Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe

Introduction

These easy lemon brownies are a bright and tangy twist on the classic treat. Soft and buttery with a fresh citrus glaze, they’re perfect for spring or anytime you crave a zesty dessert.

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 (about 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 parchment to prevent sticking.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the flour and salt until well 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: Mix in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
6. Step 6: Gently fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula until just combined.
7. Step 7: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
8. Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Step 9: Remove from oven and allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
10. Step 10: Prepare the glaze by mixing the powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and adding 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

• Use room temperature eggs to help the batter mix more smoothly and create a better texture.
• For extra lemon flavor, sprinkle additional lemon zest on top of the glaze before it sets.
• If you prefer a less tart glaze, reduce the lemon juice or add a little more powdered sugar.
• Try adding a handful of blueberries or white chocolate chips to the batter for a fruity variation.

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 gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if desired. The glaze may soften slightly when refrigerated.

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 bright, natural flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Adjust the quantity to taste as bottled juice is often more concentrated or less vibrant.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are done. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft and tender.

Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 117 reviews

These Easy Lemon Brownies combine the rich, buttery texture of traditional brownies with a bright, tangy lemon flavor. Perfectly moist and topped with a zesty lemon glaze, this dessert offers a refreshing twist for lemon lovers looking for a simple yet delicious treat.

• Author: Windy
• 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 and lightly grease the parchment to ensure the brownies don’t stick.
2. Make Batter – Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt until evenly combined to ensure consistent texture in the brownies.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy. This step aerates the mixture, contributing to a tender crumb.
4. Add Eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the creamed butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition to maintain a smooth and emulsified batter.
5. Add Lemon and Vanilla: Stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract, blending thoroughly to infuse the batter with bright citrus flavor and aromatic vanilla notes.
6. Fold in Flour Mixture: Gradually fold the whisked flour and salt into the wet ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the brownies tender.
7. Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
8. Cool: Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack to set before glazing.
9. Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice until smooth. Stir in the lemon zest to add texture and enhance the lemon flavor.
10. Glaze Brownies: Pour the lemon glaze evenly over the cooled brownies and spread gently. Let the glaze set for about 30 minutes at room temperature before slicing and serving.

Notes

• For best results, make sure eggs are at room temperature before mixing to help create a smooth batter.
• Do not overbake; brownies should remain moist inside.
• Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest in the glaze according to your citrus preference.
• Use parchment paper for easy removal and cleaner edges.
• Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for best freshness.

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