Description
These Blonde Orange Brownies combine the rich, buttery texture of classic blondies with a fresh, zesty orange flavor. Topped with a smooth cream cheese orange frosting, these brownies offer a perfect balance of sweet and citrusy, making them a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
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, if needed)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃). Grease a 13×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and set it aside.
- Make the brownie batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the room temperature unsalted butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until 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 combined. Stir in the orange zest and freshly squeezed orange juice until incorporated.
- Add dry ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet mixture. Gently mix with the electric mixer until just combined, being careful not to overmix to maintain a tender texture.
- Bake the brownies: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top and edges should be lightly browned.
- Prepare the orange cream cheese frosting: While the brownies bake, in a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter together with an electric hand mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the orange zest and 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed orange juice, then gradually mix in the powdered sugar. Adjust consistency by adding up to 1 tablespoon more orange juice if needed to achieve desired taste and spreadability.
- Finish and serve: As soon as the brownies come out of the oven and are still warm, pierce the entire surface with a fork to allow the frosting to seep in slightly. Spread the prepared orange cream cheese frosting evenly over the warm brownies. Refrigerate the brownies until cooled and the frosting is set. Once chilled, cut into squares and serve. Keep any leftovers refrigerated to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and texture.
- The orange zest and juice provide the signature citrus flavor—freshly squeezed juice is best for a bright taste.
- If frosting is too thick, add more orange juice a teaspoon at a time for spreadability.
- Piercing brownies before frosting helps the flavor penetrate evenly.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
