Citrus season in Arizona begins in December and lasts through March. It has been one of our favorite traditions to gather citrus from the backyard and to make yummy treats like these orange brownies, which are one of our go-to orange-flavored treats!
These orange brownies mix up quickly with simple ingredients, real orange extract, and zest for bold flavor, and bake into tender, sliceable squares with a glossy glaze on top. We got the recipe years ago from a family friend, and we now make them every year because they’re so delicious.
They are light and bright alternative to a rich classic brownie. For more fresh Orange-y recipes, try our Orange Rolls, Copycat Orange Julius, and Orange Juice Smoothie.
Why we think you’ll love it:
- Sunny. Their bright citrus flavor that feels fresh and special.
- Quick. With only 10 minutes of prep, these brownies are baked and ready to serve in no time!
- Make ahead. These store well making them great to serve at parties or give to neighbors and friends.
Orange Brownie Ingredients
Brownies
- Granulated sugar (2 cups) – The sugar sweetens and helps the top bake to a light, delicate crust.
- Butter, softened (1 cup) – Butter adds richness and keeps the brownie base tender.
- Salt (1 teaspoon)- Salt balances sweetness and sharpens the citrus notes.
- Eggs, room temperature (4 large)- Eggs bind the batter and give the bars a soft, fudgy bite.
- Pure orange extract (2 teaspoons)- The extract delivers bold orange flavor without extra liquid.
- Grated orange zest (1 teaspoon)- The zest adds fragrant oils for a fresh, natural citrus aroma. See how to zest citrus for tips.
- All-purpose flour (1 ½ cups)- The flour provides structure so bars slice cleanly.
Glaze
- Powdered sugar (1 cup)- The sugar dissolves smoothly for a glossy, thin icing.
- Orange juice (2 tablespoons) thins the glaze and boosts bright citrus tang.
- Fresh orange zest (1 teaspoon)- The zest doubles down on fresh orange flavor in every bite.
How to Make Orange Brownies
PREP. Grease a 9×13 pan (optional: line with parchment paper). Preheat the oven to 350°F
WET INGREDIENTS. Add the butter and sugar to a medium bowl and use an electric mixer to mix until they are creamed together.
DRY INGREDIENTS. Mix in the salt, eggs, orange extract, and orange zest. Stir until just combined. Add the flour and stir until the ingredients are combined and smooth.
BAKE. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes.
SIFT. Begin by sifting the powdered sugar into a small bowl to make sure it is smooth and free of any clumps.
MIX. Add the orange juice and orange zest, then mix until the glaze is smooth.
POUR. Once the orange brownies have cooled you can pour the glaze over the top of the brownies. Wait a few minutes for the glaze to set to a shiny top before cutting.
Kristyn’s Recipe Tips
- No orange extract on hand? Use extra zest or a little frozen orange juice concentrate for a flavor boost.
- You can buy a citrus zester or use the small section on a box cheese grater. See how to zest citrus for tips.
- Just like with classic fudge brownies, let them cool just a bit and use a plastic knife to cut even, clean slices.
- Use our tutorial on How to Line a Pan with Parchment Paper to get the best fit!
Orange Brownies Recipe
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure orange extract
- 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
- 1 ½ cups all purpose flour
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
Instructions
Brownie Base
- Grease a 9×13 pan (optional: line with parchment paper). Preheat the oven to 350°F
- Add the butter and sugar to a medium bowl and mix until they are creamed together.
- Mix in the salt, eggs, orange extract and orange zest. Stir until just combined.
- Add the flour and stir until ingredients are combined and smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 25-30 minutes.
Glaze
- Begin by sifting the powdered sugar into a small bowl to make sure it is smooth and free of any clumps.
- Add the orange juice and orange zest, then mix until the glaze is smooth.
- Once the brownies have cooled you can pour the glaze over the top. Wait a few minutes for the glaze to set before cutting.
Notes
- No orange extract on hand? Use extra zest or a little frozen orange juice concentrate for a flavor boost.
- You can buy a citrus zester or use the small section on a box cheese grater. See how to zest citrus for tips.
- Just like with classic fudge brownies, let them cool just a bit and use a plastic knife to cut even, clean slices.
- Use our tutorial on How to Line a Pan with Parchment Paper to get the best fit!
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Recipe FAQ
Store, covered or in an airtight container, at room temperature for 2 to 3 days, in the fridge for up to a week, or wrap with plastic and place in a Ziploc bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and serve chilled or at room temperature.
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This recipe originally published July 2021.
I took these to a party!!! HUGE HIT!🥰🙌🙌🙌
I am worried about the recipe being too sweet. Any comments? Also, what would be the best size pan to try 1/2 the recipe? Thank you for your help.
Henry’s mom
I like using fresh OJ in recipes like this. Has anyone tried using it instead of the orange extract?
I haven’t tried this recipe with real orange juice. You’ll have to let us know how it turns out if you do.
If you are even slightly thinking about making these, just do it! They are super easy. These are the best baked orange treat I’ve ever had.
These are so good! I love the bright orange flavor. Absolutely perfect with both a glass of milk or a cup of coffee. So delicious. This is one of my new favorites! Yum!
I can’t get enough of these brownies! Loving this citrus version. The glaze is absolutely delicious!
Thank you so much for these amazing orange brownies. I would have never thought of it but now I can’t stop eating them.
If you want something other than chocolate this is the brownie to try.
The most refreshing brownie ever!! Love the orange flavor. It just bursts in your mouth!