Irresistible Lemon Brownie Recipe – Zesty & Delicious!
There’s something about the bright, zesty flavor of lemon that can instantly lift your spirits, and this Lemon Brownie Recipe does just that! If you’re searching for a sweet treat that perfectly balances tangy and sweet, look no further. These lemon brownies are not only packed with refreshing citrus goodness but also have a soft, moist texture that melts in your mouth. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon or a gathering with friends, these brownies will surely bring smiles to everyone’s faces.
This recipe is a favorite in my kitchen because it’s so easy to whip up and perfect for any occasion. From birthday parties to potlucks or simply as an afternoon snack, these lemon brownies make every moment feel special. Plus, the glaze on top adds an irresistible finishing touch!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Bright and zesty flavor: The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest ensures every bite is bursting with citrus delight.
– Simple ingredients: You likely have most of the ingredients on hand, making it easy to bake whenever the craving strikes.
– Quick prep time: With just 10 minutes of prep required, you can satisfy your sweet tooth in no time.
– Perfect for sharing: Cut them into squares and share these treats with friends or family; they’re sure to be a hit!
– Versatile dessert: Enjoy them as a simple dessert or dress them up for special occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the baking process, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this delightful Lemon Brownie Recipe. Having everything ready will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.
For the Brownies
– 1/2 cup salted butter, softened (1 stick)
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 lemon, zested
– 2 large eggs
– 1 Tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
For the Glaze
– 3/4 cup powdered sugar
– 1 1/2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– zest of 1/2 lemon
Variations
One of the best things about baking is that you can easily customize recipes to suit your taste. Here are some fun variations you might enjoy:
– Add berries: Fold in some blueberries or raspberries into the batter before baking for a fruity twist.
– Make it chocolatey: Swirl in some melted white chocolate for an indulgent treat.
– Experiment with nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to give your brownies some crunch.
– Try different citrus: Substitute lime or orange zest for a unique flavor profile.
How to Make Lemon Brownie Recipe
Now that we’ve gathered everything we need, let’s get started on creating these delicious Lemon Brownies!
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, prepare an 8×8″ pan by spraying it with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper. This step is crucial as it prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Make the Batter
In a large bowl or using a stand mixer, cream together 1/2 cup softened salted butter, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, and the zest of one lemon until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture for a lighter brownie. Next, add in the two large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Follow this with 1 Tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Finally, gently fold in 3/4 cup all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon baking powder until just combined—careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth it into an even layer. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This step is essential to ensure your brownies are baked through while still remaining moist. Once done, allow them to cool in the pan for about 10–15 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Glaze
While your brownies are cooling (and smelling incredible), prepare the glaze by whisking together 3/4 cup powdered sugar, 1 1/2 Tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, and the zest of half a lemon. Once you’ve achieved a smooth consistency, pour it over your cooled brownies and spread evenly—this adds a lovely sweetness that complements the tanginess beautifully!
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Let your glazed brownies cool completely before slicing them into squares—this helps ensure clean cuts. You should be able to get about 16 delightful squares from this recipe!
And there you have it—a scrumptious Lemon Brownie Recipe that’s sure to brighten any day! Enjoy every bite!
Pro Tips for Making Lemon Brownie Recipe
Making lemon brownies is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your baking game! Here are some helpful hints to ensure your lemon brownies turn out perfectly every time.
– Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemons provide the best flavor. Look for bright, firm lemons to maximize zest and juice output.
– Don’t overmix the batter: Once you add the flour and baking powder, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies rather than a soft, moist texture.
– Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your brownies during the last few minutes of baking. A toothpick should come out clean or with only a few moist crumbs.
– Cool completely before glazing: Allowing your brownies to cool fully ensures that the glaze sets nicely on top without sliding off.
– Experiment with flavors: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a hint of vanilla extract or almond extract for an extra layer of flavor.
How to Serve Lemon Brownie Recipe
Serving lemon brownies can be as fun as making them! Whether it’s for a casual gathering or a festive occasion, presenting them beautifully adds to their appeal.
Garnishes
– Dust with powdered sugar: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds elegance and a touch of sweetness.
– Fresh mint leaves: A couple of fresh mint leaves placed alongside the brownies provide color and freshness.
Side Dishes
– Whipped coconut cream: This dairy-free option complements the tanginess of lemon brownies beautifully.
– Fresh berries: Serve with strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing contrast in flavors.
– Ice cream: A scoop of vanilla or lemon sorbet makes for a delightful pairing with the warm brownies.
Make Ahead and Storage
These lemon brownies are perfect for meal prep! You can make them in advance and store them properly to enjoy later.
Storing Leftovers
– Store at room temperature: Place leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
– Refrigerate for longer storage: If you need them to last longer, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to a week.
Freezing
– Wrap individually: To freeze, wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
– Thaw before serving: When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Reheating
– Microwave method: For warm brownies, pop one in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
– Oven method: Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm the brownies in there for about 5 minutes.
FAQs
If you’re new to baking or just want some extra clarification on this recipe, here are some frequently asked questions:
Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?
You can absolutely use unsalted butter if that’s what you have on hand. Just add a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.
Can I substitute gluten-free flour?
Yes! For gluten-free lemon brownies, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.
How do I know when my brownies are done?
Check your brownies around the 20-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making these delicious lemon brownies as much as I do! They’re perfect for any occasion and sure to impress friends and family alike. So go ahead and give this recipe a try – I can’t wait for you to taste that sweet-tangy goodness!
Lemon Brownie Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8x8" pan by spraying it with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and lemon zest until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then add the fresh lemon juice. Gently fold in the flour and baking powder until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth it into an even layer. Bake for about 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool in the pan for about 10–15 minutes.
- Prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. Pour it over the cooled brownies and spread evenly.
- Let the glazed brownies cool completely before slicing them into squares.
