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Dessert / Cranberry Orange Brownies: The Ultimate Festive Dessert Recipe

Cranberry Orange Brownies: The Ultimate Festive Dessert Recipe

July 6, 2025 by HaileyDessert

Cranberry Orange Brownies: Prepare to be amazed! Imagine sinking your teeth into a fudgy, intensely chocolatey brownie, but then… BAM! A burst of bright, tangy cranberry and zesty orange dances across your palate. It’s a flavor explosion you won’t soon forget, and trust me, these brownies are dangerously addictive.

While the classic brownie has its roots in late 19th-century America, this particular twist, the Cranberry Orange Brownie, is a more modern invention, born from the desire to elevate the humble brownie to new heights of deliciousness. The combination of cranberry and orange is a time-honored pairing, often associated with festive holiday baking, bringing a touch of warmth and cheer to any occasion.

What makes these brownies so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The rich, decadent chocolate is perfectly complemented by the tartness of the cranberries and the bright citrus notes of the orange. The fudgy center gives way to slightly chewy edges, creating a symphony of sensations in every bite. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, you can whip up a batch of these delightful treats in no time. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these unforgettable Cranberry Orange Brownies!

Cranberry Orange Brownies this Recipe

Ingredients:

  • For the Brownies:
    • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
    • 2 cups granulated sugar
    • 4 large eggs
    • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
    • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
    • ¼ teaspoon baking powder
    • ¼ teaspoon salt
    • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • For the Cranberry Orange Swirl:
    • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
    • ½ cup granulated sugar
    • ¼ cup orange juice, freshly squeezed
    • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • Optional Garnish:
    • Powdered sugar, for dusting
    • Orange zest, for extra flavor and visual appeal
    • Chopped cranberries, for a festive touch

Preparing the Cranberry Orange Swirl:

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and orange zest. I like to use a saucepan that’s not too big, so the mixture cooks evenly.
  2. Cook Down the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and continue to cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the mixture has thickened slightly. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon. Don’t worry if it seems a little loose; it will thicken more as it cools.
  3. Cool Completely: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the cranberry orange swirl cool completely. This is important because you don’t want to add a hot swirl to the brownie batter, as it could affect the texture of the brownies. You can even make this swirl a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before using it.

Making the Brownie Batter:

  1. Melt the Butter: In a large bowl, melt the butter completely. You can do this in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or in a saucepan over low heat. Be careful not to burn the butter. Once melted, let it cool slightly for a few minutes. This helps prevent the eggs from cooking when you add them.
  2. Add Sugar and Mix: Add the granulated sugar to the melted butter and whisk vigorously until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and slightly glossy. This step is crucial for creating that signature brownie crackly top.
  3. Incorporate the Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This helps create a smooth and emulsified batter.
  4. Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in the vanilla extract. The vanilla enhances the flavor of the chocolate and adds a touch of warmth to the brownies.
  5. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Whisking ensures that the baking powder and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.
  6. Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to tough brownies. A few streaks of flour are okay at this point.
  7. Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the chocolate chips. I like to use semi-sweet chocolate chips, but you can use milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips depending on your preference.

Assembling and Baking the Brownies:

  1. Prepare the Baking Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. You can also line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides, for easy removal of the brownies. This is my preferred method because it makes cleanup a breeze.
  2. Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
  3. Dollop Cranberry Orange Swirl: Spoon dollops of the cooled cranberry orange swirl over the brownie batter. Don’t be shy with the swirl! The more you add, the more flavorful and visually appealing the brownies will be.
  4. Create Swirl Pattern: Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cranberry orange mixture into the brownie batter. Be careful not to overmix, as this can muddy the colors. You want to create a beautiful marbled effect.
  5. Bake the Brownies: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the brownies.
  6. Cool Completely: Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan before cutting. This is crucial for preventing the brownies from crumbling. I know it’s tempting to cut into them while they’re still warm, but trust me, they’ll be much easier to slice and serve if you let them cool completely.

Serving and Storing:

  1. Cut into Squares: Once the brownies are completely cool, cut them into squares. I like to use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each cut for clean, even slices.
  2. Garnish (Optional): Dust the brownies with powdered sugar, sprinkle with orange zest, or top with chopped cranberries for a festive touch.
  3. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the cranberry orange brownies and enjoy! They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy night in.
  4. Storing Leftovers: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Wrap the brownies individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw the brownies at room temperature before serving.

