Why make this recipe
Lemon brownies are a delightful twist on traditional brownies, bringing a refreshing burst of citrus flavor to your dessert table. They are easy to make, soft, and chewy, which makes them a perfect treat for any occasion. If you love the taste of lemon and want a dessert that stands out, this recipe is for you. Plus, they can be whipped up quickly, making them ideal for last-minute gatherings or cravings.
How to make Easy Lemon Brownies
Ingredients:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest (from 2-3 lemons)
- ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Directions:
Preparation:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Make Batter:
In a large bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Mix until creamy. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, stirring until combined.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the brownies to cool in the pan.
Glaze:
Once the brownies are cool, make the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled brownies.
How to serve Easy Lemon Brownies
Cut the lemon brownies into squares or rectangles and serve them on a nice plate. They taste great on their own or can be paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added sweetness.
How to store Easy Lemon Brownies
Store the lemon brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. If you want to keep them for a longer period, consider freezing them. Wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months.
Tips to make Easy Lemon Brownies
- For an extra lemony flavor, add more lemon zest to the batter and the glaze.
- Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for the best mixing results.
- Don’t overbake the brownies; keep an eye on them to ensure they remain soft and chewy.
Variation
You can add white chocolate chips or nuts to the batter for an added texture and flavor. Alternatively, swap the lemon juice for orange juice for a different citrus twist.
FAQs
What can I use instead of butter?
You can substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
While fresh lemon juice tastes best, bottled lemon juice is a convenient alternative if fresh lemons are not available.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
The brownies are done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Easy Lemon Brownies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful lemon brownies that offer a refreshing twist on traditional desserts with a soft and chewy texture.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest (from 2-3 lemons)
- ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Mix until creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the brownies to cool in the pan.
- Make the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over cooled brownies.
- Cut the brownies into squares or rectangles and serve. They can be enjoyed plain or with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Notes
For an extra lemony flavor, add more lemon zest. Ensure eggs are at room temperature for the best mixing. Don’t overbake the brownies.