Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe

Introduction

These easy lemon brownies are a delightful twist on the classic chocolate treat, combining bright citrus flavors with a soft, buttery texture. Perfect for a refreshing dessert or a sweet snack, they bring a sunny touch to any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 4 large eggs (room temperature)
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest (about 2-3 lemons)
• ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for glaze)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (for glaze)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the parchment.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
3. Step 3: In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes.
4. Step 4: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate fully.
5. Step 5: Mix in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract until combined.
6. Step 6: Gently fold the flour and salt mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
7. Step 7: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and spread it out smoothly.
8. Step 8: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.
9. Step 9: For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2 to 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice until smooth. Stir in the tablespoon of lemon zest.
10. Step 10: Pour the glaze over the cooled brownies and spread evenly. Let the glaze set for about 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a stronger lemon flavor, add extra lemon zest into the batter or glaze.
• Try adding a handful of fresh blueberries to the batter for a fruity twist.
• Use a mix of lemon and lime juice for a slightly different citrus note.
• Make sure the butter is softened, not melted, to achieve the best texture.

Storage

Store the lemon brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. If refrigerated, bring them to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight and glaze afterwards if desired.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice is best for the brightest flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Just be aware it may alter the taste slightly.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. Avoid overbaking to keep them moist and tender.

Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe

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This Easy Lemon Brownies recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional brownies by incorporating fresh lemon zest and juice for a bright, tangy flavor. Soft, moist, and topped with a zesty lemon glaze, these brownies are perfect for a refreshing dessert or snack.

• Author: Grace
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 12–16 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Brownie Batter

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest (from 2–3 lemons)
• ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Lemon Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Instructions

1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the parchment to ensure the brownies don’t stick.
2. Make Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt until combined. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using a hand or stand mixer for about 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.
3. Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This will help achieve a smooth batter.
4. Incorporate Flavor: Mix in the fresh lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the wet mixture, blending thoroughly to distribute the lemony flavor evenly.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients. Be careful not to overmix as this can affect the texture of the brownies.
6. Bake: Pour the prepared batter into the lined baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
7. Cool: Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before applying the glaze.
8. Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice until smooth. Stir in the lemon zest to add an extra punch of citrus.
9. Glaze Brownies: Pour the lemon glaze over the cooled brownies, spreading it evenly to cover the surface. Let the glaze set for about 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

• For extra lemon flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice and fresh lemon zest.
• Room temperature eggs help the batter combine better, leading to a smoother texture.
• Do not overbake; brownies should be moist and chewy rather than dry.
• Cooling completely before glazing prevents the glaze from melting and sliding off.
• Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Keywords: lemon brownies, lemon dessert, easy brownies, lemon glazed brownies, lemon zest brownies, tangy brownies, homemade brownies