Tips for Perfect Cranberry Orange Brownies:

  • Use High-Quality Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the flavor of your brownies. Use good quality butter, chocolate, and cocoa powder for the best results.
  • Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing the batter can lead to tough brownies. Mix until just combined.
  • Don’t Overbake the Brownies: Overbaking the brownies will result in dry, crumbly brownies. Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached.
  • Let the Brownies Cool Completely: Letting the brownies cool completely before cutting them will prevent them from crumbling.
  • Adjust Sweetness to Your Preference: If you prefer a less sweet brownie, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the batter.
  • Add Nuts: For added texture and flavor, you can add chopped nuts to the brownie batter. Walnuts, pecans, or almonds would all be delicious.
  • Experiment with Extracts: You can experiment with different extracts to customize the flavor of your brownies. Almond extract, peppermint extract, or coffee extract would all be great additions.
  • Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.
  • Make it Vegan: Substitute the butter with vegan butter, the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg), and use vegan chocolate chips for a vegan version.
Troubleshooting:
  • Brownies are too dry: You may have overbaked the brownies. Reduce the baking time next time.
  • Brownies are too gooey: You may have underbaked the brownies. Increase the baking time next time.
  • Brownies are too tough: You may have overmixed the batter. Mix until just combined next time.
  • Brownies are not rising: Make sure your baking powder is fresh.
  • Cranberry orange swirl is sinking: Make sure the swirl is cooled completely before adding it to the batter.

Enjoy baking these delicious Cranberry Orange Brownies! I hope you love them as much as I do. They’re the perfect treat for any occasion.

Cranberry Orange Brownies

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Cranberry Orange Brownies are more than just a dessert; they’re a festive explosion of flavor in every bite. The rich, fudgy brownie base perfectly complements the tart cranberries and the bright, zesty orange, creating a symphony of tastes that will leave you wanting more. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try, especially during the holiday season, but honestly, they’re delicious any time of year!

Why are these brownies so special? It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tart, the delightful chewiness, and the vibrant flavors that dance on your palate. They’re incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum reward. Forget those store-bought brownies; once you taste these homemade delights, you’ll never go back.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to get creative with your serving suggestions and variations. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of a warm brownie is always a classic choice. For an extra touch of elegance, dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle them with melted white chocolate. You could even add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts for a nutty crunch.

Here are a few more ideas to spark your culinary imagination:

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of orange zest.
  • Pair with a cup of hot cocoa or a glass of chilled milk.
  • Cut into smaller squares and serve as part of a dessert platter.
  • Pack them in a festive tin for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Variations:

  • Add a handful of chocolate chips (milk, dark, or white) to the batter for an extra chocolatey kick.
  • Substitute the orange zest with lemon zest for a slightly different citrusy flavor.
  • Stir in a tablespoon of orange liqueur for a boozy twist (perfect for adults!).
  • Use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen, just be sure to rehydrate them slightly before adding them to the batter.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

I’m confident that you’ll absolutely love these Cranberry Orange Brownies. They’re the perfect treat to bake for yourself, your family, or your friends. They’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, and they’re sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake up a batch of these irresistible brownies. I promise you won’t regret it!

And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience! Once you’ve tried the recipe, please come back and leave a comment below. Let me know what you thought, what variations you tried, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. Sharing your feedback helps me improve the recipe and inspires other bakers to give it a try. Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite of these festive Cranberry Orange Brownies! I can’t wait to hear all about your baking adventures! Don’t forget to share pictures of your creations on social media and tag me!


Cranberry Orange Brownies: The Ultimate Festive Dessert Recipe

Fudgy brownies swirled with a tangy cranberry orange mixture. Perfect for holidays or any time!

Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Category: Dessert
Yield: 16-24 brownies
Save This Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ¼ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup orange juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting
  • Orange zest, for extra flavor and visual appeal
  • Chopped cranberries, for a festive touch

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cranberry Orange Swirl: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and orange zest.
  2. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
  3. Reduce the heat to low and continue to cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the mixture has thickened slightly. It should coat the back of a spoon.
  4. Remove from heat and let the cranberry orange swirl cool completely.
  5. Make the Brownie Batter: In a large bowl, melt the butter completely and let it cool slightly.
  6. Add the granulated sugar to the melted butter and whisk vigorously until well combined.
  7. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
  8. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  9. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
  10. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  11. Gently fold in the chocolate chips.
  12. Assemble and Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan (or line with parchment paper).
  13. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
  14. Spoon dollops of the cooled cranberry orange swirl over the brownie batter.
  15. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cranberry orange mixture into the brownie batter.
  16. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached.
  17. Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan before cutting.
  18. Serve: Cut into squares. Garnish with powdered sugar, orange zest, or chopped cranberries, if desired.

Notes

  • Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
  • Don’t overmix the brownie batter.
  • Don’t overbake the brownies.
  • Let the brownies cool completely before cutting for clean slices.
  • Adjust sweetness to your preference by reducing sugar slightly.
  • Add chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor.
  • Experiment with different extracts like almond, peppermint, or coffee.
  • For gluten-free brownies, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
  • For vegan brownies, substitute butter with vegan butter, eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per egg), and use vegan chocolate chips.
  • Storing Leftovers: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Wrap the brownies individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw the brownies at room temperature before serving.

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