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Lemon brownies recipe with fresh lemon glaze

Lemon Brownies Recipe: The Most Delicious Easy Citrus Dessert You’ll Ever Bake


  • Author: Mark Bennett
  • Total Time: ~55 minutes (Cooling + Glazing 20 minutes)

Description

These lemon brownies are soft, chewy, and bursting with bright citrus flavor. They have the texture of classic brownies but the fresh, tangy taste of lemon bars, topped with a smooth lemon glaze that makes every bite irresistible. Perfect for summer desserts, bake sales, or anytime you want a simple homemade treat that feels special.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Lemon Brownies

  • 1 cup granulated sugar

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

  • 2 large eggs, room temperature

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • ½ teaspoon baking powder

  • ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Lemon Glaze

  • 1 cup powdered sugar

  • 2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

  • ½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional)


Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

  • In a large bowl, whisk sugar, melted butter, eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.

  • Add flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir just until combined.

  • Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

  • Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

  • Let brownies cool completely in the pan.

  • In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth. Stir in zest if using.

  • Spread glaze evenly over cooled brownies. Let set, then slice and serve.

Notes

Use fresh lemons: Fresh juice and zest give brighter flavor than bottled juice.

Don’t overbake: Pull them when the center is just set for soft, chewy brownies.

Cool before glazing: Warm brownies will melt the glaze instead of setting nicely.

For extra lemon flavor: Add an extra teaspoon of zest to the batter.

Storage tip: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 22–25 minutes (Bake Time)