Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe

Introduction

These easy lemon brownies combine the rich, fudgy texture of traditional brownies with a bright, tangy lemon flavor. Perfect for a refreshing twist on a classic treat, they are moist, zesty, and deliciously sweet.

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 (from 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 juice (additional, if needed for glaze)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and salt until combined.
3. Step 3: In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
4. Step 4: Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract into the wet ingredients.
5. Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until combined but do not overmix.
6. Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
7. Step 7: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
8. Step 8: While the brownies cool in the pan for 15 minutes, prepare the lemon glaze by mixing powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons lemon juice until smooth and pourable.
9. Step 9: Remove the brownies from the pan using the parchment overhang, place on a wire rack, and drizzle the lemon glaze evenly over the top.
10. Step 10: Let the glaze set before cutting into squares and serving.

Tips & Variations

• For an extra burst of citrus, add a tablespoon of finely chopped candied lemon peel to the batter.
• Swap out half the all-purpose flour for almond flour for a slightly nutty flavor and a tender crumb.
• If you prefer a more tart glaze, increase the lemon juice gradually until you reach your desired taste.
• Use a light dusting of powdered sugar on top instead of glaze for a more subtle finish.

Storage

Store leftover lemon brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat briefly in the microwave for a soft, warm treat. Avoid freezing the glazed brownies, as the texture may be affected.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

While fresh lemon juice is preferred for its bright flavor, you can use bottled juice in a pinch. Just be mindful that the taste may be less vibrant.

How do I know when the lemon brownies are done baking?

The brownies are done when the edges start to pull away from the pan and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs—not completely dry.

Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 127 reviews

These Easy Lemon Brownies are a delightful twist on classic brownies, featuring a bright, zesty lemon flavor combined with a moist, buttery texture. Perfect for anyone who loves a tangy dessert with a rich, sweet balance, these lemon brownies are quick to prepare and ideal for summer gatherings or anytime you crave a citrusy treat.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Yield: 16 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dry Ingredients

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 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

Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional, for extra zing)

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Cream Butter and Eggs: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a tender brownie texture.
5. Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
6. Prepare the Lemon Glaze: While brownies are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Adjust consistency by adding more lemon juice if needed. Stir in optional lemon zest for added flavor.
7. Glaze and Cool: Once the brownies are done, remove them from the oven and let cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then, pour the glaze evenly over the warm brownies. Allow to cool completely to let the glaze set.
8. Serve: Once cooled and set, cut into squares and serve. Enjoy your tangy, moist lemon brownies!

Notes

• Using room temperature eggs helps to create a smooth batter and consistent texture.
• Don’t overbake the brownies; they should be moist and fudgy, not dry.
• The lemon glaze adds a tart sweetness; adjust the juice to your taste preference for glaze thickness and tang.
• You can add a tablespoon of poppy seeds to the batter for a classic lemon-poppy seed twist.
• 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 lemon recipe, citrus brownies, lemon glaze, quick lemon brownies