Lemon Brownies embody a harmonious blend of tart and sweet, providing a sophisticated twist on the classic dessert bar. With a tender, moist texture infused with bright lemon zest, these enticing treats are not only visually appealing but also delivers a refreshing taste experience. The subtle citrus notes elevate them into the realm of the refined, making them a perfect finishing touch for any elegant gathering.
Why Make This Recipe
- Effortless Yet Elegant: Simple preparation meets sophisticated flavor, effortlessly impressing guests.
- Minimal Ingredients: Few quality components highlight the freshness of lemon, ensuring each bite is a delightful indulgence.
- Impressive Flavor: The combination of a soft brownie base and zesty glaze transforms ordinary lemon bars into a gourmet delight.
Ingredients
Base
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- Zest of 1 large lemon
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Sauce
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Optional: additional lemon zest for extra brightness
Topping
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Lemon zest for garnish
How to Make Lemon Brownies
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Incorporate Eggs and Zest: Add the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Then, gently mix in the lemon zest and juice, awakening the vibrant flavors.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined to maintain a tender texture.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the Lemon Sauce: While the brownies are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. If desired, add more lemon zest for an extra zestiness.
- Glaze the Brownies: Once the brownies have cooled slightly, pour the glaze evenly over the top, allowing it to seep into the warm edges. Let it set for at least 30 minutes before cutting.
How to Serve Lemon Brownies
For an elegant presentation, cut the brownies into neat squares and arrange them on a delicate china platter. Dust with additional powdered sugar for a touch of sophistication, and consider garnishing with a few curls of lemon zest or edible flowers for visual appeal. Pair with a cup of Earl Grey tea or a flute of sparkling Prosecco to complete the experience.
How to Store Lemon Brownies
To maintain the enticing texture and flavor, store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week, allowing them to come to room temperature before serving. For a fresh taste, gently reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Tips to Make Lemon Brownies
- Use Fresh Lemons: For the best flavor, always use fresh lemons rather than bottled juice.
- Check for Doneness: Begin checking your brownies a few minutes before the timer goes off; overbaking can lead to dryness.
- Chill Before Cutting: For cleaner edges, refrigerate the brownies for about 30 minutes before slicing.
- Add a Crunch: Consider adding finely chopped nuts for an additional textural element.
- Enhance with Herbs: A subtle infusion of fresh thyme or rosemary in the glaze can elevate the flavor profile.
Variation
For a delightful upgrade, replace half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a nutty flavor and moist texture. Alternatively, experiment with different citrus fruits like lime or grapefruit to create unique flavor profiles. Presentation can be elevated with a drizzle of white chocolate over the glaze for added sweetness and elegance.
FAQs
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, simply replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring it is suitable for baking.
Can I freeze lemon brownies?
Absolutely! Once cut, place the brownies in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
Can I adjust the sweetness?
Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar in the batter or glaze to suit your flavor preference. Reducing the sugar may also allow the lemon’s brightness to shine through more prominently.
Conclusion
Lemon Brownies offer a splendid balance of zest and sweetness, presenting an elegant indulgence for any occasion. Their simplicity allows for both novice and experienced bakers to create a memorable dessert that resonates with sophistication. Share your culinary creations and insights in the comments, and consider how you might personalize this delightful recipe. How would you make this dish your own?
Print
Lemon Brownies
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Lemon Brownies embody a harmonious blend of tart and sweet, providing a sophisticated twist on the classic dessert bar, perfect for any elegant gathering.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- Zest of 1 large lemon
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for the sauce)
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (for the sauce)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Lemon zest for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, then mix in the lemon zest and juice.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- For the sauce, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth, adding more lemon zest if desired.
- Once the brownies have cooled slightly, pour the glaze over the top and let it set for at least 30 minutes before cutting.
Notes
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to a week. For a fresh taste, gently reheat before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg