The bright, citrusy aroma of fresh oranges fills the kitchen, instantly uplifting my spirits on a gloomy day. When life gets a bit overwhelming, I escape to the comfort of my baking routine, where the magic of simple ingredients transforms into something special. That’s how I stumbled upon these Orange Almond Blondies—a delightful twist on the classic treat that are bursting with zesty flavor and nutty goodness.
In just a little over twenty minutes, you can create a batch of these golden squares that capture the essence of sunshine itself. The combination of buttery richness and the fragrant notes of orange and almond not only makes for a crowd-pleasing dessert but also brings a personal touch to any occasion.
Imagine slicing into these delightful blondies, drizzled with a glossy orange glaze that adds a touch of sophistication without any fuss. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long week or impressing friends at a gathering, these blondies are here to impress. Let’s get started on this easy recipe that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds!
Why are Orange Almond Blondies so special?
Bright, Citrus Flavor: The vibrant orange juice and zest elevate traditional blondies into a refreshing treat that dances on your palate.
Nutty Goodness: Almond extract adds a unique twist, providing depth and richness that complements the citrus perfectly.
Quick and Easy: In just 20-25 minutes, you’ll have a delicious batch ready to enjoy—perfect for last-minute dessert cravings!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: These blondies are sure to impress at gatherings, bringing smiles with every bite. Whether you’re baking for a friend or just indulging yourself, they’re a guaranteed hit.
Glaze Perfection: The glossy orange glaze not only adds a touch of elegance but enhances the flavor, making them irresistible. Serve them warm or cold; they’re delightful either way!
Orange Almond Blondies Ingredients
• To create your delightful Orange Almond Blondies, gather these simple ingredients!
For the Blondie Batter
• Unsalted Butter – 1 stick (8 Tablespoons) for a rich, creamy base that enhances flavor.
• Granulated Sugar – ¾ cup to sweeten and create that perfect chewy texture.
• Large Egg – 1 egg to bind everything together and ensure a fluffy, moist result.
• Orange Juice – 3 Tablespoons provide the essential citrus zing in these Orange Almond Blondies.
• Zest of 1 Orange – Adds fragrance and enhances the flavor profile beautifully.
• Salt – ¼ teaspoon balances the sweetness and elevates all the flavors.
• Almond Extract – ½ teaspoon to introduce a nutty undertone that pairs wonderfully with orange.
• All-Purpose Flour – 1 cup to give structure and create the perfect blondie texture.
For the Orange Glaze
• Powdered Sugar – 2-3 cups depending on your preferred sweetness level; it creates a lovely creamy glaze.
• Orange Juice – 5-6 Tablespoons to adjust the glaze consistency, making it easy to drizzle over your blondies.
How to Make Orange Almond Blondies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F. Generously line or grease a standard 8″x8″ baking pan and set aside to ensure easy removal later.
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Mix together the melted butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until smooth and uniform. This step creates a lovely, creamy base for your blondies.
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Combine the egg, orange juice, orange zest, salt, and almond extract into the butter-sugar mixture. Mix well until fully incorporated, then add in the flour and stir until no dry streaks remain.
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Transfer the batter into your prepared baking pan, smoothing it out evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the center is barely set—avoid overbaking for the chewiest results!
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Cool the blondies completely in the pan before adding the glaze—this will help the glaze stick and enhance the flavor.
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Whisk together the powdered sugar and orange juice in a medium-sized bowl. Adjust the consistency as needed by adding more powdered sugar or orange juice until you achieve a smooth glaze.
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Drizzle the glaze over your cooled blondies once set. Allow the glaze to firm up a bit before slicing and serving—this will make for cleaner cuts and beautifully decorated squares.
Optional: For an added touch, sprinkle some sliced almonds on top of the glaze for extra crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Orange Almond Blondies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these blondies to match your taste preferences and dietary needs!
- Nut-Free: Substitute almond extract with vanilla extract and omit any nuts for a smoother, allergy-friendly blondie.
- Chocolate Lovers: Fold in half a cup of white or dark chocolate chips for a decadent twist that adds richness to the zesty flavors.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour in place of all-purpose flour for a delightful treat suitable for gluten-sensitive folks.
- Dried Fruits: Add chopped dried cranberries or apricots for a chewy texture and a burst of sweetness that elevates every bite.
- Vegan: Replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use coconut oil instead of butter for a plant-based version.
- Spiced Delight: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced touch that pairs beautifully with the orange and almond flavors.
- Coconut Bliss: Mix in shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical flavor that adds both texture and sweetness.
- Heat it Up: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeños for an unexpected spicy kick that completely transforms each bite!
Explore these variations to elevate your Orange Almond Blondies into endless delightful treats!
