Best Lemon Brownies Recipe: Bright & Fudgy Citrus Bars

Are you looking for a delightful dessert that combines the rich, chewy texture of brownies with the refreshing zing of lemons? Look no further! This lemon brownies recipe is your ticket to a sweet and tangy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With a fudgy base and a vibrant lemon flavor, these citrus bars are sure to impress your friends and family. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love These Lemon Brownies

Lemon brownies offer the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, making them a refreshing alternative to traditional chocolate brownies. Here are just a few reasons why you’ll love this recipe:

• Bright Citrus Flavor: The zesty lemon brings a fresh burst of flavor to every bite.
• Fudgy Texture: These brownies are soft and chewy, making them incredibly satisfying.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these delicious bars ready in no time.
• Versatile Dessert: Whether you’re serving them at a picnic, a potluck, or just enjoying them at home, lemon brownies are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

To make these delightful lemon brownies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Brownies:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Zest of 2 lemons (about 2 tablespoons)
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)

For the Lemon Glaze (optional):

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 3-4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• Lemon zest for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

1. In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar. Whisk together until smooth and well combined.
2. Add in the eggs, one at a time, and mix until thoroughly incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
4. Fold in the lemon zest and fresh lemon juice. Be careful not to overmix!

Step 3: Bake

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to maintain that fudgy texture.

Step 4: Cool and Glaze

Allow the lemon brownies to cool completely in the baking dish. If desired, prepare the lemon glaze by whisking together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled brownies, and garnish with additional lemon zest.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Once the glaze has set, cut the brownies into squares or rectangles. Serve them at room temperature, and prepare for everyone to come back for seconds!

Tips for Perfect Lemon Brownies

• Use Fresh Lemons: For the best flavor, always use freshly squeezed lemon juice and freshly grated lemon zest.
• Storage: Store leftover lemon brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
• Personalize: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding white chocolate chips or nuts for added texture.

Conclusion

There you have it—the best lemon brownies recipe that provides a unique twist on the classic dessert. With their bright flavor and fudgy texture, these lemon brownies are bound to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy every zesty bite as you share this delicious treat with friends and family!

Happy baking! 🍋✨