Blonde Orange Brownies Recipe

Introduction

These Blonde Orange Brownies offer a delightful twist on classic brownies, featuring a bright citrus flavor that’s perfect for spring or anytime you want a fresh treat. With a creamy orange-infused frosting on top, they’re sure to impress family and friends alike.

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 (for frosting)
• 1 Tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice (or more, if needed for frosting consistency)
• 2 cups powdered sugar

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350℉ and grease a 13×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Set it aside while you prepare the batter.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, cream the room temperature butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the bowl as needed. Stir in the orange zest and orange juice until fully incorporated.
3. Step 3: Add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients and mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
4. Step 4: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The top and edges should be lightly browned, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Let the brownies cool slightly before frosting.
5. Step 5: To make the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth using a hand mixer. Add the orange zest, 1 tablespoon of orange juice, and powdered sugar. Mix well, adding up to 1 more tablespoon of 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 orange frosting evenly over the top. Refrigerate the brownies until the frosting sets and the brownies are completely cool. Cut into squares and serve.

Tips & Variations

• For extra zest, try adding a teaspoon of orange extract to both the batter and frosting.
• If fresh oranges aren’t available, high-quality bottled juice can work in a pinch, but fresh is best for vibrant flavor.
• You can bake these brownies in smaller pans for thicker portions; just adjust baking time accordingly.

Storage

Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture. These brownies also freeze well—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these brownies dairy-free?

You can substitute dairy-free butter and cream cheese alternatives to make this recipe dairy-free. Keep in mind the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

Why do I need to pierce the brownies before frosting?

Piercing the warm brownies allows the frosting to seep in slightly, adding more moisture and flavor for a richer taste and better texture.

Blonde Orange Brownies Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 86 reviews

These Blonde Orange Brownies are a delightful twist on traditional brownies, featuring a bright, citrusy flavor from fresh orange zest and juice. Soft and buttery with a luscious orange cream cheese frosting, they’re perfect for anyone looking for a unique dessert that’s both rich and refreshing.

• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 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 (or more as needed)
• 2 cups powdered sugar

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350℉. Grease a 13×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking, then set it aside for later.
2. Make the Brownie Batter: Using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate all ingredients evenly. Stir in the orange zest and freshly squeezed orange juice until just combined.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until the batter is just combined to maintain tenderness in the brownies.
4. Bake the Brownies: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the edges are lightly browned.
5. Prepare the Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together with an electric hand mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the orange zest, 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice, and powdered sugar. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. If needed, add up to an additional tablespoon of orange juice to reach your preferred frosting consistency and taste.
6. Finish and Serve: While the brownies are still warm, pierce the entire surface with a fork to allow the frosting to settle properly. Spread the orange cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Refrigerate the brownies until fully cooled and the frosting is set, then cut into squares and serve. Keep any leftovers refrigerated.

Notes

• Use freshly grated orange zest for the best, most vibrant flavor. Avoid the white pith which can add bitterness.
• Ensure butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature to achieve a smooth batter and frosting.
• You can adjust the amount of orange juice in the frosting based on desired sweetness and consistency.
• Store brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator; best consumed within 3–4 days for freshness.

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