Dark Chocolate Orange Blondies with Brown Butter
Chewy brown sugar blondies studded with dark chocolate chunks and brightened with fresh orange zest. The citrus cuts through the rich sweetness while creating an irresistible contrast to the deep chocolate. Perfect for casual gatherings, potlucks, or afternoon treats when you want something more sophisticated than basic brownies but easier than layer cakes. The orange zest makes these feel fresh and modern.
Ingredients
- 6 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggsflax eggs2 eggs = 2 tbsp ground flax + 6 tbsp waterveganeggs-free
let sit 5 minutes to gel
Full guide → - 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ¼ cups flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups dark chocolate chunks
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven and spray baking dish with baking spray
- 2
Cream butter and brown sugar in stand mixer on medium speed until fluffy
- 3
Add eggs, orange zest, and vanilla extract until creamy
- 4
Add flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined
- 5
Stir in dark chocolate chunks
- 6
Pour into baking dish and spread evenly
- 7
Bake until done
- 8
Cool completely before slicing
Tips
Use fresh orange zest for the brightest citrus flavor - dried zest won't provide the same aromatic oils.
Don't overmix once flour is added to keep blondies tender and chewy rather than tough.
Let cool completely before cutting or they'll fall apart - patience makes cleaner squares.
Good to Know
Store covered at room temperature up to 4 days or refrigerate up to 1 week
Can be made 2 days ahead - flavor actually improves as orange zest mellows
Serve at room temperature, cut into squares with sharp knife
Common Mistakes
Don't overbake or blondies will be dry - they should still look slightly underdone in center
Use room temperature eggs to prevent butter mixture from seizing up
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
Vegan Options
let sit 5 minutes to gel
Full guide →General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, but reduce brown sugar by 2 tablespoons since milk chocolate is sweeter and may make blondies overly sweet.
What if I don't have orange zest?
Substitute 1 teaspoon orange extract or 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice, though zest provides better texture and flavor.
How long do these keep?
Store covered at room temperature for 4 days or refrigerate up to 1 week. They also freeze well for 3 months.