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Easy lemon brownies – dense, fudgy, citrusy squares with a tangy lemon glaze
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Lemon Brownies

These Easy Lemon Brownies are a bright and zesty twist on a classic favorite! Dense, fudgy, and bursting with fresh lemon flavor, they're topped with a tangy lemon glaze that makes them absolutely irresistible. Perfect for spring celebrations, summer picnics, or any time you need a little taste of sunshine. For another delicious citrus dessert, try our Lemon Crinkle Cookies.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: citrus brownies, easy lemon brownies, lemon brownies recipe
Servings: 24 squares
Calories: 185kcal
Author: Angela

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch Baking Pan Essential for this recipe.
  • Electric Mixer For creaming butter and sugar.
  • Microplane or Zester For fresh lemon zest.
  • Parchment Paper For easy removal.

Ingredients

  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 tbsp lemon zest (about 2-3 lemons)
  • 0.33 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 to 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (for glaze)
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest (for glaze)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang, and lightly grease.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Set aside.
  • In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Beat in eggs one at a time. Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla; mix until combined.
  • Gently fold in the flour mixture with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix.
  • Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely in the pan.
  • For glaze, whisk powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons lemon juice. Add more juice if needed for pourable consistency. Stir in lemon zest.
  • Pour glaze over cooled brownies and spread evenly. Let set for 30 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Pro Tips: Use room temperature eggs and butter for the best texture. Don't overmix the batter – mix just until combined. For the most vibrant flavor, use fresh lemon juice and zest. Gently rub the lemon zest into the sugar to release more oils. Let the brownies cool completely before glazing. These brownies taste even better the next day!