Homemade Blood Orange Curd Brownies Recipe: A Zesty Sweet Treat

Sweet chocolate dreams collide with zesty citrus in these blood orange curd brownies that promise a delightful twist on a classic dessert.

The rich, fudgy chocolate base perfectly complements the bright, tangy blood orange curd swirled throughout.

Each bite delivers an unexpected burst of flavor that dances between deep cocoa and sunny citrus notes.

The contrast of dark brownie and vibrant orange creates a stunning visual treat that’s as impressive as it is delicious.

Decadent yet refreshing, these brownies elevate your dessert game with minimal effort.

Let your taste buds embark on a luxurious journey of indulgence that will leave everyone craving more.

FAQs

• What are blood oranges and how do they differ from regular oranges?

Blood oranges are a unique citrus variety with deep red flesh and a more complex, slightly berry-like flavor. They’re typically sweeter and less acidic than standard oranges, with a beautiful crimson color that comes from anthocyanin pigments.

• Can I substitute regular oranges if I can't find blood oranges?

While you can use regular oranges, the flavor and vibrant color will be different. Blood oranges provide a distinctive taste and stunning color that’s crucial to this recipe’s character. If substituting, you’ll lose the signature deep red hue and nuanced flavor profile.

• How do I know when the blood orange curd is properly cooked?

The curd is ready when it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, and when you can draw a line through it with your finger that holds its shape.

Blood Orange Curd Brownies Reasons They’re a Must-Try

• Dive into a tangy-sweet sensation where blood orange's zesty brightness transforms classic brownies into a gourmet dessert experience.
• Learn professional-level baking skills by creating a layered dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a high-end bakery, perfect for impressing guests.
• Break free from traditional brownie recipes by introducing a luxurious citrus curd that adds unexpected complexity and sophistication to a beloved classic.
• Achieve restaurant-quality results with straightforward steps that don't require advanced pastry training, making this recipe accessible for home bakers of all skill levels.

What Goes in Blood Orange Curd Brownies

• All-Purpose Flour: A key ingredient that provides structure to the rich brownie base.
• Cocoa Powder: Delivers deep chocolate flavor and dark color to the brownies.
• Salt: Enhances the overall taste and balances the sweetness of the dessert.

• Butter, Oil: Contribute moisture and richness to create a fudgy brownie texture.
• Eggs, Vanilla Extract: Add binding, depth of flavor, and smooth consistency to the batter.

• Blood Orange Juice: Provides a vibrant citrus flavor and creates the signature curd component.
• Sugar: Sweetens the curd and helps with proper thickening and consistency.
• Eggs: Act as a natural thickening agent for the smooth, creamy curd.

Equipment for Luscious Brownies at Home

• Double Boiler: Essential for gently cooking blood orange curd without scorching.
• 8-inch Baking Pan: Perfect size for creating deliciously rich brownies.
• Parchment Paper: Key for easy brownie removal and clean cutting.
• Whisk: Great for smoothly blending curd ingredients and mixing brownie batter.
• Saucepan: Needed for reducing blood orange juice to concentrate flavor.
• Mixing Bowls: Crucial for combining brownie and curd ingredients.
• Sharp Knife: Helps create clean, precise brownie cuts after chilling.
• Measuring Cups/Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient proportions for perfect texture.
• Spatula: Helps spread batter and curd evenly in the pan.

Stepwise Instructions for Orange Curd Brownies

Step 1: Reduce Blood Orange Juice

Strain fresh blood orange juice into a saucepan.

Simmer the juice over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces by half.

This concentration will intensify the citrusy flavor and create a more powerful taste profile.

Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 2: Create Silky Blood Orange Curd

Grab a double boiler or create a makeshift one with a heatproof bowl over simmering water.

• Eggs
• Sugar
• Reduced blood orange juice

Continuously stir the mixture, cooking until it thickens to a custard-like consistency.

The curd should coat the back of a spoon smoothly.

Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 3: Prepare Baking Pan

Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing slight overhang for easy removal.

Butter the parchment paper generously to prevent sticking.

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Step 4: Create Brownie Base

In a large mixing bowl, melt butter and sugar together.

• Vegetable oil
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract

Gently fold in dry ingredients until just combined.

Avoid overmixing to keep brownies tender.

Step 5: Initial Brownie Baking

Spread brownie batter evenly in the prepared pan.

Bake for 15-17 minutes until the surface is just set but not completely firm.

The center should look slightly underbaked.

Step 6: Layer Blood Orange Curd

Carefully pour the cooled blood orange curd over the partially baked brownie layer.

