Lemon Brownies

Lemon Brownies are a zesty twist on the traditional chocolate treat—dense, chewy, and bursting with bright lemon flavor. These bars combine the soft, fudgy texture of a brownie with the tangy sweetness of fresh lemon and a light glaze on top, making them a refreshing and irresistible dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These lemon brownies are everything you want in a lemon dessert: tart, sweet, and beautifully moist. They’re easy to make, don’t require any special ingredients, and strike the perfect balance between citrusy brightness and rich texture.

• Dense and chewy like a brownie—but lemon flavored
• Bursting with real lemon zest and juice
• Simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
• Glazed for an extra touch of sweetness
• Perfect for spring, brunches, and lemon lovers

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Unsalted butter, melted
• Eggs
• Fresh lemon juice
• Lemon zest
• Salt
• Baking powder
• Powdered sugar (for glaze)
• Optional: vanilla extract (for depth of flavor in the glaze)

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder.
3. In another bowl, whisk together melted butter, sugar, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
7. While the brownies cool, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar with lemon juice (and a little vanilla extract if desired) until smooth.
8. Once the brownies are mostly cooled, pour the glaze over the top and spread evenly.
9. Let the glaze set before cutting into squares and serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 9–12 bars
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 25–30 minutes
• Total time: About 40 minutes

Variations

• Lemon-lime version: Add lime juice and zest for a citrus twist.
• Lemon poppy seed brownies: Stir in 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds for texture and visual appeal.
• Gluten-free option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
• Coconut glaze: Replace lemon juice in the glaze with coconut milk for a tropical flavor.
• Extra tangy: Add more lemon zest or a touch of lemon extract for intensified citrus flavor.

storage/reheating

Store lemon brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen (without glaze) for up to 2 months—just thaw and glaze before serving. Reheating is not necessary, but if desired, warm slightly in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.

FAQs

Are lemon brownies supposed to be cakey or fudgy?

They’re meant to be dense and chewy, like traditional chocolate brownies—but with a lemon twist.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.

How do I know when lemon brownies are done baking?

They’re ready when the center is just set and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. You may need to increase the baking time slightly.

Do lemon brownies need to be refrigerated?

They don’t require refrigeration but will stay fresher longer if kept chilled.

Can I skip the glaze?

Yes, but the glaze enhances both flavor and appearance, so it’s highly recommended.

How do I make them more tart?

Add extra lemon zest or a dash of citric acid for a stronger tang.

What type of sugar should I use for the glaze?

Powdered sugar is best—it dissolves easily and creates a smooth finish.

Can I freeze lemon brownies?

Yes, freeze them in layers separated by parchment paper. Add glaze after thawing for best results.

Why are they called brownies if there’s no chocolate?

The name refers to the brownie-like texture—dense, moist, and fudgy—not the flavor.

Conclusion

Lemon Brownies are a bright and satisfying treat that offers the texture of a brownie with a citrusy twist. With minimal prep and bold lemon flavor, they’re a unique dessert that’s sure to become a favorite. Perfect for springtime baking, afternoon snacks, or anytime you’re craving something sweet and sunny.

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