Yellow cake squares with orange toppings.

Orange Blondies

08/31/2025 | Bonia Bakery |

Bright, buttery, and full of citrusy sunshine, these orange blondies are the perfect treat when you want something sweet, simple, and just a little different. Unlike traditional lemon bars, they have a rich, tender chew with a bright, fresh orange flavor that makes every bite feel like a little burst of sunshine.

I love making these on a lazy weekend afternoon, when the oven is warm and the smell of fresh citrus fills the kitchen. They’re easy enough for beginners, but impressive enough to share with friends or family when you want a dessert that feels special without too much fuss. The tart orange glaze on top adds the perfect finishing touch—balancing sweetness with a refreshing pop of flavor.

These blondies are versatile too. Cut into small squares for a casual snack, or dress them up with a few candied orange peel slices for a pretty presentation. Either way, they’re guaranteed to become a repeat favorite in your baking rotation.

These orange blondies are buttery, chewy, and bursting with fresh citrus flavor. They’re a simple, satisfying treat for a weekend bake, a special snack, or just because you need a little sunshine in your day.

Orange Blondies with Tart Orange Glaze (Makes 9 blondies)

Blondie Batter:

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • Zest of 2 large oranges (rub into sugar for maximum flavor)
  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ tsp orange extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp baking powder

Tart Orange Glaze:

  • 1 tbsp fresh orange juice (add more if needed to thin)
  • ¼–⅓ cup powdered sugar (start with ¼ cup, taste, adjust)
  • ¼ tsp vanilla extract
  • A tiny pinch of salt
  • Optional: 1 drop orange extract

Instructions

1. Prep Oven & Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment.

2. Infuse Sugar with Zest
In a large bowl, mix sugar and orange zest. Rub together with your fingers until fragrant and slightly damp—this releases the essential oils for maximum flavor.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients
Add melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and orange extract to the sugar-zest mixture. Whisk until smooth and combined.

4. Add Dry Ingredients
Stir in flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

5. Bake
Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 23–28 minutes, until edges are golden and the center is just set. Don’t overbake—you want them soft and chewy.

6. Cool
Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan before glazing.

7. Make the Glaze
Whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, vanilla, salt, and optional orange extract until smooth and pourable. Adjust with more sugar or juice as needed.

8. Glaze
Pour the glaze over the cooled blondies. Let set before slicing.

Optional Garnish Ideas:

  • Candied orange peel slices for a pretty, citrusy touch