Orange-Infused Dark Chocolate Brownies

rich, fudgy brownies get a zesty twist with the addition of fresh orange zest, creating a perfect balance of citrus and deep chocolate flavors. They’re easy to make and sure to satisfy any sweet tooth craving.

Ingredients

10 ounces semisweet chocolate
1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup lightly packed brown sugar
3 eggs
1 large orange, zested
1 cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup cocoa powder
1 (6 ounce) package white chocolate, chopped (Optional)

Why You'll Keep Making This

These brownies combine the rich, deep flavor of dark chocolate with a bright, zesty hint of orange. The citrus adds a fresh twist that balances the sweetness perfectly. They are moist, fudgy, and satisfy chocolate lovers looking for something a little different.

Helpful Tips For Cooking

- Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor and texture.
- Be careful not to overbake; check with a toothpick to keep them fudgy inside.
- Grate fresh orange zest instead of using extract for a more natural and vibrant citrus taste.

Step 1

Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9-inch square pan, give it a light grease, and line it with parchment paper, making sure the paper hangs over two opposite sides—this will help you lift the brownies out easily later.

Step 2

Put the semisweet chocolate and butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Melt them together in short bursts of about 15 seconds, stirring in between, until everything is smooth and combined. This usually takes around 1 to 3 minutes depending on your microwave.

Step 3

In a separate bowl, beat the brown sugar, eggs, and orange zest with an electric mixer until the mixture is thick and fluffy. Gently fold in the melted chocolate mixture so it’s well combined.

Step 4

Sift the flour and cocoa powder together into another bowl, then stir them into the chocolate-egg mixture. Add the white chocolate bits and give everything a good stir. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it out evenly.

Step 5

Pop the pan in the oven and bake for about 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan—this can take 15 to 30 minutes. Once cooled, use the parchment paper handles to lift them out and cut into squares. Enjoy!

Serving Variations

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also pair nicely with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. For a festive touch, sprinkle some powdered sugar or add a few orange slices on the side.

Storage Instructions

Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for up to three months. Thaw frozen brownies at room temperature before serving.

From the Dipdish Cooking Team

Kitchen Staff