Lemon Brownie Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors, this Lemon Brownie Recipe is just what you need! These lemon brownies are not only easy to make, but they also bring a burst of sunshine to your table. Whether you’re whipping them up for a busy weeknight or bringing a treat to a family gathering, they are sure to impress. With every bite, you’ll find a moist texture complemented by a zesty glaze that will leave your taste buds dancing.

What makes this recipe so special? It’s the combination of fresh lemon zest and juice that truly elevates these brownies. They are like little bites of happiness, perfect for anyone who loves citrus desserts!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This lemon brownie recipe comes together in just 30 minutes! Perfect for those last-minute cravings.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the bright flavor of these lemon blondies. They’re sure to become a favorite!
• Versatile treat: Great for any occasion—be it a picnic, potluck, or just an everyday dessert.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare these brownies in advance and store them for later enjoyment. They taste even better the next day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be happy to know that this recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely have on hand. Let’s gather everything we need to create these delicious lemon brownies!

For the Brownies

• 1/2 cup salted butter, softened (1 stick)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 lemon, zested
• 2 large eggs
• 1 Tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

For the Glaze

• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 1/2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• zest of 1/2 lemon

Variations

This Lemon Brownie Recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to give your brownies a twist:

• Add some berries: Toss in some raspberries or blueberries for a fruity burst in each bite.
• Use different citrus: Try substituting lime or orange juice and zest for a refreshing change.
• Mix in nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a lovely crunch and depth of flavor.
• Try different glazes: Experiment with different flavored glazes by adding vanilla extract or almond extract.

How to Make Lemon Brownie Recipe

Step 1: Prep

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8×8 pan by spraying it with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper. This step helps prevent sticking and makes clean-up easier!

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a large bowl or the bowl of your stand mixer, beat together the 1/2 cup salted butter, 3/4 cup sugar, and the zest of one lemon. Mix until it’s light and fluffy—this aeration gives your brownies that soft texture we love! Next, add the 2 eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in 1 Tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Finally, add the 3/4 cup flour and 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our batter tender!

Step 3: Bake

Pour your luscious batter into the prepared pan, smoothing it out into an even layer. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This is where the magic happens! Let them cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before moving on.

Step 4: Glaze

While those delicious brownies are cooling, let’s whip up the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup powdered sugar, 1 1/2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice, and the zest from half of your lemon until smooth. Pour this zesty goodness over your cooled brownies, spreading it evenly across the top.

Step 5: Cool and Slice

Let your glazed brownies cool completely before slicing them into 16 squares. This final step ensures clean cuts and lets all those wonderful flavors meld together beautifully.

Enjoy sharing these delightful bites with friends and family!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Brownie Recipe

Making lemon brownies is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh lemons for zest and juice to enhance the vibrant flavor of your brownies. Fresh ingredients make a world of difference in taste!
• Don’t overmix: When combining the flour and baking powder, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies rather than the soft, moist texture we want.
• Check for doneness: Since ovens vary, start checking your brownies at 20 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs for that perfect chewy texture.
• Cool completely before glazing: Allowing your brownies to cool completely before applying the glaze prevents it from melting and ensures a beautiful finish that’s easy to slice.
• Store properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate them for longer freshness. This helps maintain their deliciousness!

How to Serve Lemon Brownie Recipe

These lemon brownies are not only scrumptious but also visually appealing! Here are some delightful ways to present them and elevate your dessert experience.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of elegance and enhances the sweetness without overpowering the lemon flavor.
• Lemon slices: Thinly sliced lemon rounds or wedges placed around the brownie platter add color and a refreshing hint of citrus.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the tangy lemon brownies, creating a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.
• Fresh berries: A medley of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a pop of color and natural sweetness that complements the tartness of the brownies.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, whipped coconut cream offers a fluffy texture that balances the density of the brownies while adding an extra layer of flavor.

With these serving suggestions, your lemon brownie recipe will shine at any gathering! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Lemon Brownie Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy these delightful treats throughout the week. Here’s how to store them for maximum freshness.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the brownies to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them, where they can last about a week.

Freezing

• Cut the brownies into squares before freezing for easy portioning.
• Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature for a few hours.

Reheating

• For warm brownies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the brownies on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

If you have questions about this Lemon Brownie Recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I make this Lemon Brownie Recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that works well in baking. The results will still be delicious!

How do I know when my lemon brownies are done?

The best way to check is by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, they’re ready to come out of the oven!

Can I add other flavors to this Lemon Brownie Recipe?

Definitely! Consider adding blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist, or mix in white chocolate chips for extra sweetness.

What should I serve with lemon brownies?

These lemon brownies pair wonderfully with fresh berries or a scoop of dairy-free ice cream. A dollop of whipped coconut cream also makes an excellent accompaniment!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Lemon Brownie Recipe as much as I do! With its sweet and tangy flavor, it’s sure to bring smiles to your table. Whether you’re sharing with friends or indulging solo, these treats are bound to brighten your day. Happy baking, and don’t forget to savor every bite!