Equipment
- 8x8 pan
Ingredients
- ¾ cup all purpose flour
- ¾ cup sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoon fresh orange juice
- 2 tablespoon orange zest
Glaze
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoon orange juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Mix thoroughly or sift the dry ingredients together for an even blend.
- Add the softened butter, eggs, fresh orange juice, and grated orange zest to the dry ingredients.
- Beat the mixture until well combined and a smooth batter forms.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the brownies are baking, prepare the orange glaze by mixing the powdered sugar, orange juice, and grated orange zest in a small bowl until smooth.
- Once the brownies are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for a few minutes.
- Pierce the brownie with a fork prior to glazing for better absorption. Drizzle the prepared orange glaze over the cooled brownies, allowing it to set for a few minutes.
- Cut into 9 squares and serve.
Video
Notes
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting. This helps in achieving a smoother and more consistent batter.
- Zesting Technique: When grating the orange zest, avoid grating the white pith beneath the orange peel as it can impart bitterness. Aim for only the flavorful outer orange layer.
- Even Distribution: When pouring the batter into the pan, spread it evenly using a spatula. This ensures the brownies bake uniformly, resulting in a consistent texture throughout.
- Testing for Doneness: Use a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center of the brownies to check for doneness. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the brownies are ready.
- Cooling Before Glazing: Allow the brownies to cool slightly in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper. This helps in easier handling and prevents them from breaking.
- Piercing with a Fork: Before applying the glaze, lightly pierce the surface of the warm brownies with a fork. This allows the glaze to seep into the brownies, enhancing their citrus flavor.
- Glazing Technique: Drizzle the orange glaze over the brownies while they are still warm, allowing the glaze to spread naturally. This creates a beautifully glazed finish.
- Chilling for Neater Slices: For cleaner cuts, refrigerate the glazed brownies for about 30 minutes before slicing. This helps in achieving neater edges when cutting into squares.
- Storage Tips: Store the leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate them for a longer shelf life. They can also be frozen for several weeks.