These Lemon Brownies with Lemon Glaze are the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, with a bright citrus flavor that shines through. Unlike traditional chocolate brownies, these lemon brownies are soft, chewy, and bursting with fresh lemon zest and juice. Topped with a zesty lemon glaze, they make a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether for a spring gathering or just to satisfy a citrus craving, these lemon brownies are sure to impress!
Ingredients
For the Lemon Brownies:
- All-Purpose Flour (1 cup)
- Granulated Sugar (3/4 cup)
- Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup, softened)
- Eggs (2 large)
- Lemon Zest (1 tablespoon)
- Lemon Juice (2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed)
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon)
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon)
- Baking Powder (1/2 teaspoon)
For the Lemon Glaze:
- Powdered Sugar (1 cup)
- Lemon Juice (2-3 tablespoons, freshly squeezed)
- Lemon Zest (1 teaspoon, optional for extra flavor)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Brownies
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Pour into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The top should be lightly golden.
- Cool the Brownies: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before adding the glaze.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Glaze
- Mix the Glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Add more lemon juice as needed to reach your desired consistency. The glaze should be smooth and pourable but not too thin.
- Add Zest (Optional): Stir in the lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Step 3: Glaze the Brownies
- Pour the Glaze: Once the brownies are completely cool, pour the lemon glaze over the top, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Set the Glaze: Allow the glaze to set for 15-20 minutes before slicing the brownies.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
- Slice into Squares: Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the brownies out of the pan and slice them into squares.
- Serve and Enjoy: These lemon brownies are delicious on their own or served with a dollop of whipped cream!
Duration Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 20-25 minutes
- Cooling and Glazing Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 12 brownies)
- Calories: 220
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 31g
- Sugars: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
FAQs
1. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the best flavor, but if you don’t have fresh lemons, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch.
2. How do I store the brownies?
Store the lemon brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
3. Can I freeze the brownies?
Yes! You can freeze the brownies (without the glaze) for up to 2 months. Once thawed, add the glaze before serving.
4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is designed for baking. Be sure to check all other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free as well.
5. Can I add other flavors?
You can add a touch of almond extract for a different flavor twist or mix in white chocolate chips for extra sweetness.
6. How do I prevent the glaze from being too runny?
Start with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice when making the glaze, and add more only if needed. If the glaze becomes too thin, add a little more powdered sugar to thicken it.
7. Can I make a double batch?
Yes! Simply double the recipe and bake it in a 9×13-inch pan. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on it.
8. Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar slightly, but keep in mind that this will affect the sweetness and texture of both the brownies and the glaze.
Conclusion
These Lemon Brownies with Lemon Glaze are a refreshing and tangy twist on traditional brownies, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and zesty lemon flavor. The soft, chewy texture paired with the sweet-tart glaze makes them a delightful dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a springtime gathering or enjoying them as a simple treat, these lemon brownies are sure to please!