Lemon Brownie Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweetness and tanginess, you’ve come to the right place! This Lemon Brownie Recipe has quickly become a cherished favorite in my kitchen. With its soft, moist texture and bright lemon flavor, these lemon brownies are perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. It’s a simple dessert that brings smiles to everyone’s faces, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions.

These lemon brownies are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up. You’ll find them disappearing quickly, whether you’re serving them at a potluck or enjoying them with your morning coffee. Trust me; once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Lemon Brownie Recipe comes together in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy days!
• Family Favorite: The sweet and tangy flavor appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Delight: These brownies can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or just a regular Tuesday, these brownies fit right in.
• Refreshing Flavor: The burst of lemon in every bite makes these brownies stand out from traditional treats.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to know that this recipe requires simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have at home. Let’s gather everything we need to make these delightful lemon brownies!

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 wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

• Add Some Color: Toss in some blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
• Mix Up the Zest: Try using lime zest instead of lemon for a different citrus flavor.
• Nutty Addition: Fold in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dairy-free chocolate over the top for a decadent finish.

How to Make Lemon Brownie Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preparing your baking pan is essential too; spray an 8×8 pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. This ensures your brownies come out easily without sticking!

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a large bowl or the bowl of your stand mixer, combine 1/2 cup softened salted butter, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, and the zest of one lemon. Beat until light and fluffy — this step helps create that lovely texture we all adore. Next, add your two eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, stir in 1 Tablespoon of fresh lemon juice along with 3/4 cup all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon baking powder until just combined.

Step 3: Bake

Pour the luscious batter into your prepared pan, smoothing it into an even layer. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allowing them to cool for about 10-15 minutes before glazing will help set their texture perfectly.

Step 4: Glaze Your Brownies

While your brownies cool, whisk together 3/4 cup powdered sugar, 1 1/2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice, and the zest from half a lemon in a small bowl. Once your brownies have cooled slightly, pour this zesty glaze over them, spreading it evenly to coat every delicious corner.

Step 5: Cool and Slice

Let your brownies cool completely before slicing them into 16 squares. Patience pays off here! Once they’re sliced, they are ready to enjoy — share them with friends or keep them all to yourself (no judgment here!).

Now that you’ve crafted these amazing treats using this Lemon Brownie Recipe, get ready for compliments from everyone who tries them! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Brownie Recipe

Baking can be a delightful experience, and these tips will help you achieve the perfect lemon brownies every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter and eggs to room temperature ensures they blend smoothly, resulting in a light and fluffy batter.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined helps maintain a tender texture. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies.
• Check for doneness: Ovens vary, so start checking your brownies a few minutes early. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs for the perfect chewy texture.
• Let them cool completely: Allowing the brownies to cool before slicing prevents them from falling apart and makes for cleaner cuts.
• Customize your glaze: Feel free to add more lemon zest or even a splash of vanilla extract for an extra flavor boost in your glaze!

How to Serve Lemon Brownie Recipe

These lemon brownies are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Present them beautifully to make any gathering special.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness.
• Fresh mint leaves: Adding a couple of mint leaves on top brings a pop of color and freshness that pairs wonderfully with the tangy lemon flavor.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream balances the tartness of the lemon brownies perfectly.
• Fresh berries: Serve with strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of color and natural sweetness.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, whipped coconut cream is light and airy, enhancing the dessert without overpowering it.
• Lemon sorbet: This refreshing treat complements the brownies’ flavors while adding another layer of citrusy goodness.

Enjoy these delightful lemon brownies as a comforting dessert that brings brightness to any occasion!

Make Ahead and Storage

These lemon brownies are perfect for meal prep! Their delightful flavors and moisture make them a great treat to enjoy throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate them where they can last up to a week.
• Ensure they are completely cooled before storing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap each brownie square in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing their delicious flavor.
• Label your container with the date so you know how long they’ve been stored.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm brownies, remove the desired amount from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours.
• You can reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in an oven preheated to 350°F for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

If you’re wondering about this delightful Lemon Brownie Recipe, here are some common questions!

Can I use lemon extract instead of fresh lemon juice?

Yes! If you don’t have fresh lemons on hand, you can substitute about 1 teaspoon of lemon extract for the juice. However, fresh lemons will provide a brighter flavor.

What makes this Lemon Brownie Recipe different from regular brownies?

This Lemon Brownie Recipe features a bright citrus flavor and a softer texture compared to traditional chocolate brownies. The addition of lemon zest and juice gives it a unique tanginess that’s irresistible!

How can I adjust the sweetness of my Lemon Brownies?

If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the granulated sugar by 1/4 cup. Just be aware that this may slightly affect the texture.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope this Lemon Brownie Recipe brings as much joy to your kitchen as it has brought to mine! With its sweet-tangy profile and soft, moist texture, it’s hard not to love these little squares of sunshine. Enjoy making these treats, share them with friends or family, and don’t forget to savor every bite! Happy baking!