Cranberry-Orange Brownies are a delightful twist on the classic dessert. These fudgy brownies are bursting with the sweet-tart flavors of fresh cranberries and the zesty brightness of orange. With a combination of chocolate chips and a hint of orange blossom water, these treats offer a unique taste experience that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or simply indulging yourself, these brownies are sure to impress everyone who tries them.

What You’ll Need for Cranberry-Orange Brownies

To whip up these delicious brownies, gather the following ingredients:

3/4 cup (120 g) miniature semisweet chocolate chips, divided
1/2 cup (85 g) bittersweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter
3 large eggs
1 cup (200 g) white sugar
1 tablespoon (15 ml) orange blossom water
2 teaspoons (10 g) grated orange zest
1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla bean paste
1 1/4 cups (155 g) sifted all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon (1 g) baking soda
1 pinch kosher salt
1 1/2 cups (150 g) chopped fresh cranberries
Sea salt to taste (optional)

Step-by-Step Cranberry-Orange Brownies Recipe

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it with butter or shortening to prevent sticking.
In a large saucepan over low heat, combine 1/2 cup of miniature semisweet chocolate chips, the bittersweet chocolate chips, and the unsalted butter. Stir until melted and smooth.
Off the heat, whisk the eggs into the chocolate mixture until thoroughly combined and the chocolate is smooth.
Stir in the white sugar, orange blossom water, grated orange zest, and vanilla bean paste until well blended.
Sift the flour, baking soda, and a pinch of kosher salt into the mixture, and stir gently until just combined.
Carefully fold in the chopped fresh cranberries and the remaining 1/4 cup of miniature semisweet chocolate chips.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing it out with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 to 50 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.
As soon as they come out of the oven, sprinkle a little sea salt on top, if desired. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into 9 squares, wiping the knife clean after each cut.

How to Serve Cranberry-Orange Brownies

These Cranberry-Orange Brownies are delightful on their own but can be even better when served with a little flair. Here are some serving suggestions:

Serve Warm: Heat the brownies slightly for a few seconds in the microwave for a warm, gooey experience. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Garnish: A sprinkle of extra orange zest or a dusting of powdered sugar on top can add a beautiful finishing touch.
Pairing Drinks: Enjoy these brownies with a cup of coffee, a glass of milk, or even spiced tea to enhance the flavors.

Expert Tips for Cranberry-Orange Brownies

Cranberries: If fresh cranberries are out of season, feel free to use frozen ones. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before mixing.
Chocolate Variations: For a different flavor profile, try using dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet and bittersweet for a richer taste.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage; just ensure they are well wrapped.

Cranberry-Orange Brownies: Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute the orange blossom water?
Yes, if you can’t find orange blossom water, you can substitute it with more grated orange zest or a splash of orange juice for a similar flavor.

Can I use chocolate bars instead of chips?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can chop up bittersweet or semisweet chocolate bars for a rustic brownie texture.

How do I know when the brownies are done?
The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs sticking to it but no wet batter.

These Cranberry-Orange Brownies are sure to be a hit at your next gathering, or even for a cozy night in. With their delightful combination of flavors and textures, you’re bound to make this recipe again and again. Enjoy the rich chocolate paired with fresh cranberries and a hint of orange—it’s a mouthwatering treat that’s hard to resist!

Print Recipe

Cranberry-Orange Brownies

A delightful twist on classic brownies, these fudgy treats combine sweet-tart cranberries with zesty orange for a unique dessert experience.

Prep Time15

Cook Time50

Total Time1 5

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Keyword: brownies, Cranberry-Orange, Dessert Recipes, fudgy brownies, holiday treats

Servings: 9 squares

Calories: 250kcal

Ingredients

For the Brownie Batter

3/4 cup miniature semisweet chocolate chips, divided Divided into two amounts: 1/2 cup for melting and 1/4 cup for folding in.
1/2 cup bittersweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup unsalted butter
3 large eggs
1 cup white sugar
1 tablespoon orange blossom water
2 teaspoons grated orange zest
1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
1 1/4 cups sifted all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 pinch kosher salt
1 1/2 cups chopped fresh cranberries
Sea salt to taste (optional)

Instructions

Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it with butter or shortening to prevent sticking.
In a large saucepan over low heat, combine 1/2 cup of miniature semisweet chocolate chips, the bittersweet chocolate chips, and the unsalted butter. Stir until melted and smooth.
Off the heat, whisk the eggs into the chocolate mixture until thoroughly combined and the chocolate is smooth.
Stir in the white sugar, orange blossom water, grated orange zest, and vanilla bean paste until well blended.
Sift the flour, baking soda, and a pinch of kosher salt into the mixture, and stir gently until just combined.
Carefully fold in the chopped fresh cranberries and the remaining 1/4 cup of miniature semisweet chocolate chips.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing it out with a spatula.

Baking

Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 to 50 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.
As soon as they come out of the oven, sprinkle a little sea salt on top, if desired. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into 9 squares, wiping the knife clean after each cut.

Notes

If fresh cranberries are out of season, you can use frozen ones; just make sure to thaw and drain them well before mixing. For a richer taste, try using dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet and bittersweet. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. These can also be frozen for longer storage.