There’s something magical about citrus desserts—they manage to feel light and refreshing, yet rich and indulgent all at once. And when it comes to citrus, orange is the star that doesn’t get nearly enough love. These Blonde Orange Brownies are one of those hidden gem recipes that sneak their way into your regular baking rotation after just one bite.

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I remember the first time I had an orange-infused dessert that wasn’t your typical orange-glazed cake or creamsicle treat. It was at a cozy spring brunch, and someone had brought a pan of blondie bars with the most intoxicating aroma. I thought I was biting into a regular brownie alternative, but the burst of fresh orange flavor and the soft, chewy texture completely won me over. Ever since then, I’ve been hooked on the idea of using citrus in baked goods—especially in blondies, where the rich butter base carries the brightness of orange so beautifully.

These orange blondies, with their fudgy center and a zesty glaze on top, feel perfect for spring gatherings, Easter brunches, or even just a sunny afternoon snack with tea. They’re like a little square of sunshine—moist, tender, and full of flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to homemade desserts, this recipe is a must-try. No fancy ingredients, no fuss—just real, vibrant flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Easy and quick – No mixers needed, just a bowl and a whisk.
Bright, fresh flavor – Orange zest and juice make these blondies taste like spring.
Rich and chewy texture – Like a brownie, but buttery and citrusy instead of chocolatey.
Crowd-pleaser – These unique bars always get people asking for the recipe.
Perfect for gifting or gatherings – Simple to slice, wrap, and share.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

For the Blondies:

3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons orange zest
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

For the Orange Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon orange zest
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice

HOW TO MAKE BLONDE ORANGE BROWNIES:

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

Preheat and Prep the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang so you can easily lift the blondies out after baking.
Melt the Butter
In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt your butter. Let it cool slightly—just enough that it won’t cook the eggs when you mix them in.
Whisk the Wet Ingredients
Add the sugar to the melted butter and whisk until smooth. Then crack in the eggs, one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the salt, orange zest, and fresh orange juice. The citrus aroma at this point is incredible—it’s like bottling up the scent of spring.
Add the Flour
Gradually stir in the flour, just until the batter comes together. Don’t overmix—we want these blondies soft and tender.
Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for about 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (but not wet batter).
Cool and Glaze
Let the blondies cool completely in the pan. While they cool, make the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, orange zest, and orange juice. You want a thick but pourable consistency.
Glaze and Slice
Once the blondies are cooled, pour the glaze over the top and spread it gently with a spatula. Let the glaze set before slicing into squares.

HELPFUL TIPS:

Use fresh oranges – Bottled juice won’t give you the same brightness. Zest the orange before juicing for the best flavor.
Don’t skip the glaze – It adds a sweet-tart kick that really brings the whole dessert together.
Want a stronger citrus punch? Add a bit more zest to the batter and glaze.
Line the pan with parchment – Makes removing and cutting the bars much easier and cleaner.
Let them cool completely – These blondies are even better once they’ve had a chance to set.

DETAILS:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 16 blondies
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

NOTES:

You can double this recipe and bake it in a 9×13-inch pan—just add 5–10 minutes to the baking time and check for doneness. The bars keep their chewy texture well even a few days after baking, making them ideal for make-ahead desserts or lunchbox treats.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION:

Approximate per serving (1 blondie out of 16)

Calories: 210
Carbohydrates: 31g
Sugar: 21g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Protein: 2g
Fiber: 0g
Sodium: 70mg

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Can I make these with a different citrus fruit?
Absolutely! Lemon works great, or even grapefruit for a more grown-up twist.

How do I know when the blondies are done?
Look for golden edges and a center that’s set but still soft. A toothpick should come out with a few crumbs.

Can I use orange extract instead of fresh orange?
You can, but it won’t be quite the same. The zest and juice give both aroma and moisture that extract can’t match.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Store blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–4 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze (un-glazed) for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.

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CONCLUSION

These Blonde Orange Brownies are proof that a simple twist on a classic dessert can lead to something truly unforgettable. They’re easy to make, bursting with fresh flavor, and bring a brightness that’s perfect any time of year. Whether you’re sharing them at a brunch, baking with your kids, or treating yourself on a cozy afternoon, these little bars of sunshine will never let you down. So grab those oranges and get baking—deliciousness awaits!