Orange Chocolate Brownies

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

   Tip: Line an 18x18 cm baking pan with parchment paper.

2. 2

   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

   Tip: Make sure to sift the dry ingredients for a smooth batter.

3. 3

   In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

   Tip: Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl.

4. 4

   Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

   Tip: Make sure to beat the eggs until they are fully incorporated.

5. 5

   Add the orange juice, orange zest, and orange extract, and mix until well combined.

   Tip: Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl.

6. 6

   Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.

   Tip: Make sure to stir until the chocolate is fully melted.

7. 7

   Fold the melted chocolate into the butter mixture until well combined.

   Tip: Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl.

8. 8

   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, beating until just combined.

   Tip: Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl.

9. 9

   If using walnuts, fold them into the batter at this stage.

   Tip: Make sure to distribute the walnuts evenly.

10. 10

    Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.

    Tip: Make sure to smooth the top for an even bake.

11. 11

    Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

    Tip: Make sure to let the brownies cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

12. 12

    Dust the brownies with confectioners' sugar and serve.

    Tip: Make sure to dust the brownies just before serving for the best texture.