Blonde Orange Brownies Recipe

Introduction

These Blonde Orange Brownies offer a delightful twist on traditional brownies, combining the rich creaminess of orange-infused batter with a tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfectly moist and bursting with citrus flavor, they make a wonderful treat 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 (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℉. Grease a 13×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
2. Step 2: For the brownies, cream the room temperature butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until smooth. Add the eggs and mix well, scraping the bowl as needed. Stir in the orange zest and freshly squeezed orange juice until fully combined.
3. Step 3: Add the all-purpose flour and salt to the mixture and mix until just combined. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
4. Step 4: Bake at 350℉ for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top and edges should be lightly browned.
5. Step 5: To make the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together in a large bowl with an electric hand mixer until smooth. Add the orange zest, 1 tablespoon of orange juice, and powdered sugar. Mix until incorporated, adding up to 1 tablespoon more orange juice if needed to reach your preferred consistency and taste.
6. Step 6: While the brownies are still warm, pierce the entire sheet with a fork to allow the frosting to seep in. Spread the frosting evenly over the top. Refrigerate until cool and set. Cut into squares and serve. Keep any leftovers refrigerated.

Tips & Variations

• For a zestier flavor, increase the orange zest slightly or add a splash of orange extract to the batter.
• Use blood oranges for a unique twist and a slightly deeper color.
• Swap the all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
• If you prefer a lighter frosting, reduce the amount of cream cheese and add more powdered sugar instead.

Storage

Store the Blonde Orange Brownies covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The frosting contains cream cheese, so refrigeration is necessary. Reheat individual portions briefly in the microwave if desired, but they are also delicious served cold.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, you can freeze the brownies without frosting for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before frosting and serving.

Can I use bottled orange juice instead of freshly squeezed?

While freshly squeezed orange juice gives the best flavor, bottled juice can be used in a pinch. Choose a high-quality, 100% orange juice with no added sugars for best results.

Blonde Orange Brownies Recipe

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 98 reviews

Delight in these moist and zesty Blonde Orange Brownies, featuring a luscious cream cheese and orange frosting. This vibrant twist on classic brownies blends the fresh flavors of orange zest and juice with a rich buttery base, finished with a tangy, creamy topping. Perfect for any occasion, these brownies offer a bright citrus burst balanced by smooth sweetness.

• Author: luca
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 15 servings 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 (plus up to 1 Tbsp more if needed)
• 2 cups powdered sugar

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃). Grease a 13×9-inch baking dish thoroughly with cooking spray and set it aside to prepare the batter.
2. Make the Brownie Batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the room temperature unsalted butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time and mix well after each addition. Scrape down the sides to ensure even mixing. Stir in the orange zest and freshly squeezed orange juice until fully incorporated.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: Sift or spoon the all-purpose flour and salt into the wet mixture. Gently mix just until combined, being careful not to overmix to maintain a tender texture. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
4. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. To test doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The top and edges should be lightly browned.
5. Prepare the Frosting: While the brownies bake, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter in a large bowl with an electric hand mixer until smooth and creamy. Mix in the orange zest, 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed orange juice, and powdered sugar until fully combined. Add up to 1 tablespoon more orange juice if needed to reach your desired consistency and taste.
6. Frost and Chill: As soon as the brownies come out of the oven and are still warm, pierce the entire surface with a fork to allow steam to escape and prevent a soggy top. Spread the cream cheese orange frosting evenly over the warm brownies. Refrigerate the brownies until fully cool and the frosting is set, about 1 to 2 hours.
7. Serve and Store: Once cooled, cut the brownies into 15 servings. Keep any leftovers refrigerated to maintain freshness and the creamy texture of the frosting.

Notes

• For the best orange flavor, use freshly grated orange zest and freshly squeezed orange juice.
• Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
• Do not overbake to keep the brownies moist and tender.
• Piercing the warm brownies before frosting helps prevent cracking and ensures the frosting adheres well.
• Refrigerate leftovers and consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Keywords: blonde brownies, orange brownies, cream cheese frosting, citrus dessert, baking, orange zest, orange juice, moist brownies, tangy frosting