Name: Blood Orange Curd Brownies
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Freshly Squeezed Blood Orange Juice; ¼ teaspoon Citric Acid (or 2 tablespoons lemon juice); 2 large Eggs (at room temperature); 4 large Egg Yolks (at room temperature); 1 teaspoon Blood Orange Zest (very finely grated/chopped); ½ cup Granulated Sugar; pinch Fine Sea Salt; ½ cup Unsalted Butter ((1 stick)); ¾ cup Granulated Sugar; 1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil; 1 large Egg (at room temperature); 1 large Egg Yolk (at room temperature); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; ½ cup Dutch Process Cocoa Powder (sifted); ⅓ cup All-Purpose Flour; ¼ teaspoon Fine Sea Salt

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There’s something magical about the vibrant colors of the winter citrus season, and that magic comes alive in my kitchen when I make Blood Orange Curd Brownies. Each time I prepare this delightful dessert, I’m reminded of the cozy days spent in the kitchen, stirring up something sweet to share with family and friends. The rich, decadent chocolate brownies paired with the tangy, creamy blood orange curd create a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible. It’s a dessert that never fails to impress and always sparks joy!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 10 mins

Prep Time:
45 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
220 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Saucepan, Oven, Large Pot, Grater, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Food Processor, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Whisk

Why You Need This Blood Orange Curd Brownies

Unique Flavor Combination

One of the main reasons I adore Blood Orange Curd Brownies is the unexpected harmony between the rich chocolate brownie base and the zesty blood orange curd. The tartness of the curd cuts through the sweetness of the brownies, creating a perfect balance that keeps your taste buds intrigued.

Visual Appeal

Not only do these brownies taste divine, but they also look stunning. The deep maroon hue of the blood orange curd contrasts beautifully with the dark chocolate, making it a striking centerpiece for any dessert table. It’s a feast for the eyes as much as it is for the palate.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a birthday celebration, or just a cozy night at home, Blood Orange Curd Brownies fit the bill. They’re sophisticated enough for fancy events yet simple enough for a casual evening. I love bringing these along to potlucks or serving them after a family dinner.

Versatile Recipe

This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily switch up the citrus by using lemons or other oranges, which means you can enjoy it year-round. The ability to customize it makes it a staple in my dessert repertoire.

Great for Leftovers

Unlike many desserts, these brownies get even better after a day in the fridge as the flavors meld beautifully. The tangy curd and fudgy brownie create a rich experience that’s hard to resist, making them perfect for meal prep or snacks throughout the week.

Fun to Make

The process of making Blood Orange Curd Brownies is as enjoyable as the end result. From zesting fresh oranges to whipping up a silky curd, it’s a delightful cooking adventure. I find joy in the little things, and watching the transformation of ingredients into a beautiful dessert never gets old.

What’s In This Blood Orange Curd Brownies

The ingredients in Blood Orange Curd Brownies are carefully selected to create a rich and complex flavor profile. The combination of chocolate and citrus not only provides a unique taste experience but also blends wonderfully in texture. The key players include fresh blood orange juice, which adds a vibrant zing, and quality chocolate that brings a deep, decadent flavor.

1 cup freshly squeezed blood orange juice – The star of this dessert, providing a refreshing and tangy flavor that balances the sweetness.
¼ teaspoon citric acid, or 2 tablespoons lemon juice – Enhances the brightness of the blood orange and helps the curd set.
2 large eggs, at room temperature – Essential for creating a rich texture in the curd.
4 large egg yolks, at room temperature – Adds richness and helps thicken the curd.
1 teaspoon blood orange zest, very finely grated/chopped – Amplifies the citrus flavor and adds a fragrant note.
½ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the curd and balances the acidity of the citrus.
pinch fine sea salt – Enhances all the flavors.
½ cup unsalted butter – Adds a rich and creamy texture to both the curd and brownies.
¾ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the brownie layer and creates a fudgy texture.
1 tablespoon vegetable oil – Helps keep the brownies moist and tender.
1 large egg, at room temperature – Binds the brownie ingredients together.
1 large egg yolk, at room temperature – Adds richness to the brownie batter.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Introduces a warm flavor that complements the chocolate.
½ cup Dutch process cocoa powder, sifted – The main flavoring for the brownie layer, giving it that rich chocolate taste.
⅓ cup all-purpose flour – Provides the structure for the brownies.
¼ teaspoon fine sea salt – Balances the sweetness and brings out the chocolate flavor.

How to Assemble Blood Orange Curd Brownies

Assembling Blood Orange Curd Brownies is an adventure in itself, filled with exciting steps that lead to a truly satisfying dessert. Follow these detailed instructions for a successful outcome that will leave everyone raving about your baking skills.