Use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring complete coverage.

Step 7: Final Baking

Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes.

The curd should set but remain slightly jiggly in the center.

Step 8: Cool and Set

Remove from oven and let brownies cool at room temperature for one hour.

Transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least one additional hour.

This helps the layers firm up and makes cutting easier.

Step 9: Slice and Serve

Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the brownies from the pan.

Cut into squares using a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts for neat edges.

Tips for Swirling and Baking Perfect Brownies

• Reduce blood orange juice to create a more concentrated, vibrant flavor that cuts through the rich chocolate base.
• Use a double boiler and stir constantly when making the curd to ensure smooth, silky texture without egg scrambling.
• Store brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain the bright citrus flavor and fudgy consistency.
• Use a hot, clean knife wiped between each slice to get clean, sharp edges when serving the brownies.
• Allow brownies to cool completely before cutting to help the curd set and prevent messy, runny slices.

Brownie Variations with Blood Orange Curd

• Lemon Zest Variation: Replace blood orange juice with fresh lemon juice and add lemon zest for a tangy citrus brownie curd experience.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free blend to create a celiac-friendly dessert that maintains rich chocolate flavor.
• Vegan Adaptation: Use coconut oil instead of butter, flax eggs in place of regular eggs, and dairy-free chocolate for a plant-based version of these decadent brownies.
• Low-Sugar Alternative: Substitute sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, and use dark cocoa powder to reduce overall sugar content while keeping intense chocolate notes.

Serving Brownies for Dessert or Snacks

• Sweet Citrus Companion: Pair these decadent brownies with a scoop of blood orange sorbet for a refreshing contrast.
• Elegant Dessert Plating: Dust brownies with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh blood orange segments for a sophisticated presentation.
• Wine & Dessert Pairing: Serve alongside a chilled glass of moscato or a light dessert wine to complement the citrusy notes.
• Brunch Star: Cut into smaller squares and include on a brunch dessert board with other sweet and tangy treats for a delightful spread.

Storage for Blood Orange Brownies

• Store brownies in airtight container for up to 5 days, placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before serving.
• Keep brownies covered at room temperature for 1-2 days maximum, ensuring they're away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
• Warm individual pieces in microwave for 10-15 seconds or in oven at 325F for 5 minutes to restore soft texture and enhance flavors.

Blood Orange Curd Brownies Recipe

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4.7 from 13 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Blood orange curd brownies blend rich chocolate with zesty citrus in a luscious dessert. Mediterranean-inspired treat offers a delightful twist you’ll savor to the last crumb.

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Ingredients

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Blood Orange Curd

• 1 cup (240 g) fresh blood orange juice
• 1 teaspoon blood orange zest
• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon citric acid or 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 large eggs at room temperature
• 4 large egg yolks at room temperature
• 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter
• Pinch fine sea salt

Brownie Base

• 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon (14 g) vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (50 g) Dutch process cocoa powder
• 1/3 cup (42 g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt

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Instructions

1. Intensify blood orange essence by simmering freshly strained juice in a saucepan, reducing volume by half to create a concentrated, vibrant flavor profile.
2. Craft the citrus curd by whisking eggs, sugar, and reduced juice in a double boiler, gently heating and stirring until mixture transforms into a luxurious, velvety consistency.
3. Prepare an 8-inch baking vessel by lining with buttered parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage. Preheat oven to precise 350°F for optimal baking conditions.
4. Create decadent brownie foundation by melting butter with sugar, incorporating oil seamlessly, then introducing eggs and vanilla extract. Delicately fold in dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Distribute brownie batter evenly across prepared pan, ensuring uniform thickness. Bake for 15-17 minutes, watching for subtle set without overcooking.
6. Carefully spread blood orange curd across partially baked brownie layer, creating a vibrant, tangy surface.
7. Return pan to oven, allowing curd to set for an additional 5-7 minutes, watching for slight firmness without cracking.
8. Allow dessert to cool at room temperature for one hour, then refrigerate for minimum one hour to achieve perfect slicing consistency and flavor melding.

Notes

• Juice Intensity Boost the blood orange flavor by reducing the juice, which concentrates its tangy and sweet notes for a more robust taste.
• Curd Consistency Watch carefully while cooking to achieve a smooth, silky texture without scrambling the eggs.
• Swirl Alternative Gently swirl the blood orange curd into the brownie batter for a marbled effect instead of a solid layer.
• Dietary Adaptations Swap regular flour with gluten-free flour blend and use dairy-free butter for a celiac or vegan-friendly version.

• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 245
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 95mg