Get ready to revolutionize your dessert game with these mind-blowing orange brownies that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more! Imagine a decadent chocolate brownie infused with bright, zesty orange flavor - a surprising twist that transforms the classic brownie into an extraordinary culinary experience. Whether you're a chocolate lover, citrus enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates unique desserts, these Paula Deen-inspired brownies are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 brownies
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9-inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper, ensuring the sides are covered for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Beat until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and fresh orange juice.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, salt, baking powder, and cocoa powder to ensure no lumps remain.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the fresh orange zest, distributing it evenly throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, cut into 16 equal squares and serve. Optional: dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with orange glaze.
Tips
- Use fresh orange zest and juice for the most vibrant citrus flavor
- Don't overmix the batter - this ensures a tender, fudgy texture
- Use room temperature eggs and butter for smoother incorporation
- Check brownies early - they're done when a toothpick has moist crumbs
- Let brownies cool completely for clean, precise cutting
- For extra indulgence, consider adding a light orange glaze or dusting with powdered sugar
- Store in an airtight container to maintain moisture and freshness
- These brownies taste even better the next day as flavors continue to meld
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 33g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 40mg
