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Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe

4.7 from 502 reviews

These Easy Lemon Brownies offer a delightful twist on traditional brownies by incorporating fresh lemon zest and juice for a bright, tangy flavor. With a moist, buttery texture and a sweet lemon glaze, they make a perfect treat for any occasion, balancing sweet and citrus notes beautifully.

Ingredients

Scale

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 (from 23 lemons)
  • ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Glaze

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 23 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Instructions

  1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the parchment to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt until well combined. Set aside.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, cream softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar for 3 to 4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
  4. Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated.
  5. Add Flavors: Mix in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract until evenly combined.
  6. Combine Wet and Dry: Gently fold the whisked flour and salt mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the brownies.
  7. Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
  8. Cool: Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
  9. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2 to 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice until smooth. Stir in 1 tablespoon of lemon zest for texture and added flavor.
  10. Glaze the Brownies: Pour the lemon glaze over the cooled brownies, spreading evenly. Let the glaze set for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • For a stronger lemon flavor, use Meyer lemons if available.
  • Ensure eggs are at room temperature to help create a light, fluffy batter.
  • Do not overbake; brownies should be moist inside for the best texture.
  • Allow glaze to fully set to avoid it sliding off when cutting.
  • Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.

Keywords: lemon brownies, easy lemon dessert, citrus brownies, lemon glaze brownies, quick lemon dessert