Name: Lemon Brownie Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup salted butter, softened (1 stick); 3/4 cup granulated sugar; Zest of 1 lemon; 2 large eggs; 1 Tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 3/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 3/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 1/2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice; Zest of 1/2 lemon

Jump to Recipe

If you are craving something that brilliantly combines the tangy brightness of lemon with the rich, comforting texture of a brownie, you need to try this Lemon Brownie Recipe. It’s a delightful twist on classic brownies, bursting with lemon zest and juice that cut through the buttery sweetness perfectly. Each bite promises a moist, tender crumb topped with a shiny lemon glaze that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Whether for a sunny afternoon treat or a cheerful dessert, this Lemon Brownie Recipe will quickly become one of your favorite go-to sweets.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the right balance in these lemon brownies happens because of a handful of simple, yet essential ingredients. Each element has a specific role, whether it’s adding moisture, flavor, or that perfect tender crumb you want every time.

1/2 cup salted butter (softened): Adds richness and a smooth texture to the batter, ensuring the brownies stay moist.
3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter while helping achieve a light, fluffy texture when creamed with butter.
1 lemon (zested): Provides that essential bright citrus flavor that defines this recipe.
2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the soft, yet structured texture.
1 Tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Enhances the lemon flavor and adds a bit of acidity to balance the sweetness.
3/4 cup all-purpose flour: The backbone of the brownies, giving them body without heaviness.
1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the brownies rise slightly for a tender crumb.
3/4 cup powdered sugar (for glaze): Sweet and smooth, perfect for the lemon glaze topping.
1 1/2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for glaze): Adds a punch of citrus tang to balance the glaze’s sweetness.
Zest of 1/2 lemon (for glaze): Provides a fresh, aromatic finish that makes the glaze extra special.

How to Make Lemon Brownie Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures your brownies bake evenly right from the start. Prepare your 8×8 inch pan by either spraying it with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper. This step is key for easy removal later.

Step 2: Cream Butter, Sugar, and Lemon Zest

In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and the zest of one lemon until the mixture is light, fluffy, and fragrant. This base gives your brownies that wonderful lemon pop paired with buttery richness.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Lemon Juice

Next, add your eggs one at a time, blending fully after each addition to keep the batter smooth and airy. Then mix in the fresh lemon juice, which will brighten the flavor while helping the batter stay tender.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gently fold in the flour and baking powder until just combined. Avoid overmixing here to keep your brownies from becoming tough. You want a batter that holds together beautifully but remains soft and moist once baked.

Step 5: Bake Your Brownies

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the brownies cool for about 10 to 15 minutes before glazing.

Step 6: Make and Apply the Lemon Glaze

Whisk together powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and zest from half a lemon to make a smooth, tangy glaze. Pour it evenly over the warm brownies, spreading gently to cover every inch. This glaze offers the perfect complement of sweet and citrus zestiness.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Allow the brownies to cool completely for the best texture and to let the glaze set properly. Once cooled, slice into 16 squares, ready to enjoy or share!

How to Serve Lemon Brownie Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of additional lemon zest or a few fresh mint leaves make a visually stunning and fresh garnish. For a little extra indulgence, try a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of white chocolate to amp up the sweetness alongside the tang.

Side Dishes

These lemon brownies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a serving of fresh berries, which complement the citrus flavor and offer a contrasting texture to the soft brownie.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your lemon brownies in small mason jars topped with glaze and whipped cream, or layer them in parfait glasses with lemon curd and fresh fruit to make a stunning dessert presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover lemon brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain freshness and moisture. They’re best enjoyed within this timeframe for optimal flavor.

Freezing

If you want to save your lemon brownies for longer, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

To refresh your brownies, warm them up in the microwave for about 15 seconds or in a low-temperature oven for 5 to 7 minutes. This helps bring back that fresh-baked softness and makes the glaze slightly melty and irresistible.

FAQs

Can I use regular (unsalted) butter for this Lemon Brownie Recipe?

Yes, you can. If using unsalted butter, simply add a pinch of salt to the batter to enhance the flavors and balance the sweetness.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder for the best texture.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies after about 20 minutes of baking. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your brownies are perfectly baked.

Can I add other flavors to the Lemon Brownie Recipe?

Definitely! Adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or folding in some poppy seeds can complement the lemon flavor wonderfully. You could even swirl in some cream cheese before baking for a rich variation.

What’s the best way to cut these brownies without the glaze smudging?

Allow the glaze to fully set and the brownies to cool completely before slicing. Using a sharp knife warmed slightly under hot water and then wiped dry helps make clean cuts without smudging the glaze.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Brownie Recipe brings together the best of soft, buttery treats with a lively citrus kick that’s hard to resist. It’s an ideal recipe to brighten up your dessert menu and impress friends with something unexpected. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how effortlessly this loaf of sunshine lifts your spirits, one luscious bite at a time!

Lemon Brownie Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 20 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 16 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These lemon brownies are a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors with a soft, moist texture. Topped with a luscious lemon glaze that balances sweetness with citrus zest, this lemon blondie recipe infuses fresh lemon juice and zest into every bite for a refreshing dessert treat.

Instructions

Prep Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8×8 inch baking pan by spraying it with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Make Batter: In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and lemon zest until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Gently fold in the all-purpose flour and baking powder until just combined; avoid overmixing the batter to maintain a tender texture.
Pour Batter: Pour the prepared batter evenly into the greased or lined baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula for an even bake.
Bake Brownies: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool for 10 to 15 minutes.
Prepare Glaze: While the brownies are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth and pourable.
Glaze Brownies: Pour the lemon glaze evenly over the slightly cooled brownies and spread gently with a spatula to coat the surface.
Cool and Slice: Let the glazed brownies cool completely to allow the glaze to set. Once fully cooled, slice the brownies into 16 equal squares and serve.

Notes

Use fresh lemons for the best citrus flavor in both the batter and glaze.
Be careful not to overbake to keep the brownies moist and chewy.
For easier slicing, chill the brownies after glazing before cutting.
These brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
Feel free to add a pinch of salt to the batter if using unsalted butter to balance sweetness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American