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.

Three square lemon bars are stacked on top of each other on a white marbled surface, showing a clear layer structure. The bottom layer is thin and golden brown with a slightly crisp texture. The middle layer is thick, soft, and a pale yellow color, looking moist and dense. The top layer is very thin and white, smooth like a light icing with a few cracks. A blurred yellow lemon in the background adds to the fresh look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. Step 2: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
  3. 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.
  4. Step 4: Gently fold in the flour and salt until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  5. Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  6. Step 6: Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Step 7: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before adding the glaze.
  8. Step 8: To make the glaze, mix the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest together until smooth.
  9. 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

The image shows three square lemon bars stacked on top of each other. Each bar has three layers: the bottom layer is a light golden-brown crust that looks crumbly, the middle layer is a thick, bright yellow lemon filling that is smooth and slightly shiny, and the top layer is a thin dusting of white powdered sugar. The bars are placed on a white marbled surface. The focus is on the texture contrast between the soft filling and the firm crust. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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.

Print

Lemon 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.

  • Author: Dylan
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 16 brownies 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Pour Batter into Pan: Transfer the batter to your prepared baking pan, spreading and smoothing the top evenly.
  6. 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.
  7. Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan to set properly before applying the glaze.
  8. Prepare the Lemon Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth and spreadable.
  9. 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

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