There’s something entirely enchanting about the combination of rich chocolate and zesty orange, isn’t there? The moment I blended up these Raw Chocolate Orange Frosted Brownies, I was flooded with the delightful essence of those bold flavors mingling together. As I pressed the mixture into the pan, I could already anticipate the joy on my friends’ faces when they’d take their first bite.
This recipe is a lifesaver for anyone yearning for a decadent dessert that doesn’t compromise on health. Made with wholesome ingredients like walnuts and dates, these brownies are so simple to whip up that you might wonder how something this delicious could be so easy. With just a few minutes of prep time and a little patience while they chill, you’ll have an impressive treat that surprises everyone—not to mention being raw and vegan!
Whether you’re tired of the fast food routine or just looking to impress at your next gathering, these brownies tick all the boxes. Get ready to indulge in a guilt-free dessert that’s as vibrant as it is delicious!
Why are these Raw Chocolate Orange Frosted Brownies irresistible?
Decadent and Healthy: These brownies combine the richness of cacao with the brightness of orange for an irresistible flavor blend.
Quick Prep: With only 20 minutes of prep time, they’re perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
No Baking Needed: Forget about turning on the oven—these treats set up beautifully in the fridge!
Wholesome Ingredients: Made with nutrient-dense walnuts and dates, you can enjoy dessert without the guilt.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a potluck or a family dinner, these brownies will wow your guests with their unique flavor and stunning presentation.
Raw Chocolate Orange Frosted Brownies Ingredients
Dive into the delightful blend of chocolate and orange with these simple ingredients!
For the Brownie Base
- Walnuts – Rich in healthy fats, they give the brownies a satisfying crunch.
- Dates – Naturally sweet, they act as a perfect binder for the mixture.
- Cacao / Cocoa – Use raw cacao for a deeper, richer chocolate flavor.
- Chia seeds – Packed with nutrients, they help thicken the brownie batter.
For the Frosting
- Cashew nuts – Soaked cashews create a creamy frosting that complements the brownies perfectly.
- Coconut oil or coconut butter – Adds a luscious texture while providing healthy fats.
- Maple syrup – This sweetener enhances the frosting’s flavor and keeps it dairy-free.
- Vanilla – A splash of vanilla adds warmth to the frosting.
- Turmeric – Just a pinch brightens the color and adds health benefits.
- Orange juice – Freshly juiced brings out the citrusy zing in the frosting.
- Orange zest – Adds a fragrant finish to both the brownies and frosting.
With these straightforward ingredients, making Raw Chocolate Orange Frosted Brownies is not just easy; it’s a joyful, delicious experience waiting to happen!
How to Make Raw Chocolate Orange Frosted Brownies
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Blend the Base: Place walnuts, dates, cacao, chia seeds, and one orange’s juice into a food processor. Blend in 30-second intervals until the mixture sticks together and is finely chopped.
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Mix the Frosting: In a small jug blender, combine the cashew nuts, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla, turmeric, and the juice from the second orange. Blend for 1-2 minutes until smooth; add more orange juice if necessary for blending.
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Shape the Brownies: Using clean hands, press the brownie mixture into an 8″ square pan evenly. Make sure the mixture is well packed for a firm texture.
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Spread on Frosting: Generously spread the creamy frosting over the brownie base, smoothing it out to create an inviting appearance.
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Chill to Set: Place the brownies in the fridge for about an hour to allow them to firm up. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.
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Garnish: Once set, grate the zest of one orange over the top just before serving for that extra burst of flavor and visual appeal. Enjoy the delectable brownies within 3-5 days for maximum freshness!
Optional: Drizzle with extra melted chocolate for a stunning finishing touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Raw Chocolate Orange Frosted Brownies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, making them ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings! You can prepare the brownie base up to 24 hours in advance, simply blending all the ingredients and pressing the mixture into your pan. The frosting can also be made up to 3 days ahead—store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, just spread the frosting over the chilled brownie base and allow it to set for about an hour before serving. With these make ahead options, you’ll have a delectable, crowd-pleasing dessert at your fingertips with minimal last-minute effort!
Variations & Substitutions for Raw Chocolate Orange Frosted Brownies
Feel free to play around with these delicious twists to create your perfect brownie!
- Nut-Free: Swap walnuts and cashews for sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds for a tasty, allergy-friendly alternative.
- Sweetener Alternatives: Use agave syrup or honey instead of maple syrup for a different sweetening profile.
- Fruit Infusion: Add in ½ cup of crushed raspberries or blueberries to the brownie mix for a fruity twist that brightens each bite.
- Cocoa Boost: Incorporate 2 tablespoons of espresso powder into the brownie base for a rich mocha flavor that energizes.
- Spiced Up: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper into the frosting for a warm, spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the chocolate.
- Creamy Layer: Layer the brownie base with a banana puree before spreading on the frosting for an extra creamy texture and flavor.
- Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle crushed nuts or cacao nibs over the frosting before chilling to add a delightful crunch to each bite.
- Vegan White Chocolate: Use vegan white chocolate chips in place of the frosting for an entirely different flavor experience that still pairs beautifully with orange.