Zest one or two of the oranges before juicing; set the zest aside for later. Juice the oranges, then strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove any pith bits or pieces of flesh. You’ll need 1 cup of freshly squeezed juice to start. The juice should be bright and fragrant, bursting with citrus aroma.
Simmer the orange juice in a medium saucepan set over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until reduced by half, about 10 to 15 minutes. You should have 1/2 cup of juice. Add the citric acid and stir until dissolved. The juice should thicken slightly and deepen in color, becoming syrupy.
To make the curd layer, prepare a double boiler by filling a saucepan with an inch or two of water and bringing it to a simmer. Set a medium heat-proof bowl (I prefer pyrex over thin stainless for this since it conducts heat more slowly and evenly). The bottom of the bowl should sit over, but not touch the water.
Whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, sugar, and orange zest in the bowl. Whisk in 1/2 cup of your reduced orange juice. The mixture should be smooth and well-combined, with a lovely orange hue.
Continue to cook, whisking regularly and adjusting the heat as necessary so the water remains at a gentle simmer, until the curd noticeably thickens. At this point, it should read approximately 165 degrees F on an instant-read thermometer. Remove from heat and set aside. If you notice some chunks in your curd (which can happen if the temperature gets too hot too quickly), just press it through a fine mesh sieve to remove any stray bits of egg.
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly butter and line an 8-by-8-inch square baking pan with parchment (the butter will keep the parchment from moving when you spread in the batter). Lightly butter the parchment to ensure easy removal later.
To make the brownie layer, melt the butter in a small saucepan set over medium heat (you can also reuse your double boiler setup if you have a second bowl that works). When it is completely melted and starts to bubble, remove it from heat. Add the sugar and stir until smooth and paste-like. The texture should be glossy and thick.
Whisk in the oil, egg, and egg yolk, whisking vigorously for a full minute. The mixture should be well-blended, with a light color.
Whisk in the vanilla extract, then gently fold in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a fudgy texture. The batter should be thick and chocolatey.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Rather than dumping it all in the middle, it’s easier to spread the thick batter if you drop dollops of batter around the pan. Using a thin offset spatula, spread the batter into an even layer. This will ensure even baking.
Bake for 15 to 17 minutes until the top appears uniformly set, though a toothpick tester will still be quite gooey. The edges should look firm while the center remains soft.
Remove from the oven and pour the orange curd on top, carefully spreading it into an even layer (since the brownie is still somewhat undercooked, be gentle here so as not to pull up the chocolate batter). The curd should sit beautifully on top.
Return to the oven for 5 to 7 minutes or until the curd layer appears evenly set. Remove from heat and place the pan on a wire rack to cool for about an hour, then refrigerate for at least an hour or overnight until fully set. The chilling helps firm up the curd.
Lift the brownies out of the pan using the parchment as handles. Cut into 16 squares. For the cleanest cuts, run a large chef’s knife under hot water to warm the blade, then wipe with a tiny bit of oil or butter. Clean off the blade (and reheat/oil as needed) between each cut. The squares should look neat and appetizing.
Brownies will keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Things Worth Knowing

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for the best texture in your brownies and curd.
Juice Fresh Oranges: Freshly squeezed juice makes all the difference in flavor compared to bottled juice.
Double Boiler Method: This technique provides gentle heat for the curd, preventing it from becoming scrambled.
Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool thoroughly to achieve the perfect chewy texture before cutting.

How to Switch It Up

There are so many fun ways to switch up Blood Orange Curd Brownies. Here are some tips to get your creativity flowing!

Storage: Keep any leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing: These brownies can be frozen! Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing for up to a month.
Variations: Feel free to experiment with different citrus fruits like lemon, lime, or grapefruit to create your unique twist.
Serving Suggestions: Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Layering: Consider creating a layered dessert by adding whipped cream or mousse between layers of brownies.
Mini Versions: Make mini brownies using a muffin tin for bite-sized treats that are perfect for parties.

What to Serve Alongside Blood Orange Curd Brownies

Pairing your Blood Orange Curd Brownies with the right accompaniments can elevate the dessert experience. Here are some ideas to consider:

Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh raspberries or strawberries for a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate.
Citrus Sorbet: A scoop of citrus sorbet offers a light, fruity complement to the brownies.
Ice Cream: Vanilla or orange-flavored ice cream pairs beautifully to add a creamy texture.
Espresso: A shot of espresso or a strong cup of coffee enhances the chocolate flavor and balances the sweetness.
Seasonal Salads: A light winter salad featuring citrus and greens can provide a refreshing palate cleanser after the rich dessert.
Cheese Board: Create a cheese board with mild cheeses such as goat cheese or cream cheese to serve alongside the brownies.
Warm Beverages: Enjoy with a warm beverage like chai tea or hot chocolate for a cozy dessert experience.

FAQ

Blood orange curd has a distinct flavor profile due to the unique sweetness and slight berry-like notes of blood oranges. The color also tends to be more vibrant, ranging from a pale mauve to a deep maroon, making it visually striking. This difference in flavor and appearance makes blood orange curd a delightful twist on traditional orange curd, enhancing the overall experience of desserts.

While you can use store-bought orange curd in a pinch, making your own blood orange curd adds a fresh, homemade touch that elevates the Blood Orange Curd Brownies. The flavor is more vibrant and the texture smoother than many store options, which often contain preservatives. Plus, making your own allows you to control the sweetness and acidity, making it perfectly suited for your brownies.

To test the doneness of your brownies, look for a uniformly set top that appears slightly shiny. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. Remember that the brownies will continue to cook slightly as they cool, so aim for a slightly underbaked texture for that fudgy consistency we all love.

Absolutely! While blood oranges create a beautiful flavor profile, you can easily substitute with other citrus fruits like lemons or regular oranges. Adjust the amount of sugar based on the tartness of the fruit you choose. This flexibility allows you to experiment and create your own unique variations while still achieving that wonderful chocolate and citrus balance.

Conclusion

Blood Orange Curd Brownies are not only a visual treat but also a culinary delight that perfectly marries the rich flavors of chocolate with the zesty brightness of citrus. This recipe is truly special because it offers a unique and refreshing twist on traditional brownies, making them stand out in any dessert lineup. I encourage you to give them a try—it’s a fun baking experience that results in a decadent treat everyone will love. So gather your ingredients and enjoy the delightful process of creating these delicious brownies!