Lemon Brownie Recipe
Introduction
Bright and tangy, these lemon brownies offer a delightful twist on the classic treat. With a moist, buttery base and a zesty lemon glaze, they’re perfect for anyone craving a refreshing dessert with a citrus kick.

Ingredients
- 1/2 cup salted butter (softened, 1 stick)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1/2 lemon
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Prepare an 8×8-inch pan by spraying with cooking spray or lining with parchment paper, then set aside.
- Step 2: In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and lemon zest until light and fluffy.
- Step 3: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice.
- Step 4: Add the flour and baking powder, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth it out evenly.
- Step 6: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool for 10–15 minutes.
- Step 7: While the brownies cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice, and half a lemon’s zest to make the glaze.
- Step 8: Pour the glaze evenly over the brownies and spread to coat.
- Step 9: Allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing into squares. Serve and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- For extra lemon flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon extract to the batter.
- Use a microplane for zesting to avoid bitter white pith.
- Substitute half the granulated sugar with brown sugar for a deeper sweetness.
- Add a handful of fresh blueberries into the batter for a fruity twist.
- Line the pan with parchment paper extending over the edges for easier removal.
Storage
Store the lemon brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them refrigerated for up to a week. Let refrigerated brownies come to room temperature before serving, or warm briefly in the microwave to enjoy a soft texture.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in a 1:1 ratio. Be sure the blend contains xanthan gum for best texture results.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the brownies are done. Avoid overbaking to keep them moist and tender.
PrintLemon Brownie Recipe
This Lemon Brownie recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional brownies by incorporating fresh lemon zest and juice, resulting in a bright, tangy dessert with a soft, cakey texture topped with a sweet lemon glaze.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup salted butter (1 stick), softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Lemon Glaze
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1/2 lemon
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by spraying it with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper, ensuring easy removal of the brownies after baking.
- Make batter: In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and lemon zest until the mixture is light and fluffy. This incorporates air and distributes the zest evenly.
- Add eggs and lemon juice: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate. Then add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and mix to combine.
- Add dry ingredients: Sift together the all-purpose flour and baking powder, then add to the wet ingredients. Mix gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender.
- Pour batter into pan: Transfer the batter to the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform baking.
- Bake the brownies: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This ensures the brownies are fully cooked but still moist.
- Cool slightly: Remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies cool for 10 to 15 minutes to set before glazing.
- Prepare glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth to create a bright, tangy glaze.
- Glaze brownies: Pour the glaze evenly over the warm brownies and spread it with a spatula or the back of a spoon to coat the surface thoroughly.
- Cool fully and slice: Let the glazed brownies cool completely to room temperature to allow the glaze to set, then slice into squares and serve.
Notes
- Using fresh lemon juice and zest enhances the bright citrus flavor of the brownies.
- Be careful not to overbake to maintain a soft texture.
- Allow the brownies to cool before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting off.
- The glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish; adjust lemon juice amount to taste.
- For easy removal, lining the pan with parchment paper is recommended.
Keywords: Lemon Brownies, Citrus Brownies, Lemon Dessert, Lemon Glaze Brownies, Homemade Brownies

