Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe

Introduction

These easy lemon brownies offer a bright twist on the classic treat, combining luscious lemon flavor with a tender, buttery texture. Perfect for a refreshing dessert or a sunny snack, they are simple to make and delightfully tangy.

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
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

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 paper to prevent sticking.
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 to 4 minutes until light and fluffy.
4. Step 4: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate fully.
5. Step 5: Stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract until evenly combined.
6. Step 6: Gently fold the flour and salt mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined; do not overmix.
7. Step 7: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly.
8. Step 8: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Step 9: Remove from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.
10. Step 10: To make the glaze, mix the powdered sugar with 2 to 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice until smooth. Stir in 1 tablespoon of 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

• For a more intense lemon flavor, add an extra tablespoon of lemon zest to the batter or glaze.
• If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the powdered sugar slightly and adjust lemon juice accordingly.
• Use a mix of lemon and lime zest for a citrusy twist.
• Make sure eggs are at room temperature to help the batter blend smoothly and produce tender brownies.

Storage

Store the lemon brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week; allow to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. Leftover glaze may become firmer when chilled.

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 provides the best flavor, you can substitute bottled lemon juice if necessary. Use the same quantity, but expect a slightly less vibrant taste.

How can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Ensure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder for the best texture.

Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 756 reviews

These easy lemon brownies combine the rich, buttery texture of classic brownies with a bright, zesty lemon flavor. Featuring a moist lemon-infused batter and a tangy lemon glaze, this recipe offers a perfect balance of sweet and tart in every bite. Ideal for dessert lovers looking for a refreshing twist on traditional brownies.

• Author: Amaya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 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, then lightly grease the parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the brownies after baking.
2. Make Batter – Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt, ensuring they’re evenly mixed.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together for 3 to 4 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition to maintain a smooth consistency.
5. Mix in Flavors: Stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined to infuse the batter with bright lemon flavor.
6. Fold in Dry Ingredients: Gently fold the flour and salt mixture into the wet ingredients, taking care not to overmix to keep the batter tender.
7. Bake: Pour the prepared batter evenly into the lined and greased 9×13 inch pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
8. Cool: Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan. This cooling step is crucial before applying the glaze.
9. Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2 to 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice until smooth. Stir in 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to add extra zestiness to the glaze.
10. Glaze Brownies: Pour the lemon glaze evenly over the cooled brownies, spreading it gently to cover the entire surface.
11. Set: Let the glaze set for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving to ensure a perfect, slightly firm finish.

Notes

• For a more intense lemon flavor, consider adding additional lemon zest to the batter or glaze.
• Use room temperature eggs to help the batter emulsify properly for better texture.
• Ensure brownies are completely cooled before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting and running off.
• Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend in equal amounts.

Keywords: lemon brownies, easy lemon dessert, lemon glaze brownies, citrus brownies, lemon dessert recipe