Lemon Brownies are a bright and zesty twist on the classic brownie, offering a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture with an irresistible citrus flavor. Topped with a tangy lemon glaze, these bars are the perfect sunny treat for springtime gatherings, brunches, or any occasion when you crave something refreshingly sweet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These lemon brownies deliver the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, with a rich, buttery texture that stays wonderfully moist. They are easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients and make a beautiful, crowd-pleasing dessert that looks as good as it tastes. The lemon glaze adds an extra burst of citrus that takes them over the top.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Lemon Brownies:

1 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
Zest of 2 lemons
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Lemon Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the lemon zest and fresh lemon juice.
Gently fold in the flour and salt until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While the brownies are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
After removing the brownies from the oven, allow them to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes.
Spread the lemon glaze evenly over the top of the slightly cooled brownies.
Let the glaze set for an additional 10–15 minutes before slicing into squares.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 16 squares
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Baking Time: 30 minutes
Cooling and Glazing Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Calories: Approximately 310 kcal per square

Variations

Extra Tangy: Add an additional tablespoon of lemon zest to the batter for an even stronger citrus flavor.
Lemon-Lime: Replace half of the lemon juice and zest with lime for a fun twist.
Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
Berry Addition: Gently fold in fresh blueberries or raspberries before baking for a fruity burst.
Frosted Version: Instead of a glaze, top with a thick lemon cream cheese frosting.

Storage/Reheating

Store the lemon brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days.
You can also freeze the brownies by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

How do I know when the lemon brownies are done baking?

The edges should be golden and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and use two 9×13-inch pans or one large sheet pan.

Do these taste more like cake or brownies?

They have a dense, moist, brownie-like texture, but without chocolate.

Can I make the glaze thicker?

Add more powdered sugar if you prefer a thicker glaze.

Can I skip the glaze?

Yes, but the glaze enhances the lemon flavor and adds sweetness.

How do I get clean cuts when slicing?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat slices.

Can I add poppy seeds to the batter?

Yes, adding a tablespoon of poppy seeds can create a fun variation similar to lemon poppy seed cake.

Can I use a different pan size?

If using a different size, adjust the baking time accordingly; thinner bars will bake faster.

How should I serve lemon brownies?

They are wonderful served chilled or at room temperature, perfect with a cup of tea or coffee.

Conclusion

Lemon Brownies are a delightful and refreshing dessert that combines the richness of a brownie with the vibrant brightness of lemon. Their soft texture, zesty flavor, and sweet glaze make them an unforgettable treat that is simple to prepare yet impressive to serve. Whether for a spring brunch, a summer picnic, or a year-round indulgence, these lemon brownies are sure to bring a little sunshine to your table.

Lemon Brownies

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Author: Olivia
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 16 squares
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Lemon Brownies are a bright, zesty twist on the classic dessert! Soft, buttery bars packed with fresh citrus flavor and topped with a tangy lemon glaze, they’re the perfect sunny treat for spring or any time of year.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in lemon zest and lemon juice until combined.
Gently fold in flour and salt just until no streaks of flour remain—do not overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, until edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While brownies bake, prepare the glaze by whisking powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
Let brownies cool in the pan for about 15 minutes after baking.
Spread the lemon glaze evenly over the slightly warm brownies.

Notes

For an extra burst of flavor, add a few drops of lemon extract to the batter.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for a firmer texture.

Perfect for brunch, baby showers, or tea parties!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American