Best Lemon Brownies Recipe

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Savor the bright, zesty goodness of these fudgy lemon brownies, a delightful twist on traditional dessert bars. With their perfect balance of citrus and sweetness, these lemon brownies are incredibly moist and bursting with flavor. Ideal for spring gatherings or as a refreshing treat any time of year, these citrus bars are sure to impress your family and friends.

Erin Wallace

Created by

Erin Wallace

Last updated on 2025-12-02T12:01:28.339Z

These lemon brownies are a delightful twist on the classic brownie, providing a refreshing burst of citrus with every bite. The fudgy texture and bright flavor make them a perfect dessert for any occasion.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These lemon brownies are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed on various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a spring picnic, celebrating a birthday, or simply looking for a sweet treat to accompany your afternoon tea, these fudgy delights fit the bill perfectly. Their refreshing lemon flavor and rich texture make them a crowd favorite, appealing to both lemon lovers and those who prefer a sweeter dessert.

Additionally, they make for a wonderful dessert option at brunches or family gatherings. Their vibrant yellow hue adds a cheerful touch to any dessert table, providing a visual and flavorful contrast to heavier treats.

A Unique Twist on a Classic

While traditional brownies are typically rich and chocolatey, these lemon brownies offer a refreshing departure from the ordinary. The combination of tangy lemon juice and zest elevates these treats, creating a balance of sweetness and citrus that is both surprising and delightful. It’s this unique flavor profile that keeps everyone coming back for more.

By blending the fudgy texture of brownies with the brightness of lemon, this recipe not only satisfies dessert cravings but also introduces a new favorite. It presents an innovative twist that’s sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.

Easy to Make and Customize

One of the best aspects of this lemon brownie recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch in no time. This makes it a fantastic option for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike. Plus, you can easily adjust the sweetness by modifying the sugar levels to suit your taste.

Furthermore, feel free to get creative! You can add a hint of poppy seeds for added texture or incorporate white chocolate chips for a complementary flavor. The possibilities are endless, and the outcome is always delightful.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start!

For the Lemon Brownies

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Lemon Glaze

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Total yield: 16 brownies.

Instructions

Get ready to bake these delicious lemon brownies!

Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Make the Batter

In a large bowl, mix melted butter and sugar until combined. Add eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice, stir until smooth. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt; then combine with wet ingredients.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Prepare the Glaze

While the brownies are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small bowl until smooth.

Finish and Serve

Once the brownies are cool, drizzle the glaze on top, cut into squares, and serve!

Enjoy your delicious lemon brownies!

Storage Tips

To keep your lemon brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to a week. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature before serving to enhance the flavor and texture.

For long-term storage, you can freeze individual squares. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy this delightful treat whenever the craving strikes.

Serving Suggestions

These lemon brownies can be enjoyed plain for a simple dessert or dressed up for an extra special occasion. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to create an indulgent treat. Garnishing with fresh berries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can also elevate their presentation.

For an added zesty kick, try pairing your brownies with a lemon-flavored tea or a chilled glass of sparkling lemonade. This refreshing combination makes for a perfect dessert that is light yet satisfying.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to measure flour for this recipe? When measuring flour, it's crucial to spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Avoid scooping directly from the container, as this can lead to packing and result in too much flour, affecting the texture of your brownies.

Can I substitute the eggs in this recipe? Yes, you can use flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute for eggs if you prefer a vegan option. For each egg, mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water and let it sit until it thickens, or use a quarter cup of unsweetened applesauce.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bottled lemon juice?

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

→ How should I store these brownies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Best Lemon Brownies Recipe

Savor the bright, zesty goodness of these fudgy lemon brownies, a delightful twist on traditional dessert bars. With their perfect balance of citrus and sweetness, these lemon brownies are incredibly moist and bursting with flavor. Ideal for spring gatherings or as a refreshing treat any time of year, these citrus bars are sure to impress your family and friends.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time40 minutes

Created by: Erin Wallace

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: easy

Final Quantity: 16 brownies

What You'll Need

For the Lemon Brownies

  1. 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
  2. 2 cups granulated sugar
  3. 4 large eggs
  4. 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  5. 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
  6. 2 cups all-purpose flour
  7. 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  8. 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Lemon Glaze

  1. 1 cup powdered sugar
  2. 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  3. 1 teaspoon lemon zest

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Step 02

In a large bowl, mix melted butter and sugar until combined. Add eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice, stir until smooth. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt; then combine with wet ingredients.

Step 03

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 04

While the brownies are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small bowl until smooth.

Step 05

Once the brownies are cool, drizzle the glaze on top, cut into squares, and serve!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 220
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Sugars: 20g