Helpful Tricks for Orange Almond Blondies
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh orange juice and zest provide the brightest flavor; avoid bottled juice for the best taste.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the flour, mix just until no dry streaks remain. Overmixing can lead to dense blondies.
- Watch the Baking Time: Begin checking for doneness at 20 minutes. The center should be set but still slightly soft to keep blondies chewy.
- Proper Cooling: Let the blondies cool completely in the pan to ensure the glaze adheres well and slices cleanly.
- Glaze Consistency: Aim for a pourable yet thick glaze. Adjust by adding more powdered sugar or juice until you reach your desired texture.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They taste great even on day three!
What to Serve with Orange Almond Blondies?
The golden hues of these blondies are perfect for brightening up any gathering, especially when you add a few delicious sides to complement them.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla provides a rich contrast and enhances the orange flavor with its smooth texture.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or blueberries add a vibrant touch and a pop of freshness that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of coffee amplify the nutty almond undertones and are the quintessential pairing for dessert time.
- Whipped Cream: Light, fluffy whipped cream creates a heavenly combination when dolloped atop the blondies, adding extra richness and indulgence.
- Nut Mix: A crunchy nut mix not only adds texture but brings earthy flavors, enhancing the overall taste experience.
- Citrus Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed citrus fruits can provide a bright, tangy contrast that highlights the orange notes in the blondies.
- Chocolate Drizzle: A warm or cold chocolate drizzle adds a decadent touch—who doesn’t love the combination of chocolate and orange?
- Mint Tea: Brewed mint tea refreshes the palate after enjoying the sweet blondies, making it a soothing end to your meal.
- Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel sauce introduces a sweet, buttery layer that pairs beautifully with the blonde base and glaze.
- Almond Milk: A glass of almond milk is a delightful way to drink with these blondies, reinforcing the nutty flavor while being a lighter option.
Make Ahead Options
These Orange Almond Blondies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy days! You can prepare the blondie batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients, then storing the raw batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply spread the chilled batter into your prepared baking pan and follow the usual baking instructions. Alternatively, bake the blondies ahead of time and store them at room temperature for up to 3 days. To maintain their delectable texture, ensure they are completely cool before wrapping them in plastic wrap. For the finishing touch, glaze them just before serving; this keeps the icing fresh and vibrant! Enjoy your homemade treats without any last-minute stress!
How to Store and Freeze Orange Almond Blondies
Room Temperature: Keep your blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will help retain their delightful softness.
Fridge: If you prefer to prolong their freshness, store them in the fridge for up to a week in an airtight container. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your blondies in a single layer, wrapped in plastic wrap and then in foil, for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Reheating: To enjoy warm blondies, microwave individual squares for about 10-15 seconds. This will bring back their lovely softness and enhance the flavors.
Orange Almond Blondies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe oranges for my Orange Almond Blondies?
Absolutely! Look for oranges that feel heavy for their size and have a firm skin without any dark spots or blemishes. A slightly shiny appearance often indicates freshness, so go for those!
What’s the best way to store leftover blondies?
Very! Keep your leftover Orange Almond Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, storing them in the fridge will keep them fresh for up to a week.
Can I freeze my Orange Almond Blondies?
Yes, you can! For optimal freezing, wrap your blondies individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a sturdy freezer bag or a container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To thaw, just let them sit at room temperature for a bit and enjoy!
What should I do if my blondies come out too dry?
Oh no, that can happen! If your Orange Almond Blondies are dry, it could be due to overbaking. Make sure to check for doneness around 20 minutes and remember that the center should be barely set. If they are too crumbly after baking, you can serve them with a drizzle of extra glaze for added moisture!
Are these blondies suitable for those with nut allergies?
While the primary ingredients in the blondies themselves are nut-free, the almond extract might cause concern for those with nut sensitivities. Absolutely use vanilla extract in its place for a safe and equally delicious option!
How do I adjust the glaze consistency for my Orange Almond Blondies?
For the perfect glaze, start with the specified amounts of powdered sugar and orange juice. If it’s too thick, stir in a teaspoon of orange juice at a time until it reaches your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar gradually until you get that lovely, pourable glaze!
Irresistible Orange Almond Blondies That Brighten Your Day
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a standard 8"x8" baking pan and set aside.
- Mix together the melted butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until smooth.
- Combine the egg, orange juice, orange zest, salt, and almond extract into the mixture. Mix well, then add in the flour and stir until no dry streaks remain.
- Transfer the batter into your prepared baking pan, smoothing it out evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the center is barely set.
- Cool the blondies completely in the pan before adding the glaze.
- Whisk together powdered sugar and orange juice in a bowl. Adjust the consistency as needed.
- Drizzle the glaze over your cooled blondies and allow it to firm up before slicing.