I was intrigued when I saw this recipe because I have never heard of lemon brownies before. The only brownies I know are the chocolate ones. Since I love lemons, I decided to try this recipe. This was such an incredibly easy dessert to make; the hard part was zesting the lemons. These bars are light, dense and very lemony. No matter how you call this wonderful treat, it was a hit with my family.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Lemon Brownies

To get the best results with your lemon brownies, make sure to use fresh lemons. The zest and juice from fresh lemons provide the most vibrant flavor, which is essential for these bars. When zesting, avoid the white pith underneath the lemon peel, as it can add bitterness. A microplane grater works wonders for zesting, giving you fine shavings that blend beautifully into the batter. Also, keep an eye on the baking time. Ovens can vary, so check your brownies a few minutes before the suggested baking time. They should be set in the middle but still slightly soft to the touch. Letting them cool completely before cutting ensures nice, clean edges. If you are looking for a bit of texture, consider adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top before serving.

Storage Instructions for Lemon Brownies

Once your lemon brownies have cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about three days. If you want to extend their life, you can refrigerate them, which will keep them good for up to a week. Just be aware that refrigeration might change the texture slightly, making them a bit denser. For longer storage, freeze the brownies. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours. This dessert is perfect for making ahead of time for parties or family gatherings.

Serving Suggestions for Lemon Brownies

Lemon brownies can be served in a variety of ways to elevate their flavor. One simple option is to dust them with powdered sugar right before serving. This adds a nice touch and balances the tartness of the lemon. For a more indulgent treat, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. The creamy texture pairs wonderfully with the zesty brownies. You can also drizzle a simple lemon glaze over the top for extra sweetness and a beautiful presentation. Just mix powdered sugar with a little lemon juice until you reach a pourable consistency. For a fun twist, consider adding fresh berries as a garnish, like blueberries or raspberries, which complement the lemon flavor nicely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, but it won’t give you the same fresh flavor as using real lemons. Fresh juice and zest provide a vibrant taste that really makes these brownies shine.

What can I substitute for the butter?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil or vegan butter are great substitutes. Just keep in mind that the flavor might change a bit, but it will still be delicious.

How do I store leftover lemon brownies?

Once they’ve cooled completely, pop them in an airtight container at room temperature for about three days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerating them will keep them fresh for up to a week.

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Making these lemon brownies ahead of time is totally doable. Just bake them, let them cool, and store them in the fridge, then serve them cold or at room temperature when you’re ready.

What can I add for extra texture?

Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can add a nice crunch, or you could sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for a sweet finish. Both options complement the lemon flavor really well.

Lemon Brownies

Liza A

Lemon brownies are a zesty twist on a classic treat, combining a chewy texture with bright citrus flavor that will leave your taste buds singing. Easy to whip up, they're a refreshing dessert you’ll crave!

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Prep Time 25

Cook Time 20

Total Time 45

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings lemon bars

Calories 180 kcal

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
3/4 cup flour
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons lemon zest
2 tablespoons lemon juice
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the tart lemon glaze:

4 tablespoons lemon juice
8 teaspoons lemon zest
1 cup icing sugar

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Grease an 8×8 inch baking dish with butter and set aside.
In a medium bowl, beat the flour, sugar, salt, and softened butter until combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice until combined. Pour into the flour mixture and beat for 2 minutes at medium speed until smooth and creamy. Pour into baking dish and bake for 20-22 minutes or until golden around the edges. Baking time may vary depending on the oven, so take a peek at 20 minutes to see how it looks like. Do not over bake or the bars will dry.
Remove from the oven and cool completely before glazing.
Sift the icing sugar and whisk with lemon zest and juice. Spread half of the glaze over the brownies with a rubber spatula and let glaze set.
Spread remaining glaze and let it set. Cut into bars and serve.
Enjoy!

Notes

Recipe source: The Girl Who Ate Everything

Nutrition

Calories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 100mgSugar: 15g

Keyword dessert recipe, easy baking, lemon brownies, sweet treats

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