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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Instructions

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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