Lemon Brownies Recipe

This lemon brownies recipe is like little squares of sunshine with a soft and cakey texture. The lemony zing from the zest and juice gives them a refreshing taste - they are like a mix between a blondie and a lemon bar! 

Baking the lemon brownies for just 15 minutes is a breeze, and the glaze on top adds a sweet and tangy finish. These treats are like a quick ticket to dessert happiness.

Jump to:

• Ingredient Notes
• How To Make This Lemon Brownies Recipe
• Recipe Variations
• Storing and Freezing
• Recipe Tips
• Lemon Brownies Recipe

These lemon brownies are so easy to make. You only need simple ingredients – butter, sugar, eggs, flour, baking powder, lemon juice, and zest. The result is soft, cakey squares that are like a lovechild of a blondie and a lemon bar. I swear, they vanish quicker than I can whip them up.

That glaze on top is the magic touch, giving you sweet and tangy flavors in every bite. Plus, they only need 15 minutes in the oven – that's practically no time at all. 

They're fantastic on their own, but if you want to up the game, a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side is a game-changer.

Pro tip: make a batch ahead and freeze them – they thaw out like a dream. It's saved me on last-minute dessert emergencies more times than I can count.

Ingredient Notes

See the printable recipe card below for all ingredients, specific measurements, and complete instructions.

• Butter: Adds richness and a smooth texture to the brownies.
• Sugar: Sweetens the lemon brownies.
• Eggs: Provides structure and moisture, holding everything together.
• Lemon Zest: Infuses a burst of citrus flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Adds the lemon flavor, balancing sweetness with tanginess.
• Flour: Gives the brownies their structure and body.
• Baking Powder: Adds a bit of lift, making the brownies light and fluffy.
• The simple glaze is made with powdered sugar and lemon juice for the ultimate finish to the lemon brownies.

How To Make This Lemon Brownies Recipe

Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Melt the butter until it's liquid but not too hot. 

In a bowl, whisk the eggs. Add the sugar and whisk until combined. Then, add lemon zest, lemon juice, and the cooled melted butter. Stir until well combined.

Add flour and baking powder to the mix. Whisk until everything is combined but don't overdo it or it will make the lemon brownies dense. 

Pour the batter into a parchment-lined 8x8 baking pan. Bake in the middle of the oven for around 15 minutes until the edges are set and a toothpick in the center comes out clean.

While your lemon brownies are cooling, mix powdered sugar and lemon juice for the glaze. Drizzle it over the cooled brownies. You can let it crust for a bit or cut it into squares immediately if you just can’t wait to dig in.

Recipe Variations

• Add berries. Toss in a handful of fresh or frozen blueberries or raspberries into the batter for a fruity twist.
• Add nuts. Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch in every bite.
• Toss in some poppyseeds. Add a tablespoon of poppy seeds for a subtle, nutty flavor and a bit of texture.
• Add white chocolate. Mix in some white chocolate chips for a sweet and creamy addition.

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Storing and Freezing

Store: To store leftover lemon brownies, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. 

Freeze: Freeze before adding the glaze. Allow them to cool, then wrap the individual brownie squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Frozen brownies will stay good in the freezer for about two months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature.

Recipe Tips

• Zest the lemon before juicing. It's easier to zest a whole lemon than a squeezed one.
• When adding flour, mix until just combined. Overmixing can affect the texture of your brownies.
• Line your baking pan with parchment paper. It makes it easier to lift the brownies out and prevents sticking.
• Make sure the brownies are completely cool before adding the glaze. This prevents it from melting and becoming too thin.
• Adjust the powdered sugar and lemon juice ratio for the glaze to achieve your preferred thickness.

Need more lemon dessert recipes? Here are a few of our favorites.

• Lemon Pound Cake
• Lemon Ricotta Cookies
• Lemon Meringue Poke Cake
• No Churn Lemon Shortbread Ice Cream

You'll love this lemon brownies recipe because they're like sunshine in a square – the perfect mix of sweet and tangy with a soft, cakey texture. They're easy to make, and that lemon flavor will have you reaching for seconds every time!