Lemon Brownies Recipe
Introduction
Lemon brownies offer a bright, tangy twist on the classic chocolate treat. With a soft, tender crumb complemented by a zesty lemon glaze, they are perfect for anyone craving a refreshing dessert. These brownies balance sweet and citrus flavors beautifully.

Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (for glaze)
- 1 tsp lemon zest (for glaze)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Step 3: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract.
- Step 4: Gently fold in the flour and salt until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Step 6: Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Step 7: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before adding the glaze.
- Step 8: To make the glaze, mix the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest together until smooth.
- Step 9: Spread the glaze evenly over the cooled brownies and chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra lemon flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon extract to the batter.
- Use fresh lemons for zest and juice to get the best bright flavor.
- If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the powdered sugar by a quarter cup.
- Add a handful of white chocolate chips or blueberries to the batter for variation.
Storage
Store lemon brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them refrigerated for up to one week. Bring to room temperature before serving, or warm briefly for a soft texture. The glaze may soften in the fridge, so chilling is optional after glazing if preferred.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different size pan?
You can bake these brownies in a 9×9-inch pan, but reduce the baking time slightly and start checking around 18 minutes to avoid overbaking.
Can I make lemon brownies gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix 1:1. Ensure your baking mix contains xanthan gum or a similar binder for best results.
PrintLemon Brownies Recipe
These Lemon Brownies are a delightful twist on the classic treat, combining the rich, buttery texture of traditional brownies with a fresh, zesty lemon flavor. Perfectly moist and topped with a tangy lemon glaze, they make a refreshing dessert or snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Lemon Glaze
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow for easy removal of the brownies.
- Mix Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This ensures a tender crumb and good texture.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Incorporate the eggs one at a time to fully blend them into the batter. Next, add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine the fresh citrus flavors evenly.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually stir in the all-purpose flour and salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the brownies tough.
- Pour Batter into Pan: Transfer the batter to your prepared baking pan, spreading and smoothing the top evenly.
- Bake the Brownies: Bake in the preheated oven for 22 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This indicates the brownies are perfectly cooked but still moist.
- Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan to set properly before applying the glaze.
- Prepare the Lemon Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth and spreadable.
- Glaze and Chill: Spread the lemon glaze evenly over the cooled brownies. Chill the brownies in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to let the glaze set before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For a stronger lemon flavor, increase the lemon zest by an additional teaspoon.
- Make sure the butter is softened (not melted) to achieve the best texture in the batter.
- You can swap the granulated sugar for a finer caster sugar for a smoother texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- These brownies can be served chilled or at room temperature.
Keywords: lemon brownies, lemon dessert, citrus brownies, lemon glaze, baked lemon dessert

