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Blonde Orange Brownies Recipe

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★★★★★

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.

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

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

Find it online: https://lucabites.com/blonde-orange-brownies-recipe/