Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe

Introduction

These easy lemon brownies offer a delightful twist on the classic treat, combining tangy citrus with a rich, buttery base. Perfectly balanced with lemon zest and juice, they’re refreshing, moist, and topped with a luscious lemon glaze.

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 zest (for glaze)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the parchment.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Set aside.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.
4. Step 4: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Step 5: Mix in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract until combined.
6. Step 6: Gently fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients until just incorporated.
7. Step 7: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
8. Step 8: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Step 9: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.
10. Step 10: For the glaze, mix powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice until smooth. Stir in 1 tablespoon lemon zest.
11. Step 11: Pour the glaze evenly over the cooled brownies and let it set for about 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use room temperature eggs to ensure a smooth batter and even baking.
• Add a handful of poppy seeds to the batter for extra texture and a classic lemon poppy seed flavor.
• For a stronger lemon flavor, increase the lemon zest in both the batter and glaze.
• Try substituting half of the butter with Greek yogurt for a slightly tangier, moist brownie.

Storage

Store the lemon brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them refrigerated for up to a week. To enjoy, bring to room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave. The glaze may firm up when chilled but will soften when warmed slightly.

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 recommended for the best vibrant flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch. Just be aware it may affect the brightness of the taste slightly.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend of equal measure. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for best texture.

Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 71 reviews

These easy lemon brownies are a delightful twist on traditional brownies, offering a bright and tangy flavor with a tender, moist texture. Perfect for lemon lovers looking for a simple yet delicious dessert, this recipe combines fresh lemon zest and juice with a classic buttery batter, topped with a zesty lemon glaze for extra citrusy sweetness.

• Author: Victoria
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 12–16 brownies 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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 prevent sticking.
2. Make Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt until evenly combined. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together for 3 to 4 minutes until light and fluffy.
3. Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time into the butter and sugar mixture, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
4. Mix in Flavors: Stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well distributed throughout the batter.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients: Gently fold the flour and salt mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the brownies tender.
6. Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only 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.
8. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice until smooth. Stir in the remaining lemon zest for added texture and flavor.
9. Glaze the Brownies: Pour the lemon glaze over the cooled brownies, spreading it evenly. Let the glaze set for about 30 minutes before cutting and serving for best results.

Notes

• Use room temperature eggs to ensure they incorporate smoothly into the batter.
• For a more intense lemon flavor, adjust lemon zest and juice to taste.
• Make sure the brownies are completely cooled before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting.
• The glaze can be adjusted in thickness by adding more powdered sugar or lemon juice as needed.
• Store the 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 brownies, lemon glaze, citrus brownies, baking