Made these for a cooking tasting contest at my church, but they were out before the contest even began! Dang!

Name: Made these for a cooking tasting contest at my church, but they were out before the contest even began! Dang!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup butter, melted; 2 eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; Zest of 1 orange

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Created by

Morgan Reeves

Last updated on 2025-12-18T15:14:25.734Z

This recipe was a hit at my church's cooking tasting contest. Everyone loved them so much that they were gone before the contest even started!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

A Sweet Celebration of Flavors

These chocolate treats are a delightful fusion of rich cocoa and bright citrus. The addition of fresh orange zest elevates the flavor profile, making each bite a refreshing experience. This unique combination not only enhances the chocolate's depth but also adds a hint of brightness that is simply irresistible. Whether you're a chocolate lover or someone who enjoys a citrusy twist, these treats satisfy all cravings.

Perfect for any occasion, these chocolate delights are especially fitting for gatherings and celebrations. Imagine serving them at a birthday party, holiday feast, or even a casual get-together with friends. Their eye-catching appearance and mouthwatering taste will undoubtedly impress your guests, making them the highlight of your dessert table.

The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a dinner party, attending a potluck, or simply treating yourself, these chocolate treats are versatile enough to fit any occasion. Their rich flavor and creamy texture make them suitable for both formal and informal events. Plus, they can be easily cut into squares, making them perfect for sharing.

The quick and straightforward preparation process is an added bonus. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal time in the kitchen, you can whip up a batch that will have everyone asking for seconds. This recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a fun way to get family and friends involved in the cooking process.

Tips for the Best Results

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Treats

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup butter, melted
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
Zest of 1 orange

Mix well before baking!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and orange zest.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until well combined.

Bake

Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and bake for 15 minutes.

Cool and Serve

Let cool for a few minutes before cutting into squares and serving.

Enjoy your delicious treats!

Serving Suggestions

These chocolate treats can be served as-is or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. The creamy ice cream complements the rich chocolate perfectly, creating a delightful contrast in flavors and textures. Drizzle some chocolate sauce on top for an extra touch of decadence.

For a fun twist, consider serving them with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of orange zest. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also ties back to the refreshing citrus flavor in the treats. Your guests will appreciate the thoughtful presentation as much as the delicious taste.

Storage Tips

To keep your chocolate treats fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them; just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

These treats also freeze well! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds. This way, you can always have a sweet treat on hand for unexpected cravings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of cocoa powder?

Yes, you can substitute dark chocolate, but adjust the sugar accordingly.

→ How should I store the leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these treats?

Absolutely! They can be frozen for up to a month. Just make sure to wrap them well.

→ What can I use instead of butter?

You can use coconut oil or a dairy-free substitute if needed.