Name: Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ cups all-purpose flour; 1½ cups granulated sugar; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 4 large eggs (room temperature); 2 tablespoons lemon zest (from 2-3 lemons); ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that’s bursting with bright, tangy flavor yet remains decadently soft and moist, this Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. These lemon brownies offer the perfect balance of zesty lemon sunshine and rich buttery goodness, all wrapped up in a luscious glaze that makes every bite irresistible. Whether you’re serving them at a casual get-together or just treating yourself to something special, this recipe is uncomplicated but impressive, promising a delightful citrus twist on classic brownies.

Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, everyday ingredients is the secret to making this Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe truly shine. Each component plays an important role to create that perfect texture, bright flavor, and inviting color that makes these brownies unforgettable.

All-purpose flour 1½ cups: Provides structure while keeping the brownies soft and cakey.
Granulated sugar 1½ cups: Sweetens and helps to create a tender crumb.
Salt ½ teaspoon: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness perfectly.
Unsalted butter 1 cup, softened: Adds richness and moisture for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Large eggs (4, room temperature): Bind everything together and help with rise.
Lemon zest 2 tablespoons (from 2-3 lemons): Packs vibrant citrus aroma and bright flavor.
Fresh lemon juice ⅓ cup: Brings tangy freshness that makes the brownies pop.
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon: Adds warmth and depth, balancing the lemon’s tartness.
Powdered sugar 1 cup: Used for a silky smooth glaze that sweetens without weighing down the brownies.
Additional fresh lemon juice 2-3 tablespoons: Mixed into the glaze for extra zing.
Lemon zest 1 tablespoon: Sprinkled on top of the glaze for a zingy, fresh finish.

How to Make Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Preparation

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing your baking pan. Line a 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper, then lightly grease the parchment to ensure your lemon brownies come out cleanly, keeping edges intact and making removal effortless.

Step 2: Making the Batter

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. This dry mix will give balance to your brownies’ texture. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together for 3 to 4 minutes until light and fluffy — this step is key to a tender, airy crumb. Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to build a smooth, cohesive batter that’s ready to hold all the delicious lemon flavors.

Step 3: Adding the Lemon Love

Stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract until evenly combined. The aromas that burst forth at this step are pure magic, making your kitchen smell like citrus bliss. Gently fold in the flour mixture, just until incorporated, to avoid overmixing which could toughen your brownies.

Step 4: Baking to Perfection

Pour the luscious batter into your prepared pan and smooth out the top. Pop it into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean but with a few moist crumbs attached. This careful timing ensures a fudgy yet cakey texture perfect for these lemon brownies.

Step 5: Cooling and Glazing

Let the brownies cool completely in the pan, which helps the texture set and makes glazing simpler. For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice until silky smooth. Stir in 1 tablespoon of lemon zest for that extra citrus burst. Pour the glaze evenly over the cooled brownies and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to set. The glossy, tangy glaze is what truly makes this Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe sing!

How to Serve Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing your lemon brownies is an opportunity to make them extra special. A light dusting of powdered sugar over the glaze creates a pretty contrast, or you can sprinkle a few fresh lemon zest curls on top. For a fresh twist, add thin slices of candied lemon or even a few edible flowers to brighten the presentation and delight your guests’ eyes as much as their taste buds.

Side Dishes

Serve these lemon brownies alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the tangy sweetness. A cup of hot tea or freshly brewed coffee pairs beautifully, too, making this treat perfect for afternoon tea or a cozy dessert moment.

Creative Ways to Present

For a modern touch, cut the lemon brownies into small squares or even fun shapes using cookie cutters. Stack them on a pretty platter or arrange on individual dessert plates with a sprig of mint. You can even layer them in a glass jar with lemon curd and whipped cream for a playful lemon brownie parfait that’s both stunning and delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep leftover lemon brownies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To maintain their moist texture, place a slice of bread in the container, which helps absorb excess moisture and keeps the brownies soft and flavorful.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these lemony delights later, freeze the brownies after the glaze has set. Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months, and thawing at room temperature will bring them back to their perfect, luscious form.

Reheating

Although these brownies are delightful chilled or at room temperature, if you prefer them warm, gently reheat individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This brings out the buttery richness and lemon fragrance anew, making each bite cozy and comforting.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

While fresh lemon juice offers the brightest, most vibrant flavor for this Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch. Just be sure to use pure lemon juice without added preservatives to maintain the best taste.

What if I don’t have parchment paper?

If parchment paper isn’t available, you can grease your baking pan generously with butter and then lightly dust it with flour. This helps prevent sticking and ensures that your lemon brownies come out cleanly.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup-for-cup. This maintains the texture without compromising on taste, keeping the lemon brownies just as delicious.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

Bake the lemon brownies until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. Avoid overbaking to keep them tender and not dry.

Can I add other flavors or mix-ins?

Definitely! While this Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe shines beautifully on its own, feel free to add a handful of fresh blueberries, poppy seeds, or white chocolate chips to the batter for a fun twist that complements the lemon flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe is a wonderful way to bring a burst of sunshine to your baking routine. Its effortless preparation coupled with fresh, bright flavors makes it a standout treat that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to try it. I can’t wait for you to bake a batch and see how the tangy glaze and tender crumb come together for pure lemony bliss. Happy baking!

Easy Lemon Brownies Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 16 reviews

Author: Rafael
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 12–16 brownies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Delight in these Easy Lemon Brownies that combine the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies with a bright, zesty lemon flavor. Perfect for a refreshing twist on a traditional treat, these lemon-infused brownies feature a tangy lemon glaze that adds a sweet and citrusy finish. Ideal for summer gatherings or as a light, flavorful dessert year-round.

Instructions

Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the parchment to prevent sticking.
Make Batter: In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using a mixer for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.
Add Eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the butter and sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter.
Flavor the Batter: Stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract to infuse a citrus flavor throughout the batter.
Combine Ingredients: Gently fold the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined, taking care not to overmix to preserve the brownie texture.
Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool: Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before glazing.
Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice until smooth. Stir in 1 tablespoon of lemon zest for extra flavor.
Glaze Brownies: Pour the glaze over the cooled brownies, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Let the glaze set for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

For a stronger lemon flavor, increase the lemon zest or add a teaspoon of lemon extract.
Room temperature eggs ensure better mixing and a smoother batter.
Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright citrus notes; bottled lemon juice may change the flavor.
Make sure the brownies are completely cool before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting off.
Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
To make gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend of equal measure.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American