Name: Orange Chocolate Brownie Bites Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-490581H41M30S
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 10 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; ⅔ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; ½ teaspoon orange extract; ¾ teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; ½ cup all-purpose flour; ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional); 10 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2/3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon orange extract; 2 – 4 tablespoons milk; 3 cups confectioners’ sugar

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 45 reviews

If you are looking for a delightful treat that balances rich chocolate with a refreshing burst of citrus, the Orange Chocolate Brownie Bites Recipe is your perfect go-to. These fudgy, bite-sized brownies bring together the deep, indulgent flavor of cocoa with a vibrant hint of orange, creating a sweet and tangy contrast that feels like a little celebration in every bite. They are wonderfully easy to make and perfect for sharing at parties, gifting to friends, or just enjoying as a special snack whenever a chocolate craving hits.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a group of small chocolate cupcakes arranged in rows on a white marbled surface. Each cupcake has two clear layers: a dark chocolate cake base and a thick, smooth swirl of dark chocolate frosting on top. Sitting on the frosting of each cupcake is a bright, shiny orange slice placed off-center, adding a fresh pop of color against the deep brown. The cupcakes are evenly spaced, and the texture of the frosting looks creamy and soft, contrasting with the denser cake layer below. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of the Orange Chocolate Brownie Bites Recipe lies in its simplicity and carefully chosen ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in creating the ultimate texture, flavor, and color that make these brownies unforgettable.

Unsalted butter (10 tablespoons): Adds richness and a smooth, velvety texture to the batter and frosting.
Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the brownies and contributes to a slight crispness on top.
Unsweetened cocoa powder (⅔ cup for brownies + ⅔ tablespoon for frosting): Delivers that deep chocolate flavor with an intense chocolaty color.
Orange extract (½ teaspoon for brownies + 1 teaspoon for frosting): Provides a bright citrus note that elevates the chocolate and makes these bites truly special.
Salt (¾ teaspoon): Enhances the chocolate flavor and balances the sweetness.
Large eggs (2): Bind the ingredients together and give the brownies structure.
All-purpose flour (½ cup): Gives the brownie bites just enough body without making them cakey.
Mini chocolate chips (½ cup, optional): Add extra pockets of melty chocolate throughout the brownie bites.
Milk (2 to 4 tablespoons): Adjusts the consistency of the frosting for easy spreading.
Confectioners’ sugar (3 cups): Creates a luscious, creamy frosting that complements the brownie’s richness perfectly.

How to Make Orange Chocolate Brownie Bites Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready when your batter is mixed. Spray a 24-cup mini-muffin pan or a 12-cup muffin pan generously with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make removal a breeze later on.

Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter slowly to keep it from browning. Stir in the granulated sugar, cocoa powder, orange extract, and salt until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Allow it to cool for about 5 minutes so you don’t cook the eggs in the next step.

Step 3: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Whisk the eggs into the slightly cooled butter mixture until everything is beautifully combined. Then, fold in the flour gently until mostly blended. Toss in the mini chocolate chips if you’re using them, mixing just until there are no more streaks of flour. The batter should be thick and rich, ready to fill your tins.

Step 4: Bake the Brownie Bites

Transfer the batter into the prepared muffin tins, filling each cup nearly to the top for perfectly sized bites. Bake mini brownie bites for 12 to 15 minutes or the larger muffin pan for 15 to 20 minutes until the brownie tops are cracked, shiny, and just set. Don’t overbake to keep their fudgy core intact.

Step 5: Cool and Remove from Pans

Let the brownie bites cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Carefully run a knife tip around the edges to loosen and gently lift them out. Allow them to cool fully on the wire rack before frosting.

Step 6: Prepare the Chocolate Orange Frosting

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt butter with cocoa powder until smooth. Beat the mixture until creamy, then add orange extract and milk, mixing well. Slowly powder in confectioners’ sugar and beat at medium speed until the frosting is smooth, fluffy, and ready for spreading.

Step 7: Frost and Decorate

Spread a generous amount of the chocolate orange frosting on each cooled brownie bite. For an irresistible finishing touch, top each with a mini mandarin orange slice or zest for that extra pop of citrus and color.

How to Serve Orange Chocolate Brownie Bites Recipe

The image shows several chocolate cupcakes each in a bright orange paper liner. Each cupcake has one thick swirl layer of smooth, dark chocolate frosting on top. On the center of the frosting, there is a small, bright orange tangerine segment adding a fresh pop of color. The cupcakes are arranged closely together on a surface with a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The best garnish is a fresh mini mandarin orange slice placed atop the frosted brownie. It adds a juicy burst of color and freshness that perfectly complements the deep chocolate flavor. You can also sprinkle a little finely grated orange zest or some sea salt flakes for extra dimension.

Side Dishes

Serve these brownie bites alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a cup of rich, dark coffee to elevate the experience. A light citrus salad or a few fresh berries can also balance out the richness beautifully for those who want a contrast on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Orange Chocolate Brownie Bites Recipe on a pretty platter with a dusting of cocoa powder or confectioners’ sugar. For parties, try stacking them in a tiered stand or placing them in decorative mini cupcake liners for a charming touch. You might even gift them in a cute box with a ribbon, perfect for celebrations or sweet surprises.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Brownie bites keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen is warm, storing them in the refrigerator helps maintain their freshness and shape, especially after frosting.

Freezing

You can freeze unfrosted brownie bites by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months. For the best taste, thaw them at room temperature before frosting and serving.

Reheating

To enjoy a warm brownie bite, microwave it for about 10 to 15 seconds. If frosted, avoid reheating directly to prevent melting the frosting. Instead, try warming only the unfrosted brownie before adding your frosting or a dollop of whipped cream.

FAQs

Can I use fresh orange zest instead of orange extract?

Absolutely! Fresh orange zest will give a more natural and vibrant citrus flavor. Consider using about one teaspoon of zest in place of the extract for the brownies and a little more for the frosting to keep that bright orange note intact.

Are the mini chocolate chips necessary?

Mini chocolate chips are optional but highly recommended if you love extra chocolate pockets inside your brownie bites. They melt beautifully, adding a melty surprise that complements the orange beautifully.

How do I make these gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend of equal measure. Make sure your baking powder or cocoa powder is also gluten-free. The texture might vary slightly but the deliciousness remains!

Can I make these into full-size brownies?

Yes! Just use a regular brownie pan and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on the texture—the brownies should be set but still fudgy in the middle. Adjust frosting amounts accordingly.

How long does the frosting stay good?

The chocolate orange frosting is best used the same day it’s made, but you can store it covered at room temperature for up to 24 hours. Gently rebeat it if it thickens before use.

Final Thoughts

The Orange Chocolate Brownie Bites Recipe is a charming little dessert that packs big flavor and joy into each tiny piece. It’s a recipe you’ll want to keep handy for celebrations, quick treats, or whenever you need a little chocolate sunshine. Give these bites a try and watch them disappear fast with smiles all around!