Lemon Brownies [40 Minutes] (2024)

Lemon Brownies, also known as “lemonies,” offer a delightful twist on the traditional chocolate brownie. Unlike their chocolate counterparts, lemon brownies are characterized by their dense, moist texture and vibrant lemon flavor. This dessert combines the best of both worlds: the chewy, satisfying consistency of brownies and the refreshing, tangy taste of lemon. It’s a perfect treat for those who love citrus-flavored desserts or are looking for something a little different from the usual sweet repertoire.

Why You’ll Love Lemon Brownies

Lemon Brownies are irresistibly tangy and sweet, providing a burst of bright lemon flavor in every bite. These brownies are made with real lemon juice and zest, offering an authentic and refreshing taste. They are incredibly moist and dense, with a soft, almost fudgy texture that melts in your mouth. The addition of a lemon glaze on top adds an extra layer of sweetness and zing, making them even more delectable. Lemon Brownies are simple to make and require only a handful of ingredients, making them a quick and easy treat for any occasion.

Expert Tips and Tricks

• Use Fresh Lemons: For the best flavor, use fresh lemons to extract the juice and zest. The freshness makes a significant difference in taste.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies.
• Thin Glaze to Preference: Adjust the consistency of the glaze with more or less lemon juice to get your desired thickness.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

• Gluten-Free Flour: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
• Add-Ins: Incorporate poppy seeds into the batter for a lemon poppy seed variation.
• Vegan Version: Substitute the butter with vegan butter and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 15 minutes) instead of a regular egg.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Lemon Brownies are a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed on their own or as part of a larger dessert spread. They pair wonderfully with fresh berries, offering a balance between sweet and tart flavors. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream for a decadent treat, or accompany them with a cup of tea for a delightful afternoon snack. Lemon Brownies are also a refreshing end to a heavy meal, providing a light and zesty finish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Room Temperature Storage: Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate for Longer Freshness: Keep them in the refrigerator to extend their shelf life to up to a week.
• Freezing: Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Recipe FAQs

• Can I make the batter in advance? It’s best to bake the brownies soon after making the batter to keep the leavening agents active.
• How do I know when they’re done? The edges should be set and slightly golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with few crumbs.
• Can I use bottled lemon juice? Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

Lemon Brownies

Yield: 16 brownies

Prep Time: 15 minutes

See Also

Best ever chocolate brownies recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Brighten your dessert menu with these zesty Lemon Brownies, a perfect blend of tangy lemon and sweet, moist cake. Quick and easy to make, they're an ideal treat for any occasion, promising a burst of sunshine in every bite.

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (from about 1/2 lemon)

For the Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons lemon juice (adjust for desired consistency)
• Additional lemon zest for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Add Eggs: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next. Then, mix in the lemon zest and lemon juice until well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined and no flour pockets remain. Avoid overmixing to ensure a soft texture.
5. Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached. Be careful not to overbake, as this will dry them out.
6. Prepare the Glaze: While the brownies cool, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more lemon juice or powdered sugar as needed. The glaze should be pourable but thick.
7. Glaze and Garnish: Once the brownies have cooled completely in the pan, pour the glaze over the top, using a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it evenly. Sprinkle additional lemon zest over the glaze for a pop of color and flavor if desired.
8. Slice and Serve: Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before using the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan. Slice into squares or rectangles and serve.

Notes

Enhance Lemon Flavor: For an even more intense lemon flavor, increase the amount of lemon zest in the batter. You can also infuse the sugar with lemon zest by rubbing them toether before mixing with other ingredients.

Texture Variations: For a crunchier texture, consider adding a thin layer of sliced almonds on top of the batter before baking.

Serving Suggestion: Serve lemon brownies chilled for a refreshing summer treat. They're particularly delightful when enjoyed cold, enhancing the lemon flavor and providing a firm texture.

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 16Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving:Calories: 145Total Fat: 6gSaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 39mgSodium: 44mgCarbohydrates: 21gFiber: 0gSugar: 16gProtein: 2g