Lemon Brownies Recipe – Sunshine in Every Bite!

If brownies are the ultimate comfort dessert, then Lemon Brownies are their bright, joyful cousin. Soft, dense, and bursting with fresh citrus flavor, these lemon brownie bars deliver everything you love about a classic brownie—just with a sunny twist. Each bite is rich yet refreshing, sweet but tangy, and finished with a glossy lemon glaze that melts right into the top.

Unlike lemon bars, which rely on a custard-style filling and shortbread crust, lemon brownies are all about texture. They’re fudgy, moist, and almost melt-in-your-mouth, with a tight crumb that feels indulgent without being heavy. Think brownie structure, blondie richness, and bold lemon flavor all rolled into one irresistible square.

Whether you’re baking for spring gatherings, summer picnics, holiday trays, or simply craving something cheerful, this lemon brownies recipe brings a pop of sunshine to any table.

What Makes Lemon Brownies So Special?

Lemon brownies stand out because they break the dessert rules—in the best way. They don’t rely on cocoa or chocolate for richness. Instead, butter, eggs, and sugar create that signature brownie density, while fresh lemon juice and zest provide vibrant flavor.

The result is a dessert that feels indulgent but refreshing. They’re rich without being cloying, sweet without being flat, and tangy enough to keep you reaching for another bite.

The lemon glaze isn’t optional—it’s essential. It seals in moisture, adds a silky finish, and amplifies that citrus punch that makes these brownies unforgettable.

Ingredients

Lemon Brownies

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tbsp lemon zest (fresh)
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt

Lemon Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• ½ tsp lemon zest (optional, for extra brightness)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and glossy.
3. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
4. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
5. Gently fold in flour and salt just until no dry streaks remain. Do not overmix.
6. Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top evenly.
7. Bake for 22–25 minutes, until the edges are set and the center is just slightly soft.
8. Remove from oven and allow brownies to cool completely in the pan.
9. In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth and pourable.
10. Spread glaze evenly over cooled brownies. Let set before slicing into squares.

Lemon Brownies

Soft, fudgy lemon brownies topped with a bright lemon glaze.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 9 bars

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 290

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Lemon Brownies

• 1 cup unsalted butter melted
• 1.5 cups granulated sugar
• 2 eggs large
• 1 tbsp lemon zest fresh
• 0.25 cup lemon juice fresh
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 0.5 tsp salt

Lemon Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tbsp lemon juice

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• 8×8 inch baking pan
• Parchment paper

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Whisk melted butter and sugar until smooth.
3. Add eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla.
4. Fold in flour and salt just until combined.
5. Bake 22–25 minutes until edges are set.
6. Cool completely, then glaze and slice.

Notes

Do not overbake for the best fudgy texture.

Texture Tips for Perfect Lemon Brownies

• Do not overbake. Slightly underbaked centers keep brownies fudgy.
• Use fresh lemons. Bottled juice won’t deliver the same brightness.
• Let them cool fully before glazing to prevent melting and sliding.
• Chill before slicing for ultra-clean edges.

Flavor Variations You’ll Love

• Lemon Blueberry Brownies: Fold fresh or frozen blueberries into the batter.
• Lemon Cream Cheese Swirl: Swirl sweetened cream cheese through the batter before baking.
• Lime or Orange Brownies: Swap lemon juice and zest for lime or orange.
• Extra Tangy: Add a second thin layer of glaze for bold citrus lovers.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon brownies shine in so many settings:

• Spring brunch spreads
• Baby showers and bridal showers
• Afternoon tea or coffee breaks
• Dessert trays alongside chocolate treats
• Picnics and potlucks

They pair beautifully with iced tea, coffee, lemonade, or fresh berries on the side.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Store lemon brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate for up to 5 days for a denser, extra-fudgy texture.
• Freeze unglazed brownies for up to 2 months; glaze after thawing.

Why Lemon Desserts Are So Popular

Lemon desserts balance sweetness with acidity, making them feel lighter and more refreshing. That bright citrus flavor wakes up the palate, which is why lemon treats are especially popular in spring and summer—but truly enjoyable year-round.

Lemon brownies combine that freshness with the indulgence of a brownie, creating a dessert that feels both comforting and uplifting.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Brownies are proof that brownies don’t need chocolate to be indulgent. Soft, dense, tangy, and topped with a luscious glaze, these bars bring sunshine to every bite. Once you try them, they’ll earn a permanent place in your dessert rotation—especially when you want something bright, joyful, and irresistibly delicious.