If you’re craving a dessert that brings sunshine to your taste buds, this Lemon Brownies Recipe is an absolute must-try. Bright, tangy lemon flavor blends beautifully into a moist, tender brownie that’s the perfect balance of sweet and tart. These lemon brownies invite you into a world where classics get a zesty twist, making every bite a refreshing delight that you’ll want to share with friends and family. Trust me, once you try this Lemon Brownies Recipe, it might just become your new favorite treat for any time of year.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to making these lemon brownies shine. Each component has a vital role—providing texture, balance, or that unmistakable zing of lemon that lifts the entire dessert.
- Butter (3/4 cup, softened): Gives the brownies a rich, tender crumb with a buttery flavor that enhances the lemon.
- Sugar (1 1/4 cups): Sweetens the batter and helps create that irresistibly soft texture.
- Eggs (2 large): Acts as the binder to hold everything together while adding structure.
- Lemon zest from 1 large lemon: Infuses fresh citrus oils for an aromatic punch that wakes up your palate.
- Lemon juice (1/4 cup): Brings natural tartness that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Lemon extract (1/2 to 1 teaspoon, optional): Amplifies the lemon flavor if you want an extra citrus kick.
- Flour (1 1/3 cups): Provides the structure and body without weighing the brownies down.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors, making sure nothing tastes flat.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): A smooth, fine sugar for making the luscious lemon glaze.
- Lemon juice (2 tablespoons for glaze): Combined with powdered sugar, creates a tangy, glossy finish.
How to Make Lemon Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, lightly spray an 8 x 8 inch pan with non-stick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. Using parchment makes it a breeze to lift out and cut your lemon brownies without any sticking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar. Beat until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally to make sure everything is well combined.
Step 3: Add Eggs, Lemon Zest, and Juice
Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps to keep the batter smooth and uniform. Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice, mixing until evenly combined so that every bite is bursting with fresh lemon flavor.
Step 4: Fold in Dry Ingredients and Bake
Gently fold in the flour and salt. Be careful not to overmix—you want a tender texture. Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top. Bake the lemon brownies for 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool completely before adding the glaze.
How to Serve Lemon Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your lemon brownies, dust a little extra powdered sugar on top or sprinkle with finely grated lemon zest for a pop of color and brightness. Fresh mint leaves can also add a lovely freshness and visual appeal that makes the dessert even more inviting.
Side Dishes
Pair your lemon brownies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to mellow out the tangy lemon flavor. For a summery twist, serve alongside fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries that complement the citrus notes beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider cutting the lemon brownies into small, bite-sized squares for a charming dessert platter. You could also drizzle a bit of white chocolate over the top for a luxurious touch. Serving each brownie on a pretty plate with a lemon wedge adds a delightful detail that shows off the star ingredient.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your lemon brownies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay moist and delicious for up to 3 days, perfect for enjoying over a couple of treat-filled afternoons.
Freezing
If you want to save these lemon brownies for longer, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them into a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze well for up to 2 months, making this an easy make-ahead dessert for busy weeks.
Reheating
To enjoy the brownies fresh from the freezer, thaw them overnight in the fridge. You can warm them slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds if you like your lemon brownies a little warm and gooey—it’s pure comfort in each bite.
FAQs
Can I use fresh lemon juice or bottled lemon juice for this Lemon Brownies Recipe?
Fresh lemon juice is always the best choice because it has a brighter, more vibrant flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Just make sure it’s 100% lemon juice without any added sugars or preservatives.
Is lemon extract necessary in the recipe?
Lemon extract is optional. It enhances the lemon flavor, especially if you want that extra citrusy punch, but the zest and lemon juice provide plenty of natural lemon taste on their own.
How do I know when the lemon brownies are done baking?
The best way is to insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the brownies are perfectly baked. You don’t want any wet batter left behind.
Can this Lemon Brownies Recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the regular flour for a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that is designed for baking. Just make sure it includes xanthan gum or another binder to help with texture.
What’s the best way to get clean cuts when slicing these lemon brownies?
Using parchment paper to line your pan helps immensely. Additionally, chill the brownies thoroughly before cutting and use a sharp knife that you wipe clean between cuts for the neatest slices.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a lemon lover or just looking to try something different and delicious, this Lemon Brownies Recipe is an absolute winner. Bright and tangy yet tender and sweet, these brownies have a way of bringing a smile with every bite. So go ahead, whip up a batch and share this little slice of sunny happiness with those you love—you might just find it becoming a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Print
Lemon Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Lemon Brownies offer a delightful twist on the classic dessert with a bright, zesty lemon flavor. Soft and moist with a tangy lemon glaze, they are perfect for lemon lovers looking for a sweet and refreshing treat.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) Butter (softened)
- 1 1/4 cups Sugar
- 2 large Eggs
- Zest from 1 large Lemon
- 1/4 cup Lemon Juice
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon Lemon Extract (optional)
- 1 1/3 cups Flour
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
Lemon Glaze
- 1 cup Powdered Sugar
- 2 Tablespoons Lemon Juice
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray an 8×8 inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easier removal and cutting of the brownies.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using a mixer or by hand until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to incorporate fully into the batter.
- Add Lemon Flavor: Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and optional lemon extract until the mixture is well combined.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Fold in the flour and salt carefully until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth out the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean without wet batter.
- Cool and Glaze: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. Mix the powdered sugar and lemon juice together to create the glaze, then drizzle or spread over the cooled brownies before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use parchment paper for easier removal and cleaner slices.
- The lemon extract is optional but enhances the lemon flavor.
- Do not overbake to maintain moist brownies.
- Let brownies cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting off.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
