Name: Easy Lemon Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1.75 cups All-purpose flour; 1.25 cups Granulated sugar; 0.25 cups Cornstarch; 0.5 teaspoons Salt; 1 cups Melted butter; 4 large Eggs; 3 tablespoons Lemon zest (from 4-5 lemons); 3 tablespoons Lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Lemon extract; 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract; 2 cups Powdered sugar; 3 tablespoons Lemon juice

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There’s something incredibly refreshing about these Easy Lemon Brownies. I remember the first time I made them; it was a sunny afternoon, and the aroma of lemon filled my kitchen, hinting at the delightful treat that was about to emerge. I was hosting a small gathering, and I wanted something sweet yet zesty to complement the warm weather. The moment my guests took their first bite, their eyes lit up with joy, and I knew I had struck gold. There’s a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness in every bite, and the fudgy texture makes them feel just like brownies! These are not just any brownies; they’re laden with the sunny brightness of fresh lemons, making them a vibrant addition to any dessert table.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
180 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
7 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Whisk, Mixing Bowl

Why This Easy Lemon Brownies Hits Different

Perfect Balance of Flavors

One of the things I love most about these Easy Lemon Brownies is the perfect balance of flavors. The sweetness from the granulated sugar complements the tartness of the lemon, creating a harmonious blend that dances on your taste buds. You can’t help but smile with each bite!

Texture that Delights

The texture is another standout feature. They’re wonderfully fudgy and moist, which is precisely what you want in a brownie. The addition of cornstarch helps to achieve that delightful chewiness, making them irresistible and hard to stop at just one piece.

Versatile and Adaptable

These brownies are incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving them at a summer picnic, a birthday party, or just a simple weeknight dessert, they fit right in. You can even dress them up with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of extra lemon glaze for that extra flair.

Easy to Make

Don’t worry if you’re not an experienced baker; these brownies are easy to whip up! With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have these beauties baking away in no time. I’ve had friends who were novice bakers successfully make them on their first try!

Perfect for Sharing

These brownies are a hit at gatherings. Everyone loves a good dessert, and these are perfect for sharing. The recipe yields a generous batch, so they’re ideal for potlucks, bake sales, or simply to enjoy with family. Trust me; they’ll disappear faster than you can say “lemon brownie!”

Seasonal Delight

Lastly, they’re especially great for springtime when fresh lemons are in season. The bright, citrusy flavor brings a bit of sunshine to even the cloudiest of days. I often find myself making them more often during the spring just to enjoy that fresh lemon flavor!

Shopping List for Easy Lemon Brownies

When making the Easy Lemon Brownies, each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture. The simplicity of the ingredients showcases the bright flavors of lemon and the comforting texture of a brownie. Key players include all-purpose flour, which provides the structure, and butter, which adds richness. The combination of granulated sugar and powdered sugar ensures a sweet yet tangy experience that’s absolutely delightful.

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: The base of the brownies, providing structure and a soft bite.
1 ¼ cups granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that beautiful crust.
¼ cup cornstarch: Gives the brownies a chewy texture and helps maintain moisture.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness.
1 cup melted butter: Adds richness and moisture, creating the fudgy texture.
4 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together while contributing to the overall texture.
3 tablespoons lemon zest (from 4-5 lemons): Infuses the brownies with a vibrant, fresh lemon flavor.
3 tablespoons lemon juice: Adds a tangy brightness that complements the sweetness.
1 teaspoon lemon extract: Intensifies the lemon flavor, making it truly stand out.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and warmth to the flavor profile.
2 cups powdered sugar: Perfect for the glaze that finishes off these brownies beautifully.
3 tablespoons lemon juice (for glaze): Ensures the glaze is smooth and tangy, perfectly complementing the brownies.

Recipe Steps for Easy Lemon Brownies

Let’s get baking! Making these Easy Lemon Brownies is a simple yet rewarding process that fills your kitchen with the aroma of fresh lemons. Follow these steps to create a batch of fudgy, tangy treats that are sure to impress!

