Lemon brownies, often called lemonies, are a fun, citrusy twist on classic brownies. They’re soft, chewy, and packed with fresh lemon flavor from both juice and zest, then finished with a tangy glaze that balances the sweetness perfectly.
Baked in a single pan and sliced into easy-to-share bars, these lemonies are simple to make and great for everything from casual snacking to bringing along to gatherings. They’re bright, fresh, and just the right change from chocolate-heavy desserts.
Ingredients
For the brownies:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Making the Lemon Brownies
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan.
- In a bowl, mix the melted butter and sugar until well combined.
- Add the eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest, whisking until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the brownies cool, mix the powdered sugar and lemon juice to form the glaze.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled brownies, then slice and serve.
Serving Ideas
Lemon brownies are best served at room temperature. They’re great on their own, paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or served alongside tea or coffee. Cutting them into small squares makes them easy to share.
Storage
Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Wrap well before freezing to keep them fresh.
Baking Tips
- Measure ingredients carefully for consistent results.
- Fresh lemons give the best flavor for both juice and zest.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the texture soft and tender.
- Check doneness near the end of baking with a toothpick.
Easy Variations
White chocolate chips or chopped nuts can be added to the batter for extra texture. For a different citrus twist, replace part of the lemon juice with lime juice while keeping the rest of the recipe the same.
Common Questions
Can a different type of flour be used?
Yes. Whole wheat or gluten-free flour can be used, though the texture may change slightly.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they’re ready.
Can the glaze be made ahead of time?
Yes. The glaze can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Stir well before using.
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Lemon Brownies
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft, chewy lemon brownies with a tangy glaze, perfect for sharing and casual snacking.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan.
- In a bowl, mix the melted butter and sugar until well combined.
- Add the eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest, whisking until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the brownies cool, mix the powdered sugar and lemon juice to form the glaze.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled brownies, then slice and serve.
Notes
Best served at room temperature. Great on their own or with ice cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 35mg