Lemon Brownie Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that will brighten your day, this Lemon Brownie Recipe is just the ticket! These lemon brownies are not your average dessert; they pack a sweet and tangy punch that dances on your taste buds. What makes them truly special is their soft, moist texture, enhanced by a luscious glaze that brings everything together beautifully.

Whether you’re in need of a quick pick-me-up during a busy weeknight or something to impress guests at family gatherings, these lemon brownies are perfect for any occasion. I love how easy they are to whip up and how they fill the house with an irresistible citrus aroma.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Lemon Brownie Recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those last-minute dessert cravings.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves these sweet and tangy treats! They are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can bake these brownies in advance and store them for later, making them great for meal prepping or unexpected guests.
• Deliciously Flavorful: With fresh lemon zest and juice, each bite bursts with flavor that leaves you wanting more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to baking these delicious lemon brownies, simple and wholesome ingredients are all you need. Most of these items are likely already in your kitchen!

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 quite flexible, allowing you to add your own twist! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Coconut Flakes: Mix in some unsweetened coconut flakes for a tropical feel!
• Include Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch.
• Try Different Citrus: Experiment with lime or orange zest for a unique flavor profile.
• Top with Berries: Add fresh berries on top of the glaze for extra sweetness and color.

How to Make Lemon Brownie Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This step is crucial because starting with a hot oven helps the brownies rise properly. Prepare an 8×8 pan by spraying it with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper. This will ensure that your delicious brownies come out easily after baking.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, beat together 1/2 cup of softened salted butter, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, and the zest of one lemon until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, giving your brownies that lovely texture. Add the two eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Finally, add 3/4 cup of flour and 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder; mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing as this can lead to dense brownies.

Step 3: Bake the Brownies

Pour your batter into the prepared pan and smooth it into an even layer using a spatula. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them towards the end so they don’t overbake! Once done, let them cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before moving on.

Step 4: Prepare the Glaze

While your brownies cool slightly, whisk together 3/4 cup powdered sugar, 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, and zest from half a lemon until smooth. Pour this zesty glaze over your slightly cooled brownies and spread evenly to coat them beautifully.

Step 5: Cool and Slice

Let everything cool completely before slicing into squares—this step is essential as it allows the glaze to set nicely on top. Once cooled, slice into 16 squares and get ready to enjoy every tangy bite!

These Lemon Brownies will certainly become one of your favorite treats! Enjoy sharing them with friends or keeping them all to yourself; I won’t tell!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Brownie Recipe

Making these lemon brownies can be a delightful experience, and with a few helpful tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemons provide the best flavor. The zest and juice from fresh lemons will elevate your brownies and make them taste vibrant and zesty.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Once you add the flour and baking powder, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to denser brownies, while gentle mixing keeps them light and moist.

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your brownies as they bake. Insert a toothpick about an inch from the edge; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they’re ready!

• Let them cool completely: Allowing the brownies to cool fully before slicing helps them set up nicely and makes it easier to cut into neat squares without crumbling.

• Adjust sweetness if desired: If you prefer a less sweet brownie, feel free to reduce the granulated sugar slightly. This will give you a more balanced lemon flavor that shines through.

How to Serve Lemon Brownie Recipe

These lemon brownies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy evening at home. Here are some ideas to enhance your serving experience!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and enhances the visual appeal of your brownies.
• Lemon slices or wedges: Placing thin lemon slices on top or alongside each square adds color and reinforces that delicious lemon flavor.
• Fresh mint leaves: A sprig of mint not only adds a pop of color but also gives a refreshing aroma that complements the tangy lemon.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the tangy lemon brownies, making each bite even more indulgent.
• Berry salad: A mix of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the brownies.
• Whipped coconut cream: This dairy-free option is light yet creamy, making it a perfect accompaniment to serve alongside your lemon brownies.
• Tea or lemonade: Offering a refreshing beverage like iced tea or homemade lemonade enhances the overall experience and complements the citrusy notes in the brownies beautifully.

Enjoy your baking adventure! These tips and serving suggestions will help you create not only delicious but also beautifully presented lemon brownies that everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

These lemon brownies are perfect for meal prep and can be made ahead of time for a sweet treat whenever you need it. They store beautifully, so you can always have a delicious dessert on hand!

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 for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut the cooled brownies into squares.
• Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.

Reheating

• If desired, you can warm the brownies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, place them in an oven preheated to 300°F for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

You might have some questions about this delightful Lemon Brownie Recipe. Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use a different type of flour for the Lemon Brownie Recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour if you’re looking for a gluten-free option. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Lemon Brownie Recipe?

To amp up the lemon flavor, try adding more zest or using a bit of lemon extract in addition to fresh juice. This will give your brownies an extra burst of citrusy goodness!

Can I make these lemon brownies vegan?

Yes! To make this Lemon Brownie Recipe vegan, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use plant-based butter instead.

How long do these lemon brownies last?

When stored properly, your lemon brownies will last up to 3 days at room temperature or about a week in the fridge. If frozen, they can last up to 3 months!

Final Thoughts

These lemon brownies are truly special with their sweet and tangy flavors that brighten any day. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them as a personal treat, they’re sure to impress. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with joy and delicious aromas!