Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe
If you’re searching for your next crowd-pleasing dessert, look no further than this Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe. These bars are stunningly simple but pack an irresistible citrus punch in every bite — think dense, chewy brownie texture with all the zingy brightness of fresh lemon. It’s a sunshine-filled treat that brings together friendly baking and fabulous flavor, perfect for sharing (if you can bear it!).
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe is all about uncomplicated ingredients that work together for big rewards. Each one is essential for creating that perfect, vibrant, springy bite — let’s walk through each so you know exactly why they matter!
- All-purpose flour: The sturdy foundation gives your brownies their structure while keeping them light enough to melt in your mouth.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the brownies and ensures their pleasantly dense chew.
- Salt: Just a touch heightens every other flavor — don’t skip it!
- Unsalted butter (softened): Creates that rich, satisfying crumb and enhances lemony goodness.
- Large eggs (room temperature): Bind everything together for a fudgy, tender texture.
- Lemon zest (2–3 lemons): Packs in fragrant, bright flavor for unmistakable citrusy punch.
- Fresh lemon juice: Delivers tang, moisture, and that unmistakable lemon sparkle.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth, rounding out all the tart notes.
- Powdered sugar: Key for the dreamy, lemony glaze that melts over the golden bars.
- More lemon juice (for glaze): Keeps the topping lively and ultra-refreshing.
- Extra lemon zest (for garnish): For a bright finish and a pop of color.
How to Make Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), then line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. A little extra overhang on the sides makes it so much easier to lift the brownies out later. Lightly grease the parchment for effortless release.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. This move helps you distribute the salt evenly, so every bite of your Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe tastes just right.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together for 3 to 4 minutes until pale and fluffy. This step is key for that tender, melt-in-your-mouth crumb and ensures a smooth, even batter.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavors
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract. This trio creates the signature lively, exclusive flavor that makes this Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe unforgettable.
Step 5: Finish the Batter
Gently fold the flour mixture into your lemony wet ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your brownies tender and fudgy — it’s perfectly fine if there are a few little lumps.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading evenly into the corners. Slide it into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or just until the edges are lightly golden and the center looks set. Don’t overbake — we want that rich, chewy texture!
Step 7: Cool Completely
Let the brownies cool entirely in the pan. This patience pays off with neat slices and the best flavor.
Step 8: Make and Add the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, 2–3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, and a tablespoon of lemon zest. Once the brownies are absolutely cool, pour the glaze evenly over the top, letting it trickle into every corner.
Step 9: Let the Glaze Set
Give the glaze at least 30 minutes to set before lifting your Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe out of the pan and cutting into squares. The wait is truly worth it — your bars will slice neatly and look spectacular.
How to Serve Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
For an inviting, vibrant finish, sprinkle additional fresh lemon zest over the glaze just before serving. You could also top each piece with a thin lemon wheel, some edible flowers, or a dusting of extra powdered sugar for a touch of bakery magic.
Side Dishes
The Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe shines with a few simple sides. Pair them with juicy fresh berries, a billowy dollop of whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an all-out treat. Even a cup of herbal tea or strong coffee complements the zesty sweetness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow at gatherings, try layering squares on a cake stand with parchment between the layers, or nestle portions in colorful cupcake liners for easy serving. For special occasions, drizzle the plates with berry coulis or a little lemon curd before placing your brownies on top.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They stay rich and chewy, and the glaze may become even more infused with lemon flavor over time.
Freezing
These bars freeze beautifully! Cut the brownies, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and store in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for two to three months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.
Reheating
If you like your brownies slightly warm, pop them in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This little trick revives the fudgy texture and makes the lemon glaze extra soft and aromatic.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While bottled lemon juice is convenient, fresh lemon juice and zest truly set this Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe apart. The flavor is much brighter and cleaner, so I highly recommend sticking with fresh lemons if possible.
What’s the best way to zest a lemon?
Use a fine microplane or zester to gently remove only the yellow outer layer of the lemon, avoiding the bitter white pith beneath. Zest your lemons before juicing for the easiest prep.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
The edges should look just golden and the center set but not dry. You can insert a toothpick near the center; a few moist crumbs are just right. Overbaking will make them less fudgy, so keep a close eye!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap in a good-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. The results are still delightful and bursting with lemony goodness.
Why is my glaze too thin or runny?
If your glaze is too runny, simply add a bit more powdered sugar until it’s thick but pourable. If it’s too thick, add a few drops more lemon juice. Adjust to your liking for perfect draping over your Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to take a bite of these sparkling, irresistible bars — Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe is pure joy in every slice. Whether for a family picnic, a bake sale, or a well-deserved treat at home, these brownies will win everyone over. Go ahead, grab your lemons, and bake a batch today!
Print
Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Easy Lemon Brownies are a delightful twist on traditional brownies, offering a burst of citrusy freshness in every bite. With a soft, chewy texture and a tangy glaze, these lemon brownies are a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest (2–3 lemons)
- ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Instructions
- Preparation: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper. Grease parchment paper lightly.
- Make Batter: Whisk flour and salt. Cream butter and sugar (3-4 minutes). Add eggs one at a time. Mix in lemon zest, juice, and vanilla. Fold in flour mixture.
- Bake: Pour batter into pan. Bake 25-30 minutes. Cool completely.
- Glaze: Mix powdered sugar and lemon juice. Add zest. Pour over cooled brownies. Let set 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Lemon Brownies, Citrus Dessert, Easy Brownies Recipe
