Dessert

Lemon Brownies Recipe

Name: Lemon Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 2 tbsp lemon zest; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp lemon zest

ByLily Cross August 19, 2025August 19, 2025

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a citrusy treat with a sunshine-bright twist, you’re in for a real delight with these Lemon Brownies! Forget every lemon dessert you’ve tried before; these are something special, combining the soft, fudgy texture of brownies with the fresh zing of lemon. Perfectly sweet but never cloying, they’re easy to whip up and even easier to fall in love with—ideal for picnics, tea parties, or just a simple afternoon snack that perks up your day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of these Lemon Brownies is how just a handful of simple ingredients can come together in such a luscious way. Each one plays a key role, from the creamy richness of butter to the citrus punch of fresh lemon. Here’s your unbeatable lineup:

All-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure while keeping the brownies tender, not cakey.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dessert and helps create a soft, fudgy crumb.
Salt: Just a pinch goes a long way to amplify the brightness of the lemon and the richness of butter.
Unsalted butter (softened): Lends a velvety moisture and depth that make these brownies melt in your mouth.
Large eggs: Bind everything together for that signature brownie chew.
Lemon zest: Packed with essential oils, it brings explosive lemon fragrance and color.
Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is best—it’s the brightest note in these brownies and the glaze!
Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle, balancing warmth that rounds out the sharp citrus.
Powdered sugar (for glaze): Dissolves beautifully for a smooth, dreamy finish atop your brownies.
Lemon juice (for glaze): Mirrors the flavor in the base, making the glaze POP with lemony zing.
Lemon zest (for glaze): Dials up the wow factor and gives a gorgeous, flecked appearance.

How to Make Lemon Brownies

Step 1: Prep Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This simple step ensures every single Lemon Brownie lifts out with ease and clean edges—they’ll look as perfect as they taste!

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mix looks pale, fluffy, and creamy. This is the secret to a soft, tender crumb, so don’t rush—give it a good couple of minutes with a hand mixer or a sturdy whisk.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Flavors

Add the eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next. Stir in the lemon juice, zest, and vanilla extract. The mixture will smell absolutely heavenly at this point—fresh, aromatic, and packed with promise.

Step 4: Mix in Dry Ingredients

Gently fold in the flour and salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if you see a streak or two—this keeps your Lemon Brownies tender rather than tough.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Pop it into the oven and bake for 22–25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Step 6: Cool and Glaze

Let the brownies cool completely in the pan. While they cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest for the glaze. Once cool, spread the glaze evenly over the top and chill for at least 15 minutes to set for sliceable, shiny squares.

How to Serve Lemon Brownies

Garnishes

For a crowd-pleasing wow factor, dust the top with extra lemon zest or add candied citrus slices. A handful of fresh berries can also add a splash of color and freshness that plays beautifully with the citrus in your Lemon Brownies.

Side Dishes

Pair with a scoop of vanilla or berry ice cream for an indulgent dessert, or serve alongside a mug of hot tea or iced coffee for an afternoon treat. Lemon Brownies truly shine as a light finish after a hearty meal or as a zippy snack on a sunny day.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut your Lemon Brownies into mini squares for a party platter, layer them with whipped cream and berries in parfait glasses, or wrap individual bars in parchment for picnic-perfect portions. These brownies are as photogenic as they are delicious—let your imagination run wild!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Lemon Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The glaze helps keep them moist, but if your kitchen runs warm, consider refrigerating for ultimate freshness.

Freezing

Lemon Brownies freeze beautifully! Cut them into squares, wrap individually in plastic wrap, and tuck into a resealable freezer bag. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to two months—just thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

If you love that just-baked softness, a quick 10 seconds in the microwave will refresh your Lemon Brownies, making them taste like they just came out of the oven. Enjoy warm for an extra comforting touch!

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

While bottled juice will work in a pinch, fresh lemon juice (and zest) really make a world of difference, giving these brownies that vibrant citrus flavor that stands out.

Are Lemon Brownies supposed to be cakey or fudgy?

The beauty of this recipe is its dense, almost fudgy texture—think brownie, not cake! They’re rich and moist, with just enough crumb to hold together perfectly.

What’s the best way to zest lemons?

A microplane zester works best for getting fine, fragrant zest without any bitter white pith. It infuses the entire batch with bold citrus aroma and flavor.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Double all of the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan instead. Keep an eye on the baking time—it may take a few minutes longer, so check with a toothpick in the center to be sure.

How do I cut neat squares?

For crisp, clean edges, chill the glazed brownies for at least 15–30 minutes, use a sharp knife, and wipe the blade clean between cuts. This helps ensure every Lemon Brownie looks as irresistible as it tastes!

Final Thoughts

This recipe is pure citrusy comfort, and I hope you’ll fall head over heels for these Lemon Brownies! With their zesty flavor, luscious glaze, and just-right texture, they’re the kind of treat everyone remembers. Give them a whirl in your own kitchen, and let your friends and family savor every sunny bite.