Best Lemon Brownies Recipe

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Brighten your dessert table with these fudgy lemon brownies that are bursting with fresh citrus flavor. Each bite offers the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Easy to make and even easier to love, these lemon brownies will surely become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Violet Hart

Created by

Violet Hart

Last updated on 2025-11-14T10:46:23.027Z

These delightful lemon brownies are perfect for spring and summer gatherings, bringing a refreshing twist to your dessert spread.

A Delicious Twist on Classic Brownies

These lemon brownies offer a delightful departure from traditional chocolate brownies, combining the fudgy texture you love with a refreshing citrus twist. The blend of sweet and tart flavors makes them an exceptional treat for any time of year. Not only do they satisfy your sweet tooth, but they also invigorate your palate with bright notes of lemon that liven up your dessert experience.

By incorporating lemon into the brownie mix, these treats provide a perfect balance that can even counteract the heavy sweetness of regular desserts. They are ideal for gatherings, picnics, or as a special addition to your everyday baking. Once you taste these lemon brownies, you might find them surpassing your classic favorite!

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just wanting to enjoy a sweet treat at home, these lemon brownies fit the bill. They are versatile enough to be served at birthday parties, potlucks, or cozy dinners. The vibrant flavor and appealing appearance make them a standout dessert that everyone will love.

Furthermore, these brownies are incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal effort with maximum flavor. If you're looking to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe is your go-to solution. Just follow the simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of irresistible lemon brownies ready to share!

Tips for Baking Success

To ensure your lemon brownies turn out perfectly, make sure to use fresh lemon juice and zest. This will enhance the flavor and brightness of your treat. Take the time to blend the ingredients thoroughly, but avoid over-mixing once you add the flour. This helps retain the brownie’s fudgy texture that everyone loves.

Additionally, keep an eye on the baking time. Since ovens can vary, start checking for doneness a few minutes earlier than the suggested baking time. Look for a toothpick that comes out with a few moist crumbs — that indicates that the brownies are perfectly baked and will stay deliciously fudgy.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to get started on your lemon brownies.

Brownie Base

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice

These ingredients will yield a batch of deliciously tangy brownies.

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your lemon brownies to perfection.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine melted butter and sugar. Mix until well blended, then add eggs and vanilla. Stir in the flour, salt, lemon zest, and lemon juice until just combined.

Pour and Bake

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool in the pan for 10 minutes before lifting them out. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Enjoy your delicious lemon brownies with your friends and family!

Serving Suggestions

These lemon brownies can be enjoyed as they are, but a dash of powdered sugar on top adds an elegant touch. For a special treat, consider pairing them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the fudgy brownies, creating a delightful combination.

You can also elevate your presentation by serving lemon brownies on a decorative plate or adding fresh fruit, such as raspberries or blueberries, for a pop of color. These simple additions make them perfect for special occasions or even just a family dessert night.

Storage Tips

To keep your lemon brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep them longer, they can be refrigerated for up to a week. Just be sure to allow them to reach room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

For longer storage, these brownies freeze beautifully. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or microwave them for a few seconds for a warm, fudgy treat.

Variations to Try

Get adventurous with these lemon brownies by adding mix-ins such as white chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture and flavor. Chopped macadamia nuts or walnuts pairs wonderfully with the citrus flavor, making for a unique treat everyone will enjoy.

For a more intense lemon flavor, consider drizzling a simple lemon glaze over the cooled brownies. Just whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until it reaches your desired consistency, then drizzle it over the top for an irresistible finish that is sure to impress.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Yes, bottled lemon juice can be used in place of fresh lemon juice for convenience.

→ How should I store the leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Best Lemon Brownies Recipe

Brighten your dessert table with these fudgy lemon brownies that are bursting with fresh citrus flavor. Each bite offers the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Easy to make and even easier to love, these lemon brownies will surely become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time40 minutes

Created by: Violet Hart

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 12 servings

What You'll Need

Brownie Base

  1. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  2. 1 cup granulated sugar
  3. 2 large eggs
  4. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  5. 1 cup all-purpose flour
  6. 1/4 teaspoon salt
  7. Zest of 1 lemon
  8. 1/4 cup lemon juice

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Step 02

In a large bowl, combine melted butter and sugar. Mix until well blended, then add eggs and vanilla. Stir in the flour, salt, lemon zest, and lemon juice until just combined.

Step 03

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 04

Let the brownies cool in the pan for 10 minutes before lifting them out. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 150
  • Total Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg
  • Sodium: 60mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 15g
  • Protein: 1g