Paula Deen’s Orange Brownies Recipe
Introduction
Paula Deen’s Orange Brownies offer a delightful twist on traditional brownies with a bright, citrusy flavor. Tender and moist, these brownies are topped with a luscious orange glaze that enhances their sweet, tangy character. Perfect for a refreshing dessert or a special treat with tea.

Ingredients
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated white sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, at room temperature
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure orange extract (or orange oil)
- 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
- 1 cup powdered sugar (measured then sifted)
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 13×9-inch baking pan with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and salt until well combined.
- Step 3: Add the softened butter, eggs, orange extract, and 1 teaspoon grated orange zest to the dry ingredients. Beat with a hand mixer until the batter is smooth and well blended.
- Step 4: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the brownies turn light golden brown and are set in the center.
- Step 5: Remove the brownies from the oven and gently pierce the surface with a skewer or fork to allow the glaze to soak in.
- Step 6: To make the glaze, combine the sifted powdered sugar, orange juice, and finely grated orange zest in a bowl. Stir until smooth and adjust the consistency with extra orange juice if needed for pouring.
- Step 7: Pour the glaze evenly over the warmed brownies and let them cool completely in the pan.
- Step 8: Once cooled, cut the brownies into 24 squares and serve.
Tips & Variations
- For a stronger citrus flavor, add additional orange zest to the batter or sprinkle some zest on top of the glaze.
- Substitute butter with equal parts melted coconut oil for a subtle tropical twist.
- Try adding chopped nuts or white chocolate chips to the batter for extra texture and flavor.
Storage
Store the orange brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving. Reheat briefly in the microwave to refresh the glaze’s softness.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh orange juice instead of orange extract?
While fresh orange juice adds natural flavor, it lacks the concentrated aroma of orange extract. Using both allows for a more vibrant orange taste, but if you prefer, you can omit the extract and increase fresh juice slightly in the glaze.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
The brownies are ready when the top is light golden brown and a toothpick or skewer inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter. The brownies will firm up as they cool.
PrintPaula Deen’s Orange Brownies Recipe
Paula Deen’s Orange Brownies are a delightful twist on classic brownies, featuring a bright citrus flavor infused with orange extract and zest. These moist, buttery brownies are topped with a tangy orange glaze that perfectly complements their rich sweetness, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 brownies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Brownies
- 1½ cups all purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated white sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, at room temperature
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure orange extract (or orange oil)
- 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar (measured then sifted)
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 13×9-inch baking pan with nonstick spray to ensure the brownies will release easily after baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt until well combined, creating an even base for the batter.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Incorporate the room-temperature butter, eggs, orange extract, and grated orange zest into the dry ingredients. Use a hand mixer to beat the mixture until it is smooth and thoroughly blended.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the brownies are light golden brown and set. Test doneness by piercing the top with a skewer or fork; it should come out clean.
- Prepare the Orange Glaze: While the brownies bake, combine the powdered sugar, freshly squeezed orange juice, and finely grated orange zest in a bowl. Stir until smooth, adding a little extra juice if necessary to achieve a pourable glaze consistency.
- Glaze and Cool: Once the brownies come out of the oven, pierce the entire top surface with a skewer or fork to help the glaze soak in. Pour the prepared orange glaze evenly over the warm brownies. Allow the brownies to cool completely so the glaze can set.
- Serve: Once cooled, cut the brownies into 24 equal squares and serve. Enjoy the bright, citrusy twist on a classic dessert!
Notes
- Room temperature butter ensures better blending and a tender brownie texture.
- If you prefer a stronger orange flavor, consider adding an extra teaspoon of orange zest to the batter.
- Make sure to sift the powdered sugar to avoid lumps in the glaze.
- Allow brownies to cool completely before cutting for clean edges and a set glaze.
- These brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Keywords: Paula Deen, orange brownies, orange glaze, citrus dessert, homemade brownies, sweet treat

