Best Lemon Brownies Recipe | Bright & Fudgy Citrus Bars
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Experience the perfect balance of sweet and tart with these delightful lemon brownies. These fudgy citrus bars are packed with zesty flavor, making them an ideal treat for dessert lovers. Easy to make and irresistibly tasty, these lemon brownies will brighten up any occasion and satisfy your sweet tooth like never before.
These lemon brownies are a delightful twist on traditional brownies, balancing the rich fudginess with the bright, tangy taste of fresh lemons.
A Delectable Treat for Any Occasion
Lemon brownies are more than just a dessert; they are a delightful choice for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a birthday party, or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, these fudgy treats add a bright, refreshing twist. Their eye-catching yellow color and zesty aroma are sure to impress your guests, making them a standout addition to your dessert table.
These brownies marry the best of both worlds: the fudgy texture of traditional brownies and the refreshing zing of lemon. This unique combination not only tantalizes your taste buds but also makes for a light and satisfying finish to any meal. Love at first bite is guaranteed!
Easy to Make, Impossible to Resist
One of the best things about this lemon brownies recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps, you can whip up a batch in no time. Even novice bakers can achieve bakery-quality results, which is why this recipe quickly becomes a favorite.
The brownies themselves are fudgy and moist, while the tangy lemon glaze adds a pop of citrus that elevates the experience. Quick prep and bake times mean you’ll have these delicious bars ready in under an hour. Perfect for a last-minute dessert idea!
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Once you've baked and glazed your lemon brownies, it's essential to store them properly to maintain their deliciousness. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage; just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn.
When serving, consider garnishing with additional lemon zest or even a dollop of whipped cream for a touch of elegance. These brownies pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them an ideal snack for an afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients
For the Brownies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- Zest of 2 lemons
For the Lemon Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
Make sure to use fresh lemons for the best flavor!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the melted butter and sugar together until well combined. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth.
Add Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Then, stir in the lemon juice and zest.
Bake the Brownies
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Make the Glaze
While the brownies are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest in a small bowl until smooth.
Glaze and Serve
Once the brownies are done baking, let them cool for about 10 minutes. Drizzle the lemon glaze over the brownies and let cool completely before cutting into squares.
Enjoy your delicious lemon brownies!
Exploring Flavor Variations
While the classic lemon brownie is divine on its own, feel free to explore creative variations! Add fresh blueberries or raspberries to the brownie batter for a fruity twist. You could also incorporate white chocolate chips for a hint of sweetness that beautifully complements the tartness of the lemon.
For an even more vibrant flavor, consider swapping some of the lemon juice for lime juice. This twist will give your brownies a unique citrus flair that’s sure to delight your taste buds and surprise your friends.
Why Lemon is Good for You
Squeezing fresh lemon juice not only enhances the flavor but also brings several health benefits. Lemons are a great source of vitamin C, which can boost your immune system and promote healthy skin. They are also rich in antioxidants, making them a fantastic addition to your diet, even in desserts.
Moreover, the citrus scent of lemon can uplift your mood and enhance your mental clarity. So, while indulging in these brownies, you're also treating yourself to some well-deserved self-care. It's a delicious win-win!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use bottled lemon juice?
While fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch.
→ How should I store the brownies?
Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for a week.
Best Lemon Brownies Recipe | Bright & Fudgy Citrus Bars
Experience the perfect balance of sweet and tart with these delightful lemon brownies. These fudgy citrus bars are packed with zesty flavor, making them an ideal treat for dessert lovers. Easy to make and irresistibly tasty, these lemon brownies will brighten up any occasion and satisfy your sweet tooth like never before.
Created by: Aubrey Whitman
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: easy
Final Quantity: 16 brownies
What You'll Need
For the Brownies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- Zest of 2 lemons
For the Lemon Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, mix the melted butter and sugar together until well combined. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth.
In another bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Then, stir in the lemon juice and zest.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
While the brownies are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest in a small bowl until smooth.
Once the brownies are done baking, let them cool for about 10 minutes. Drizzle the lemon glaze over the brownies and let cool completely before cutting into squares.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Sugar: 22g
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 25g