Blonde Orange Brownies
A delightful twist on classic brownies with bright citrus notes from orange zest and juice, offering a rich and moist texture.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature adds moisture
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar provides sweetness and structure
- 3 large eggs, room temperature helps with leavening
- 1 tsp orange zest adds brightness
- 3 Tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice enhances flavor
- 1 cup all-purpose flour forms the base structure
- 1 tsp salt balances sweetness
Frosting
- 8 ounces block-style cream cheese, softened provides creaminess
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened adds richness
- 2 Tbsp orange zest for frosting, adds more citrus flavor
- 1 Tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice for frosting, enhances taste
- 2 cups powdered sugar sweetens and thickens frosting
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven and grease your baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until smooth.
- Fold in the orange zest and freshly squeezed orange juice.
- Add the all-purpose flour and salt, folding gently until combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
Baking
- Bake until the edges are set and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Let the brownies cool completely.
Frosting
- In a clean bowl, beat the cream cheese and unsalted butter until creamy.
- Gradually mix in powdered sugar until smooth, then fold in additional orange zest and juice.
Assembly
- Frost the cooled brownies generously with the cream cheese frosting.
- Cut into squares or rectangles and serve.
Notes
For best results, ensure butter and cream cheese are at room temperature. Avoid overmixing the batter and allow brownies to cool completely before frosting.