Chocolate Orange Brownies

The Classic paring of orange and chocolate is really popular and common around the holidays especially when you see those iconic Terry's Chocolate Orange floating around. If you don't know what a terry chocolate orange is a chocolate shaped orange that if opened correctly it opens into a perfectly sectioned "orange" of chocolate. In these chocolate orange brownies, you get a similar flavor in a rich, moist cake like brownie. The brownies are speckled with pecan pieces and have a bold orange flavor which pairs excellent with the chocolate brownie. If you are not nut friendly, you can substitute with equal portions of mini chocolate chips.

In a small bowl, carefully whisk the 1/2 cup hot water with the cocoa powder until smooth.

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt until they are well combined.

In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth, then add the butter, orange zest and vanilla and whisk to combine. Whisk in the cocoa mixture.

Add flour mixture with a rubber spatula or spoon and stir just until the flour disappears. Gently fold in the pecan pieces, don't over mix the batter.

Pour the batter into the greased pan, and bake in the center of the oven at 350F degrees for 30-35 minutes. The brownies will be done when a  toothpick or small knife inserted in the center comes out mostly clean with a few crumbs attached.

Cool the brownies completely in the pan, then cut into 12-16 squares and enjoy.

Chocolate Orange Brownies

45 mins Serves 12 Ingredients: Coco powder, orange zest, brown sugar, flour, eggs,