There’s something magical about a dessert that captures all the brightness and tangy sweetness of summer in every bite, which is exactly what these Lemon Brownies deliver. With their soft, fudgy texture and sunny burst of fresh citrus, this is the kind of treat friends and family will beg you for after just one bite. Simple ingredients work together to create a melt-in-your-mouth sensation, and the glossy lemon glaze takes them to a whole new level of irresistible. If you’ve never tried Lemon Brownies before, get ready for a zingy, buttery adventure that might just become your new favorite baking project!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes Lemon Brownies shine is the way everyday ingredients come together to create big flavor and that signature tender crumb. Each component adds something special—whether it’s helping achieve the soft center, amping up the citrus zing, or giving the glazed finish its sparkle.
- All-purpose flour: The base of the brownies, providing structure while keeping the crumb tender.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the brownies and balances all the tart lemon flavors with just the right amount of sweetness.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the bright, citrusy flavors and keeps the brownies from tasting flat.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Gives that classic brownie richness and fudgy texture, while carrying the fresh lemon flavor throughout.
- Large eggs: Essential for binding the batter and adding moisture, giving the Lemon Brownies that signature chewy bite.
- Lemon zest: Packed with aromatic oils, zest is what gives these brownies their intense, natural lemon aroma and color.
- Lemon juice: The juice brightens everything, bringing a sparkling citrus tang to both the brownies and the glaze.
- Vanilla extract: A touch of vanilla rounds out the sharp lemon notes and brings a little warmth to the overall flavor.
- Powdered sugar (for the glaze): This gives the glaze a smooth, velvety consistency, perfect for draping over the cooled brownies.
How to Make Lemon Brownies
Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, or very lightly grease it if you prefer. The parchment paper ensures nothing sticks and makes lifting the brownies out for slicing totally stress-free.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Combining these now means you won’t have to worry about dry patches or uneven sweetness later on when the batter comes together.
Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until the mixture is silky and smooth. This step is where the brownies get their luscious flavor and delightful aroma, thanks to all that lemon and vanilla mingling together!
Step 4: Combine Batter and Bake
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just incorporated. You want to avoid over-mixing so your Lemon Brownies turn out soft and tender. Transfer the batter to your prepared pan and smooth out the top for even baking. Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Cool and Glaze
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan—this is a good time to mix up your glaze! In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and extra lemon zest to make a bright, pourable icing. Spread it evenly over the cooled brownies and let it set before slicing. Trust me, the tangy-sweet layer makes these Lemon Brownies truly next-level!
How to Serve Lemon Brownies
Garnishes
For a picture-perfect finish, try a sprinkle of extra lemon zest on top of the glaze—this really boosts the aroma and makes them look bakery-worthy. Fresh berries, like raspberries or blueberries, also pop beautifully against the sunny lemon color. And if you want to get fancy, a tiny mint sprig adds a fresh touch.
Side Dishes
Lemon Brownies already steal the show, but they’re lovely paired with something creamy, like a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a swirl of whipped cream. For an afternoon tea twist, serve them alongside a pot of Earl Grey or a herbal tisane. Their lively citrus lift plays so well with mellow drinks and creamy accents.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut these brownies into neat squares for classic appeal, or go diagonally for dainty diamond shapes at parties. For a brunch table, stack Lemon Brownies on a platter with slices of fresh lemon, or set them in pretty cupcake liners for easy pick-up treats. Want a wow-factor? Drizzle each square with a little extra glaze or white chocolate just before serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (though let’s be real, they might disappear fast), transfer the brownies to an airtight container. They’ll keep well at room temperature for up to three days, staying moist and flavorful with that gorgeous citrus glaze intact.
Freezing
These Lemon Brownies freeze surprisingly well! Once fully cooled and glazed, cut into squares and wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, then pop them into a zip-top bag or freezer-safe container. When you’re ready for a treat, just thaw at room temperature for an hour or two and enjoy.
Reheating
While Lemon Brownies taste fantastic chilled or at room temp, if you ever want to bring back that just-baked softness, you can microwave individual brownies for about 10 seconds. The glaze will become ultra-melty and even more irresistible.
FAQs
Can I double this recipe for a bigger batch?
Absolutely! Simply double all the ingredient amounts and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Check for doneness around the 25-28 minute mark; they’ll look golden around the edges and set in the center.
Are Lemon Brownies supposed to be fudgy or cakey?
Lemon Brownies are all about that rich, fudgy texture—a bit denser and moister than classic cake. They’re like blondies, just with a citrus twist instead of chocolate!
Can I make these gluten free?
Yes! Swap in your favorite 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. The results are usually just as chewy and flavorful, so everyone can enjoy them.
How much extra lemon can I add for more zing?
If you’re a true lemon lover, toss in an extra tablespoon of zest or add another teaspoon of juice to both the batter and the glaze. Taste as you go to balance tartness with sweetness!
Why is my glaze too thin or too thick?
This glaze is easy to fix—if it’s too thin, add a little more powdered sugar, a spoonful at a time. If it’s too thick, just drizzle in a bit more lemon juice until it’s perfectly pourable.
Lemon Brownies: Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a fresh, sunny treat that’s as easy to make as it is impossible to resist, you have to try these Lemon Brownies. Each bite is pure citrus joy, and they’re perfect for sharing with friends or brightening up an ordinary day. Go ahead, treat yourself—you’ll be amazed just how quickly they disappear!
Print
Lemon Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 9 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight your taste buds with these lemon brownies – a refreshing twist on traditional brownies, featuring a zesty lemon flavor in a moist and chewy bar. Topped with a tangy lemon glaze, these citrus-infused treats are perfect for any dessert occasion.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the glaze:
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 tablespoon lemon zest
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan.
- Mix dry ingredients: Combine flour, sugar, and salt in a medium bowl.
- Prepare wet ingredients: In another bowl, mix melted butter, eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
- Combine ingredients: Mix wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Pour into pan.
- Bake: Bake for 22–25 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Make the glaze: Mix powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest. Spread over cooled brownies.
- Serve: Allow glaze to set before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For a stronger lemon flavor, add an extra tablespoon of lemon zest.
- Best served chilled or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
