Blonde Orange Brownies Recipe
Why Make This Recipe?
Blonde Orange Brownies are a refreshing twist on traditional brownies, combining the soft, chewy texture of blondies with the bright, zesty flavor of oranges. These dessert bars are perfect for citrus lovers and make a delightful addition to any occasion. Whether for a potluck, family gathering, or a simple treat at home, they’re easy to prepare and absolutely irresistible.
Recipe Overview
- Servings: 12-16
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Cooling Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour 10 minutes
How to Make Blonde Orange Brownies
Ingredients
- For the Brownies:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted ????
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs ????
- 1 tbsp orange zest ????
- 1 tsp vanilla extract ????
- 2 tbsp fresh orange juice ????
- For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh orange juice ????
- ½ tsp orange zest (optional for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs, orange zest, vanilla extract, and orange juice. Mix until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix.
- Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25-28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Brownies
- Let the brownies cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar or juice as needed.
- Glaze the Brownies
- Drizzle or spread the glaze over the cooled brownies. Garnish with additional orange zest if desired.
How to Serve Blonde Orange Brownies
Cut the brownies into squares or bars and serve as a sweet snack or dessert. Pair them with a cup of tea, coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent experience.
How to Store Blonde Orange Brownies
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate: Extend their shelf life by refrigerating for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Freeze unglazed brownies for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and glaze before serving.
Tips to Make Blonde Orange Brownies
- Use Fresh Oranges: Freshly squeezed juice and zest enhance the flavor and aroma.
- Don’t Overbake: Remove from the oven as soon as a toothpick comes out clean to keep them moist and chewy.
- Glaze Last Minute: Add the glaze just before serving for a fresh and glossy finish.
Variations
- White Chocolate Chip Addition: Fold ½ cup of white chocolate chips into the batter for extra sweetness.
- Nutty Flavor: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets.
Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring eggs to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother batter.
- Even Spread: Use an offset spatula to spread the batter evenly in the pan for uniform baking.
- Brighten the Glaze: Add a pinch of orange food coloring to the glaze for a fun and vibrant look.
How Many Servings?
This recipe yields 12-16 bars, depending on the size of the cuts.
Calories and Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~180
- Protein: ~2g
- Fats: ~8g
- Saturated Fats: ~5g
- Carbohydrates: ~25g
- Fiber: ~0g
- Sodium: ~60mg
Health Benefits of Blonde Orange Brownies
- Vitamin C Boost: Orange zest and juice provide a natural dose of vitamin C.
- Customizable Sweetness: Adjust sugar levels to suit your preferences.
- Mood Enhancer: The bright citrus aroma and flavor are known to lift your spirits.
Is It Good for People Over 60 Years Old?
Yes, with minor adjustments:
- Lower Sugar Option: Use less sugar or a sugar substitute for reduced sweetness.
- Add Fiber: Substitute part of the flour with almond flour or oat flour for added fiber.
- Gentle Texture: The soft and chewy texture is easy on teeth and gums.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought orange juice?
Yes, but fresh orange juice provides better flavor and aroma.
2. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust the baking time to 30-35 minutes.
3. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free butter and plant-based milk in the glaze for a dairy-free version.
Blonde Orange Brownies are the ultimate citrusy dessert bar that combines the best of bright, tangy flavors and soft, chewy textures. Easy to make and impossible to resist, this recipe is perfect for sharing or savoring all on your own. Try it today and enjoy a sweet twist on a classic treat!