Experimenting with these variations will not only keep things exciting but will also allow you to craft your brownie masterpiece!
How to Store and Freeze Raw Chocolate Orange Frosted Brownies
Fridge: Keep the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This ensures their freshness while preserving the delicious chocolate and orange flavors.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months without compromising taste.
Thawing: To enjoy frozen brownies, simply transfer them to the fridge for a few hours or overnight before serving. They’ll be just as tasty and indulgent!
Reheating: These brownies are best enjoyed cold, but if you prefer them at room temperature, let them sit out for 15-20 minutes before indulging in the rich flavors of your Raw Chocolate Orange Frosted Brownies.
Expert Tips for Raw Chocolate Orange Frosted Brownies
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for freshly squeezed orange juice and zesty oranges for the best flavor. Avoid store-bought juice, which can taste bland.
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Blend Thoroughly: When processing the brownie base, blend until it’s well-combined and sticky. This ensures the raw chocolate orange frosted brownies hold together after chilling.
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Soak Cashews: Soaking the cashew nuts for a few hours makes blending easier and yields a smoother frosting. Don’t skip this step to achieve velvety results.
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Packed Layer: Press the brownie mixture firmly into the pan. This prevents crumbling when cutting, making for clean, beautiful squares.
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Chill Appropriately: Allow enough time in the fridge for the brownies to set properly. Rushing this step can result in a mushy texture.
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Storage Tips: Keep your brownies in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness for up to 5 days. Enjoy them as a quick snack or dessert!
What to Serve with Raw Chocolate Orange Frosted Brownies?
Elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings that complement the lusciousness of these brownies.
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Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries creates a vibrant contrast to the rich brownies. The tartness enhances the sweetness of the chocolate-orange combo.
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Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and creamy, this topping adds a tropical flair. It’s airy and refreshing, making each bite of brownie even more satisfying.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert duo. The cold, smooth ice cream balances the dense texture of the brownies perfectly.
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Mint Tea: A light herbal beverage like mint tea cleanses the palate, allowing you to fully appreciate the decadent flavors of the brownies.
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Dark Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate the presentation with a drizzle of melted dark chocolate. It adds richness while tying in the chocolatey notes of the brownies.
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Caramel Sauce: The warmth and sweetness of a vegan caramel sauce offer a sumptuous contrast to the cool chocolate-orange brownies. Drizzle it on top for a delightful finish.
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Espresso: A shot of espresso pairs beautifully with the brownies, as the bitterness cuts through the sweetness, creating a rich flavor experience.
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Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy option maintains the theme of wholesome indulgence. The pudding’s creamy texture and subtle sweetness complement the brownies nicely.
These pairings promise to enhance your enjoyment of Raw Chocolate Orange Frosted Brownies, turning dessert into a delightful experience!
Raw Chocolate Orange Frosted Brownies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best walnuts for my brownies?
Absolutely! When choosing walnuts, look for ones that are plump and have a creamy off-white color. Avoid any that exhibit dark spots or an overly bitter odor, as they may be rancid. Fresh walnuts are key to achieving the perfect texture and flavor in your Raw Chocolate Orange Frosted Brownies.
How should I store my Raw Chocolate Orange Frosted Brownies?
For best results, keep your brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can stay fresh for up to 5 days. You want to preserve that delicious chocolate and orange combination, so refrigeration is key to maintaining texture and taste.
Can I freeze these brownies for later enjoyment?
Very! To freeze your Raw Chocolate Orange Frosted Brownies, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply move them to the fridge for a few hours or overnight to thaw. They’ll taste just as delicious as fresh!
What if my brownie mixture is too crumbly?
If you find that your brownie mixture is too crumbly and not sticking together, don’t worry! Simply add a little more orange juice, one tablespoon at a time, and blend again until the mixture holds together better. The moisture from the dates and orange juice is key, so don’t hesitate to fine-tune the texture!
Are these brownies suitable for those with nut allergies?
While the main ingredients do include nuts (walnuts and cashews), there are alternatives! If you’re making these Raw Chocolate Orange Frosted Brownies for someone with a nut allergy, consider replacing the walnuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds to maintain texture while keeping it allergen-friendly. Just keep in mind that this will change the flavor profile slightly.
How can I make these brownies even more chocolatey?
If you’re looking to amplify the chocolate flavor, try adding an extra tablespoon or two of cacao powder to the brownie base. Additionally, drizzling some melted dark chocolate on top before serving can create an irresistible layer of chocolate richness, taking your Raw Chocolate Orange Frosted Brownies to the next level!
Indulge in Raw Chocolate Orange Frosted Brownies Today
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Blend the Base: Place walnuts, dates, cacao, chia seeds, and juice of one orange into a food processor. Blend in 30-second intervals until the mixture sticks together.
- Mix the Frosting: In a small blender, combine cashew nuts, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla, turmeric, and juice from the second orange. Blend for 1-2 minutes until smooth.
- Shape the Brownies: Press the brownie mixture into an 8" square pan evenly.
- Spread on Frosting: Generously spread the creamy frosting over the brownie base.
- Chill to Set: Place brownies in the fridge for about an hour to firm up.
- Garnish: Grate the zest of one orange over the top just before serving.