Lemon Brownies with Citrus Glaze

These lemon brownies are the answer whenever I crave something both buttery and citrusy They come out soft with a gentle crumb and that drizzly bright lemon glaze is my favorite finishing touch for any spring or summer table

I baked these for a picnic last year and every square disappeared faster than I expected This recipe is now a go to when I want something uplifting and homemade on the dessert table

Ingredients

• All purpose flour: gives structure and lightness look for unbleached for the best crumb
• Granulated sugar: delivers balanced sweetness use fine sugar for easy mixing
• Salt: sharpens flavors use fine sea salt for best results
• Unsalted butter: provides richness soften it fully for even mixing
• Large eggs: add moisture and create that soft bite use the freshest eggs you can find
• Lemon zest: infuses bright citrus aroma scrub lemons before zesting
• Lemon juice: brings that signature tang be sure to squeeze lemons fresh
• Vanilla extract: rounds out the citrus use pure extract for deeper flavor
• Powdered sugar for the glaze: gives a smooth finish sift to avoid clumps
• Lemon juice for the glaze: heightens flavor again fresh is best
• Lemon zest for the glaze: gives flecks of real citrus and extra aroma

When shopping choose lemons that feel heavy and glossy to promise the juiciest result

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Pan:

Line an eight inch square baking pan with parchment paper so the brownies lift out easily after baking

Cream Butter and Sugar:

Beat softened butter and granulated sugar together until pale and fluffy This makes the crumb light and prevents dense bars

Add Eggs and Citrus:

Mix in the eggs one at a time then add the lemon juice zest and vanilla extract Stir until silky and combined so you capture all the citrus oils

Incorporate Dry Ingredients:

Gently fold in flour and salt stirring just until no dry spots remain This step keeps the brownies tender rather than tough

Bake:

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about twenty five minutes A toothpick should come out with just a few moist crumbs but not wet batter

Cool Completely:

Let the brownies cool fully in the pan which ensures the glaze sets perfectly later

Prepare and Add the Glaze:

Mix powdered sugar with lemon juice and zest whisking until smooth and pourable Spread over the cooled brownies

Chill and Slice:

Chill the glazed brownies for about fifteen minutes This helps the glaze firm up so every cut is neat and pretty

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Lemon zest is always my favorite part I love how the tiny flecks of zest add not just aroma but a little sparkle in each square My kids and I once pressed extra zest onto the glaze for an almost confetti like look and it made the brownies feel extra festive

Storage Tips

Store lemon brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days If you want them to last even longer refrigerate where they stay fresh for about a week Just bring to room temperature before serving for the best soft texture The glaze will stay glossy if you layer parchment between bars

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use white whole wheat flour in place of regular for a touch more texture Just watch for a slightly nuttier taste If you want a dairy free option swap in a plant based butter though the flavor will shift a little Bottled lemon juice does not have the same clean zing as fresh so I recommend always squeezing lemons yourself

Serving Suggestions

These brownies shine with a cup of hot tea or coffee For a special gathering try topping each square with a swirl of whipped cream or a few berries The citrus flavors also work well as an after dinner finish served with a dollop of Greek yogurt on the side

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Cultural and Historical Context

Lemon desserts have long been loved in American baking from pies to cakes Lemon brownies are relatively new compared to their fudgy chocolate cousins but have become wildly popular for their simple prep and unique balance of richness and tartness that feels just right any time of year

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ How do I achieve a strong lemon flavor?

Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and plenty of zest. For even more punch, add a few drops of lemon extract if desired.

→ Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate to keep them fresh longer.

→ What texture should I expect?

These bars offer a soft, cake-like crumb that remains moist as long as you avoid overbaking.

→ Is a glaze necessary?

The citrus glaze enhances both sweetness and lemon flavor, but you may leave it out or dust with powdered sugar if preferred.

→ Can these bars be made gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for similar results.

→ How do I cut clean squares?

Chill the bars briefly after glazing, then slice with a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts for tidy edges.