Introduction

These Blonde Orange Brownies offer a delightful twist on the classic treat, combining rich buttery batter with bright hints of fresh orange. Topped with a creamy orange-infused frosting, they are perfect for a refreshing dessert or a sweet snack any time of the day.

A square piece of moist yellow cake sits on a white plate, topped with a smooth creamy white frosting that has small orange specks scattered throughout. Behind the cake, there are three thin orange slices arranged in a slight arc, adding a fresh pop of bright orange color. The plate is set on a white marbled surface, with a folded turquoise cloth in the background and part of a white baking dish visible behind it. In the foreground, a half orange and a white handle with a metal cake server are also visible, hinting at a fresh, citrus theme. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350℉. Grease a 13×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
Step 2: For the brownies, cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add the eggs and mix well, scraping the bowl as needed. Stir in the orange zest and orange juice until incorporated.
Step 3: Add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Step 4: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The edges and top should be lightly browned. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.
Step 5: To make the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter together in a large bowl with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the orange zest, 1 tablespoon of orange juice, and powdered sugar. Mix until well combined. Add up to 1 tablespoon more orange juice if needed to reach your desired consistency and flavor.
Step 6: While the brownies are still warm, pierce the entire surface with a fork to allow the frosting to seep in. Spread the frosting evenly over the top. Refrigerate the brownies until the frosting is set and the dessert is cool. Cut into squares and serve.

Tips & Variations

Use freshly squeezed orange juice and zest for the brightest flavor; bottled juice can lack zest intensity.
For a stronger orange flavor, increase the zest slightly in both the batter and frosting.
You can substitute cream cheese frosting for a simple orange glaze made with powdered sugar and orange juice for a lighter topping.
Make sure the butter and eggs are at room temperature to help create a smooth batter.

Storage

Store leftover brownies covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Because of the cream cheese frosting, refrigeration is important to keep them fresh and safe. Reheat individual pieces briefly in the microwave if you prefer them warm, but they are delicious served chilled as well.

How to Serve

A single square piece of moist yellow cake with a smooth, creamy off-white frosting that has tiny orange specks on top, placed in the middle of a white plate. Behind the cake are four thin orange slices arranged in a slight arc. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with an orange half in the lower left corner, a teal cloth napkin in the upper left corner, and a white-handled cake server near the bottom right. The background includes a white baking dish and two whole oranges slightly out of focus. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use orange extract instead of fresh orange juice and zest?

While orange extract can add flavor, it lacks the fresh brightness and natural oils from zest and juice. If needed, use a small amount of extract, but fresh ingredients work best.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the pan. When it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the brownies are done. The top and edges should be lightly browned.