Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe

Introduction

These easy lemon brownies are a bright and tangy twist on a classic treat. With a soft, buttery base and a zesty lemon glaze, they make a perfect dessert for any occasion. Ready in under an hour, they’re simple to bake and full of fresh citrus flavor.

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 pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the paper to ensure easy removal.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the flour and salt until combined.
3. Step 3: In a separate 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 to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition.
5. Step 5: Stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract until evenly mixed.
6. Step 6: Gently fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined; avoid overmixing.
7. Step 7: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly.
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 on a wire rack.
10. Step 10: To make the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice until smooth.
11. Step 11: Stir in 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, then pour the glaze evenly over the cooled brownies.
12. Step 12: Let the glaze set before cutting into squares and serving.

Tips & Variations

• For an extra pop of lemon flavor, add poppy seeds to the batter before baking.
• If you prefer a less tart glaze, reduce the lemon juice or add a little milk to thin the powdered sugar glaze.
• Use fresh lemons for the best zest and juice; bottled lemon juice won’t provide the same bright flavor.
• Try dusting the finished brownies with additional powdered sugar or garnishing with candied lemon slices for a decorative touch.

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. Reheat briefly in the microwave if desired, but the brownies are delicious served chilled as well.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use lemon extract instead of fresh lemon juice and zest?

While lemon extract can add lemon flavor, it lacks the fresh brightness of zest and juice. For best results, use fresh lemons, but you can substitute 1 teaspoon lemon extract and reduce or omit the zest and juice if needed.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or add some separately to help with texture.

Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 132 reviews

These Easy Lemon Brownies combine the luscious citrus flavor of fresh lemons with a moist, buttery brownie base. Perfect for a bright and zesty twist on the classic dessert, they feature a soft lemon-infused batter topped with a tangy lemon glaze to enhance every bite.

• Author: zara
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Yield: 12–16 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 and grease it lightly to ensure easy removal of the brownies after baking.
2. Make the 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 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.
3. Add Eggs and Flavorings: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter and sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract to fully incorporate the lemon flavor into the batter.
4. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gently fold the flour and salt mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix to maintain a tender brownie texture.
5. Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely in the pan.
6. Prepare Lemon Glaze: While the brownies are cooling, mix the powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice in a small bowl, adjusting the amount of juice to achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. Stir in the tablespoon of lemon zest for added brightness.
7. Glaze the Brownies: Once the brownies are fully cooled, pour the lemon glaze evenly over the top. Allow the glaze to set before slicing and serving.

Notes

• For a richer lemon flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest.
• Ensure eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter.
• Do not overbake to keep the brownies moist and tender.
• Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
• For added texture, consider folding in ½ cup of chopped nuts or white chocolate chips.

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