Description
These Lemon Brownies combine the rich, buttery texture of traditional brownies with a refreshing citrus twist, featuring tangy lemon zest and juice in both the batter and a sweet lemon glaze. Perfect as a light dessert or afternoon treat, they offer a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Batter
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 lemon, zested (about 2 Tbsp)
- 2 Tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tsp lemon extract
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 cup all purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
Lemon Glaze
- 1 cup powdered icing sugar
- 2 Tbsp lemon juice (or water)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp lemon extract
Instructions
- Zest and Juice the Lemon: Carefully zest the peel of one lemon and then squeeze out the lemon juice. Set aside for use in the batter and glaze.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9″x9″ baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the brownies.
- Cream Butter, Sugar, and Lemon Zest: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and lemon zest until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps to incorporate air for a tender texture.
- Add Eggs: Add the two large eggs and one egg yolk one at a time to the creamed mixture, mixing thoroughly after each addition to maintain a smooth batter.
- Mix in Extracts: Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon extract to infuse the batter with aromatic flavors.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and salt.
- Add Flour to Wet Mixture: Gradually add half of the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- Incorporate Remaining Flour: Add the remaining flour mixture and blend until the batter is smooth and uniform.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 22-25 minutes. The brownies should be set but still slightly moist in the center. Allow to cool in the pan for 30 minutes before removing.
- Prepare Lemon Glaze: In a small bowl, combine powdered icing sugar, lemon juice (or water), lemon zest, and lemon extract. Mix until smooth and pourable.
- Glaze and Serve: Spread the lemon glaze evenly over the cooled brownies using a spatula. Slice into squares and serve to enjoy the perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest lemon flavor.
- Room temperature butter and eggs help create a smoother batter.
- Do not overmix the batter once flour is added to keep brownies tender.
- The glaze can be thinned with water if it’s too thick for spreading.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie (approx. 2x2 inch square)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: lemon brownies, lemon dessert, citrus brownies, baked lemon treats, easy lemon brownies
