Lemon Brownies

Indulge in a Refreshing Delight

Lemon brownies, often referred to as lemon bars in a fudgy form, bring a delightful twist to traditional desserts. This recipe captures the perfect balance of sweetness and tang, making it an ideal treat for sunny afternoons, family gatherings, or as a vibrant ending to a hearty meal. I remember baking these for a summer picnic, and the burst of citrus in each bite had everyone asking for seconds—something about that zesty flavor just hits differently!

Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

What sets lemon brownies apart is their unique blend of rich ingredients paired with the bright acidity of lemons. Not only are they quick and easy to make, but they also cater to both kids and adults alike, making them a surefire hit at any gathering. These brownies are perfect for a relaxed weeknight dessert or a festive holiday treat, especially when topped with a simple powdered sugar glaze.

“These lemon brownies are everything! I made a batch for a family barbecue, and they disappeared before I could even take a picture!” – A satisfied home baker.

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Let’s simplify the process so that even novice bakers will feel confident in creating this delightful dessert. You’ll start by melting butter and mixing in sugar for a rich base. From there, you’ll add eggs, lemon juice, and zest, combining those bright flavors with flour and a few other dry ingredients. The steps are straightforward, ensuring you can enjoy the process as much as the end result!

Gather Your Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Zest of 2 lemons
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
• Powdered sugar (for glaze)

Note: If you’re out of fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, although fresh zest significantly enhances the flavor!

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan, lining it with parchment for easy release.
2. In a large bowl, melt the butter and stir in the granulated sugar until well combined.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring you mix thoroughly after each addition to keep the mixture smooth.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract, followed by the lemon zest and lemon juice, blending until everything is evenly incorporated.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. Gradually combine the dry mixture with the wet ingredients until just mixed; avoid overmixing to maintain a soft texture.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly across the surface.
8. Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the brownies to cool completely before drizzling with a glaze made from powdered sugar mixed with lemon juice.

Best Way to Serve

These lemon brownies shine when served at room temperature, and you can elevate the experience by dusting with additional powdered sugar or pairing with fresh berries. Consider a light whipped cream on the side, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for those warm summer nights when you want a little extra indulgence.

Keeping Lemon Brownies Fresh Longer

To maintain the freshness of your lemon brownies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep them for longer, refrigerate them, where they should stay good for about a week. You can also freeze individual pieces wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for a quick, sweet treat later on.

Pro Chef Tips

For an even more vibrant lemon flavor, consider using a mix of lemon juice and almond extract for a delicious twist. Additionally, ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better emulsification, which will result in a creamier texture. Always remember to zest the lemons before juicing; it’s much easier!

Creative Twists

If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping in some coconut for a tropical flair or folding in fresh blueberries for a burst of sweetness. A drizzle of white chocolate on top can also take these brownies to the next level, providing a creamy contrast to the tartness of the lemon.

Your Questions Answered

How long do these lemon brownies take to prepare?

The preparation time is relatively quick—about 15 minutes, plus an additional 25-30 minutes for baking.

Can I use a different type of flour?

While all-purpose flour is recommended, gluten-free flour blends can also be used for those with dietary restrictions. Just ensure it’s a 1:1 substitute.

How should I store leftover brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate them for up to a week. They also freeze well for up to three months!

These lemon brownies are not just a dessert; they are an experience waiting to be shared with loved ones. Whether you enjoy them at a gathering, as a midday snack, or simply as a treat for yourself, this recipe offers a little bit of sunshine in every bite. Happy baking!

Lemon Brownies

---

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Pin Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A delightful twist on traditional desserts, these lemon brownies provide a perfect balance of sweetness and tang, ideal for any gathering.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Zest of 2 lemons
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
• Powdered sugar (for glaze)

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan, lining it with parchment for easy release.
2. In a large bowl, melt the butter and stir in the granulated sugar until well combined.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring you mix thoroughly after each addition to keep the mixture smooth.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract, followed by the lemon zest and lemon juice, blending until everything is evenly incorporated.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. Gradually combine the dry mixture with the wet ingredients until just mixed; avoid overmixing to maintain a soft texture.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly across the surface.
8. Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the brownies to cool completely before drizzling with a glaze made from powdered sugar mixed with lemon juice.

Notes

Serve at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar or with fresh berries for an enhanced experience. Store in an airtight container for up to three days at room temperature.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 brownie
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: lemon brownies, lemon bars, dessert recipe, sweet treat, summer dessert