Lemon brownies are a delightful sweet treat that perfectly balances tart and sweet flavors, making them a favorite among many. With their bright yellow color and zesty lemon aroma, these brownies are not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight. They offer a refreshing twist on traditional brownies, bringing a citrusy punch that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a picnic, a family gathering, or just enjoying them at home, lemon brownies are sure to impress.
Why Make This Lemon Brownies
Lemon brownies are ideal for those who love a light and refreshing dessert. Unlike dense chocolate brownies, these lemon-infused delights are moist, chewy, and bursting with citrus flavor. The combination of lemon juice and zest gives them a unique zing that brightens up your palate. Plus, they’re simple to make, requiring just a few basic ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. With a sweet glaze that adds an extra touch of sweetness, these brownies are your go-to dessert for satisfying a sweet tooth while also indulging in a bit of zest.
How to Make Lemon Brownies
Making lemon brownies is a breeze, and you don’t have to be a professional baker to achieve great results. The process involves melting, mixing, and baking, with minimal fuss. In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a batch of delicious lemon brownies ready to be devoured.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for glaze)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, melt the butter and add the sugar, mixing well.
- Stir in the eggs and vanilla extract until combined.
- Mix in the flour and salt, followed by the lemon juice and zest.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- For the glaze, mix powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth.
- Once the brownies have cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top and let it set before cutting into squares and serving.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 square):
- Calories: 180
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 70mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 29g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 17g
- Protein: 2g
How to Serve Lemon Brownies
Serve your lemon brownies freshly cut into squares, optionally garnished with a sprinkle of lemon zest or powdered sugar for an elegant touch. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or a refreshing glass of lemonade, making them perfect for afternoon tea or summer gatherings. You can also serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an indulgent dessert that everyone will love.
How to Store Lemon Brownies
Lemon brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like them to last longer, consider refrigerating them for up to a week. For best results, place parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together. You can also freeze lemon brownies for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer bag.
Expert Tips for Perfect Lemon Brownies
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for maximum flavor; bottled juice won’t provide the same freshness.
- Be careful not to overbake the brownies. They should be set but still moist in the center.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely before adding the glaze to prevent it from melting into the brownies.
- Experiment with adding bits of white chocolate or a handful of nuts for added texture and flavor.
Delicious Variations
- Blueberry Lemon Brownies: Add a cup of fresh or frozen blueberries to the batter for a fruity twist.
- Lemon Coconut Brownies: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical flavor.
- Gluten-Free Lemon Brownies: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these brownies gluten-free without sacrificing taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I substitute the butter with oil?
Yes, you can use vegetable oil instead of butter. Use about 1/3 cup of oil for every 1/2 cup of butter. However, the texture may differ slightly; butter adds a rich flavor that oil does not provide.
2. How can I tell when the lemon brownies are done baking?
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), they are ready. Remember that they will continue to set as they cool.
3. Can I make the brownies in advance?
Absolutely! You can make lemon brownies a day ahead of time. Just store them in an airtight container and glaze them just before serving for the best flavor and presentation.
Conclusion
Lemon brownies are a delightful and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any sweet occasion. They’re simple to make, packed with flavor, and sure to bring smiles to everyone at the table. Whether you serve them at a party or keep them all to yourself (we won’t tell!), these brownies will not disappoint. So, grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a batch of sunshine made sweet! Don’t forget to share your creations and let us know how your lemon brownies turned out!
Lemon Brownies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, melt the butter and add the sugar, mixing well.
- Stir in the eggs and vanilla extract until combined.
- Mix in the flour and salt, followed by the lemon juice and zest.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- For the glaze, mix powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth.
- Once the brownies have cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top and let it set before cutting into squares and serving.