes. This helps the frosting sink in and infuse flavor. Spread the frosting evenly over the top. Refrigerate the brownies until the frosting is firm and the dessert is cool. Cut into pieces and serve chilled. Store any leftovers refrigerated.

Notes

• Using room temperature eggs and butter helps the batter blend more smoothly and results in a better texture.
• Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest provide the brightest and most natural citrus flavor. Adjust the amount of orange juice in the frosting to achieve your preferred balance of flavor and consistency.
• Make sure not to overmix the batter after adding flour to keep the brownies tender.
• Refrigerate the frosted brownies to firm up the cream cheese frosting before cutting for clean slices.
• Keep leftover brownies refrigerated and consume within 3-4 days for best taste and freshness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: blonde brownies, orange brownies, cream cheese frosting, citrus dessert, easy brownies recipe