Chocolate Orange Brownies
Fudgy brownies infused with fresh orange zest and juice for a rich chocolate flavor with a bright citrus twist. These Chocolate Orange Brownies are perfect for gatherings or an afternoon treat.
There are times when a simple chocolate brownie is all you need, and then there are moments when you want to take it a step further. That is when I thought of adding the bright, zesty flavor of orange to a rich, fudgy brownie. Chocolate and orange have always been a winning combination, but in a brownie they become something truly special.
I made these for a Sunday afternoon gathering when my family came over for coffee and dessert. The smell of melting chocolate and freshly grated orange zest filled the kitchen long before they were ready. When the brownies came out of the oven, the top had that perfect shiny crackle, and the rich aroma was enough to draw everyone in without an announcement.
The first bite was met with smiles all around. The deep cocoa flavor worked perfectly with the citrus brightness, and the texture was just as I had hoped, fudgy in the center with slightly crisp edges. Even my daughter, who usually prefers plain chocolate treats, admitted she liked these better than the classic version.
These brownies are easy enough to make on a weeknight but special enough for guests. They are the kind of dessert that gets people talking and asking for seconds. If you love chocolate and enjoy the hint of freshness that citrus brings, these will quickly become a favorite in your home.
Questions You May Have About This Recipe
Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh
Fresh orange juice and zest give the best flavor, but bottled juice will work in a pinch.
Do I need to use dark chocolate
Dark chocolate gives a richer taste, but you can use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter brownie.
Can I add nuts
Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans work well, though they will change the texture slightly.
Do these freeze well
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Can I make them gluten free
You can substitute the all purpose flour with a gluten free blend that works for baking.
What You Need to Make Chocolate Orange Brownies
200 grams dark chocolate, chopped
200 grams unsalted butter
250 grams sugar
3 large eggs
Zest of 2 oranges
60 milliliters fresh orange juice
120 grams all purpose flour
30 grams cocoa powder
Pinch of salt
Tools
Mixing bowls
Heatproof bowl and saucepan for melting chocolate
Whisk
Baking pan lined with parchment
Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Chocolate Orange Brownies
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Line a baking pan with parchment paper.
In a heatproof bowl over simmering water, melt the butter and chocolate together until smooth. Remove from heat.
Whisk in the sugar until combined.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the orange zest and juice.
Sift the flour, cocoa powder, and salt together. Fold into the chocolate mixture until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the top is set but the center is still slightly soft.
Allow to cool in the pan before cutting into squares.
Tips
Use good quality chocolate for the richest flavor.
Do not overbake if you want a fudgy texture.
Add a tablespoon of orange liqueur for a stronger citrus flavor.
Sprinkle a little sea salt on top before baking for contrast.
Reader Reviews
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “The combination of chocolate and orange is perfect. These brownies were a huge hit at my book club.” – Margaret J.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Delicious and moist. I might add more orange zest next time for a stronger flavor.” – Helen P.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Rich, fudgy, and full of flavor. I will be making these again soon.” – Patricia L.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Lovely brownies. I added walnuts for a bit of crunch and they worked well.” – Anne R.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “The best brownies I have made in a long time. Everyone asked for the recipe.” – Barbara T.
Printable Recipe
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Chocolate Orange Brownies
Fudgy brownies infused with fresh orange zest and juice for a rich chocolate flavor with a bright citrus twist. Perfect for gatherings or an afternoon treat.
Ingredients
- 200 grams dark chocolate, chopped
- 200 grams unsalted butter
- 250 grams sugar
- 3 large eggs
- Zest of 2 oranges
- 60 milliliters fresh orange juice
- 120 grams all purpose flour
- 30 grams cocoa powder
- Pinch of salt
- Tools
- Mixing bowls
- Heatproof bowl and saucepan for melting chocolate
- Whisk
- Baking pan lined with parchment
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Line a baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a heatproof bowl over simmering water, melt the butter and chocolate together until smooth. Remove from heat.
- Whisk in the sugar until combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the orange zest and juice.
- Sift the flour, cocoa powder, and salt together. Fold into the chocolate mixture until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the top is set but the center is still slightly soft.
- Allow to cool in the pan before cutting into squares.
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