Chocolate Orange Brownie Cookies
Indulge in the delightful combination of rich chocolate and zesty orange with these Chocolate Orange Brownie Cookies. They are not just a treat for your taste buds; they also bring a sense of warmth and nostalgia, reminiscent of the classic chocolate orange candies we all know and love. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself on a cozy afternoon, these cookies are sure to impress.
Top Reasons to Make Chocolate Orange Brownie Cookies
- Decadent Flavor: The pairing of chocolate and orange creates a harmonious balance that is both refreshing and indulgent.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Perfect Texture: Soft, chewy, and fudgy, these cookies give you the best of both worlds when it comes to brownie and cookie textures.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant orange zest enhances the visual appeal, making them an attractive treat for gatherings.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a dessert or a sweet snack any time of day.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup plus 2 and 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (be sure not to pack your flour)
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons whole milk
- 7 ounces orange chocolate, chopped (I used Lindt intense orange, but also linked to some other great brands in my post)
Tools of the Trade
- Mixing Bowls: For combining your wet and dry ingredients.
- Whisk: To ensure your ingredients are well combined.
- Baking Sheet: For placing your cookie dough before baking.
- Parchment Paper: To prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Cooling Rack: To cool your cookies completely after baking.
Chocolate Orange Brownie Cookies: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy removal of your cookies.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate and Butter
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped semi-sweet chocolate and unsalted butter. Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until melted and smooth.
Step 4: Mix the Sugars and Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the melted chocolate mixture, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and orange zest. Stir until combined.
Step 5: Add Eggs and Milk
Add the eggs and whole milk to the mixture, whisking until fully incorporated and smooth.
Step 6: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
Step 7: Fold in the Orange Chocolate
Gently fold in the chopped orange chocolate, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.
Step 8: Scoop and Bake
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a couple of inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still slightly soft.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely. Enjoy your Chocolate Orange Brownie Cookies warm or at room temperature!
Quick Replacement Ideas
- For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
- Replace semi-sweet chocolate with dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.
- If you don’t have orange chocolate, feel free to use regular chocolate and increase the orange zest to enhance the flavor.
Behind the Recipe
The inspiration for these Chocolate Orange Brownie Cookies comes from the classic combination of chocolate and orange that has delighted taste buds for generations. The addition of orange zest brings a burst of freshness that perfectly complements the deep, rich chocolate. After experimenting with various ratios and ingredients, this recipe strikes the ideal balance between a cookie and brownie, resulting in a fudgy yet chewy treat. The use of both semi-sweet and orange chocolate elevates the flavor profile, making each bite a delightful experience.
Shelf Life & Storage
These Chocolate Orange Brownie Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Simply place cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, and they will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds for that fresh-baked taste.
Your Questions, Answered
Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but keep in mind that it will make the cookies sweeter. Adjust the sugar accordingly to balance the sweetness.
What can I use instead of orange zest?
If you don’t have orange zest, you can substitute it with lemon zest for a different citrus flavor, or simply omit it if you prefer a chocolate-only cookie.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Just allow it to come to room temperature before scooping and baking.
What’s the best way to enjoy these cookies?
These cookies are delightful on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee or tea. You can also serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special dessert!
Before You Go
If you’re looking for a cookie that marries the richness of chocolate with the bright notes of citrus, look no further than these Chocolate Orange Brownie Cookies. They are bound to become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire. So gather your ingredients, invite a friend or two, and dive into the delightful world of chocolate and orange. Happy baking!
Chocolate Orange Brownie Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy removal of your cookies.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped semi-sweet chocolate and unsalted butter. Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until melted and smooth.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the melted chocolate mixture, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and orange zest. Stir until combined.
- Add the eggs and whole milk to the mixture, whisking until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
- Gently fold in the chopped orange chocolate, ensuring it's evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.
- Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a couple of inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still slightly soft.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely. Enjoy your Chocolate Orange Brownie Cookies warm or at room temperature!
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
- Replace semi-sweet chocolate with dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.
