Ingredients
For the Lemon Brownies
- ½ cup unsalted butter (8 tablespoons or 1 stick)
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest (zest of about 3 lemons)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup brown sugar (or granulated sugar)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon lemon extract (optional)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (juice of about ½ – 1 lemon)
For The Glaze
- 1 cup confectioner’s sugar (powdered sugar)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract or lemon extract
- Lemon zest and lemon slices for garnishing (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the brownies.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later incorporation into the batter.
- Melt Butter and Infuse Lemon Zest: In a medium saucepan over low heat, add the unsalted butter and lemon zest. Let the butter melt slowly to infuse it with the fresh lemon flavor, then remove the pan from heat.
- Combine Sugars and Butter: Immediately whisk the brown sugar and granulated sugar into the melted butter off the heat. The mixture will be grainy at this stage, which is normal, as it ensures a lovely texture in the final product.
- Add Eggs and Extracts: Whisk in the room-temperature eggs one at a time until fully combined. Then add the vanilla extract, lemon extract if using, and the fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavor.
- Fold in Dry Ingredients: Gently fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined to avoid overmixing, which helps maintain the brownies’ tender texture.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Then, cool the brownies on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes.
- Prepare the Glaze: While the brownies cool slightly, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla or lemon extract until smooth. The glaze should be thick but still pourable.
- Glaze the Brownies: When the brownies are just warm to the touch and close to room temperature, pour the glaze over the top and spread it evenly for full coverage.
- Chill and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely to room temperature, then refrigerate them until the glaze has set and the brownies are firm, about 1 hour. Slice into approximately 12 squares and enjoy cold or at room temperature for a chewy, citrusy treat.
Notes
- For extra lemon flavor, use fresh lemon zest and juice rather than bottled lemon juice.
- The glaze consistency is important; if too thick, add a small amount of lemon juice, if too runny, add more confectioners’ sugar.
- These brownies are best stored refrigerated due to the lemon glaze but can be served cold or at room temperature.
- Allow eggs to come to room temperature before mixing for better incorporation and texture.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with a vegan butter alternative, but expect a slight change in flavor.
- You can garnish the brownies with extra lemon zest or thin lemon slices for a decorative touch.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American