Description
This Easy Lemon Brownies recipe combines the bright, tangy flavor of fresh lemons with a chewy, buttery brownie base. These lemon-infused treats are baked to perfection and topped with a smooth lemon glaze, offering a refreshing twist on traditional brownies. Perfect for a dessert or a sweet snack, they are easy to make and sure to impress with their vibrant citrus taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Glaze
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for extra zing)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the melted and cooled unsalted butter, eggs, fresh lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and gently stir just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, which can make the brownies tough.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Transfer the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool Before Glazing: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. This helps the glaze adhere properly and prevents it from melting.
- Prepare Lemon Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2–3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency if needed by adding more lemon juice or powdered sugar. Optionally, stir in 1 teaspoon of lemon zest for extra citrus flavor.
- Glaze and Set: Spread the lemon glaze evenly over the cooled brownies. Let the glaze set for about 15 minutes to firm up before slicing.
- Slice and Serve: Cut the lemon brownies into 9 to 12 squares depending on desired size and serve.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the brownies chewy and tender.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely before glazing to avoid melting the glaze.
- The lemon glaze can be adjusted for sweetness or tartness by varying powdered sugar and lemon juice ratios.
- Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the best flavor; bottled lemon juice will not provide the same brightness.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate to extend freshness.