First, preheat your oven to 350°F. This is essential for achieving that perfect brownie texture. While the oven warms up, grab a 9 x 13 inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper. This will make removing the brownies a breeze once they’re baked.
Next, take a large mixing bowl and combine 1 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ¼ cups of granulated sugar, ¼ cup of cornstarch, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well mixed. This ensures an even distribution of flavors.
Now, it’s time to add the wet ingredients. In the same bowl, whisk in 1 cup of melted butter followed by 4 large eggs. Mix vigorously until the batter is smooth and glossy.
For that zesty flavor, add in 3 tablespoons of lemon zest, 3 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of lemon extract, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir well until everything is fully incorporated. The mixture should be very smooth at this stage.
Transfer the lemon brownie batter into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly, smoothing the top. It’s crucial to get an even layer for uniform baking.
Pop the pan into the oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’ll want to pull them out when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. Remember, you don’t want to overbake them as their fudgy texture is key!
Once baked, take the brownies out of the oven and allow them to cool in the pan. This cooling period is important for the brownies to set properly.
While they cool, prepare the glaze. In a clean bowl, whisk together 2 cups of powdered sugar and the additional 3 tablespoons of lemon juice until the mixture is smooth. This glaze will add a lovely tangy finish to the brownies.
Once the brownies are fully cooled, lift them out of the pan using the edges of the parchment paper. Place them on a cutting board and cut into squares. Drizzle the glaze over the top and let it set at room temperature.
Finally, serve your Easy Lemon Brownies to friends and family. Watch as they enjoy the bright flavors and fudgy goodness!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooling Time Matters: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting to ensure they hold together well.
Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh lemons for zest and juice makes a significant difference in flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the brownies.
Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter, indicating perfect fudgy brownies.
Make Ahead: These brownies can be made a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Tips and Tricks about Easy Lemon Brownies

Enhance your baking experience with these handy tips for making Easy Lemon Brownies. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, these tricks will help you achieve the best results.

Storage: After the brownies cool, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for 3 to 4 days.
Freezing: To keep brownies fresh longer, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Variations: Feel free to experiment with flavors! Add in chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions: These brownies are delightful on their own but are also fantastic with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Glazing Tips: For a thicker glaze, add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

Side Dish Ideas for Easy Lemon Brownies

When it comes to serving Easy Lemon Brownies, the options are endless! Here are a few serving ideas that will elevate your dessert experience:

Fruit Salad: Pair these brownies with a refreshing summer fruit salad. The sweetness of the fruit complements the tartness of the lemon perfectly.
Iced Tea: A glass of chilled iced tea is a perfect, light beverage to serve alongside these brownies, enhancing their bright flavors.
Cheese Platter: For a fun twist, serve with a mild cheese platter. The creaminess of the cheese balances the citrusy goodness of the brownies.
Picnic Treat: These brownies are great for picnics! Pack them in a container with some fresh berries for a delightful outdoor dessert.
Seasonal Events: Serve these brownies during springtime gatherings or at Easter brunch; their bright color and flavor will be a hit!

FAQ

While you can experiment with reducing the sugar, it’s important to remember that sugar plays a crucial role in the texture and moisture of the Easy Lemon Brownies. Reducing it too much might lead to drier brownies. If you’re looking to cut down on sugar, consider using a sugar substitute that measures cup-for-cup like Stevia or monk fruit. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile may change slightly.

Yes, you can make some substitutions in the Easy Lemon Brownies recipe. For instance, if you don’t have cornstarch, you can use an equal amount of all-purpose flour instead. However, the texture might be slightly different. Consider using fresh lemons for both zest and juice for the best flavor, and if you need a dairy-free option, replace the butter with a suitable dairy-free alternative.

To keep your Easy Lemon Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature, where they’ll last for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 to 6 days. Alternatively, for longer storage, wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.

Absolutely! Easy Lemon Brownies can be made a day in advance, which makes them perfect for gatherings. Simply bake them and store them in an airtight container once cooled. The flavors will continue to meld, making them even more delicious the next day. They’re ideal for picnics, parties, or any occasion where you want a sweet treat ready to go!

Conclusion

The Easy Lemon Brownies are a delightful blend of tartness and sweetness, capturing the essence of lemon in a fudgy treat. Their bright flavor and rich texture make them a standout dessert that everyone will love. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!