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Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe

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.

Ingredients

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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 23 lemons)
  • ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Lemon Glaze

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 23 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