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Blonde Orange Brownies

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Soft, buttery blonde brownies bursting with fresh orange flavor and topped with a creamy citrus cream cheese frosting. These bright, sweet bars are perfect for parties, potlucks, or an easy dessert.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (at room temperature)
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs (at room temperature)
  • 1 tsp fresh orange zest
  • 3 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
  • 2 tbsp fresh orange zest
  • 1 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 2 cups powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a medium bowl, beat 1 cup butter and the granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Whisk in the eggs, followed by 1 teaspoon orange zest and 3 tablespoons orange juice.
  3. Gently fold in the flour and salt until just combined. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  4. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  5. For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and 4 tablespoons softened butter until smooth. Beat in the remaining 2 tablespoons orange zest, 1 tablespoon orange juice, and powdered sugar until creamy.
  6. Poke small holes in the warm bars, then spread the orange cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Chill in the refrigerator before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Use freshly squeezed orange juice and fresh zest for the brightest citrus flavor.
  • Avoid overmixing the batter after adding the flour to help keep the brownies tender.
  • Chilling the frosted brownies makes them easier to slice cleanly.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator because of the cream cheese frosting.

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