Best Lemon Brownies Recipe | Bright & Fudgy Citrus Bars
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Brighten your dessert table with these luscious Lemon Brownies! With a soft, fudgy texture and zesty lemon flavor, these citrus bars are perfect for spring gatherings or a refreshing sweet treat any time of year. Easy to make and packed with bright flavors, they will quickly become a family favorite.
These Lemon Brownies are a delightful twist on classic brownies. The bright citrus notes pair perfectly with the fudgy texture, making them an instant favorite!
A Perfect Balance of Sweet and Tart
These Lemon Brownies strike a delightful balance between sweetness and tartness, making them irresistible to citrus lovers. Each bite bursts with fresh lemon flavor, complemented by a rich, fudgy texture that feels indulgent yet light. The combination of lemon zest and juice in the brownie base elevates the taste, ensuring that every square is packed with zest and character.
Unlike traditional brownies, these lemon-infused treats bring a refreshing twist to the dessert table. The natural acidity of lemons enhances the overall flavor profile, making them perfect for a warm day or a festive gathering. If you're a fan of lemon desserts, these brownies are a must-try and are sure to impress your guests.
Easy to Make with Simple Ingredients
One of the best things about these Lemon Brownies is how easy they are to make. Using simple, everyday ingredients that you might already have in your pantry, you can whip up a batch in no time. The recipe calls for unsalted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and fresh lemons, ensuring you get that vibrant flavor without any complicated steps.
You don't need to be an experienced baker to create these delightful bars. The straightforward process involves mixing wet and dry ingredients separately before combining them, which helps in achieving that perfect texture. This makes it a great recipe for baking novices as well as seasoned chefs looking for a quick and delicious dessert.
Versatile for Any Occasion
Whether you're hosting a spring brunch, a summer picnic, or simply craving a sweet treat, these Lemon Brownies are the ideal choice. Their bright flavor and inviting appearance make them a fantastic addition to any dessert spread. You can even serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent experience.
Moreover, the bars can be easily customized. Feel free to add white chocolate chips for a delightful contrast or a hint of poppy seeds for added texture. They also travel well, making them perfect for potlucks or gifting to friends and family. No matter the occasion, these Lemon Brownies are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients:
For the Brownies
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your Lemon Brownies:
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking pan.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine melted butter and sugar. Add eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Combine Everything
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Prepare the Glaze
While the brownies are baking, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth.
Glaze the Brownies
Once brownies are cool, spread the glaze over the top and let set before slicing into bars.
Enjoy your delicious lemon brownies!
Tips for Success
To achieve the best results with your Lemon Brownies, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Using weight measurements for things like flour can help achieve consistency. It's also crucial to properly zest the lemons, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath the skin. Fresh lemons will yield the brightest flavor, so opt for those rather than bottled lemon juice whenever possible.
Additionally, check the brownies a few minutes before the minimum baking time. Oven temperatures can vary, and the brownies should be set but still slightly soft in the center. Allowing them to cool completely before adding the glaze ensures a smooth finish and prevents the glaze from melting!
Storage Recommendations
These Lemon Brownies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, which can extend their freshness to about a week. Be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving, as this will enhance their fudgy texture.
For longer storage, you can freeze the brownies. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use bottled lemon juice?
While fresh lemon juice is preferred for the best flavor, bottled lemon juice will work in a pinch.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Best Lemon Brownies Recipe | Bright & Fudgy Citrus Bars
Brighten your dessert table with these luscious Lemon Brownies! With a soft, fudgy texture and zesty lemon flavor, these citrus bars are perfect for spring gatherings or a refreshing sweet treat any time of year. Easy to make and packed with bright flavors, they will quickly become a family favorite.
Created by: Keira Dalton
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 16 bars
What You'll Need
For the Brownies
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, combine melted butter and sugar. Add eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
While the brownies are baking, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth.
Once brownies are cool, spread the glaze over the top and let set before slicing into bars.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 2g