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To make bright lemon brownies, you need a few simple ingredients. Here’s the complete list: - 1 cup unsalted butter, melted - 2 cups granulated sugar - 4 large eggs - Zest of 2 medium lemons - 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder - 1/4 teaspoon fine salt - Optional: Powdered sugar for dusting Each ingredient plays a key role. The unsalted butter gives richness. Sugar adds sweetness. Eggs bind everything together, creating a soft texture. The lemon zest and juice provide a bright, tangy flavor. Vanilla enhances the overall taste. Flour gives the brownies their structure. Baking powder helps them rise, while salt balances the sweetness. If you like, a dusting of powdered sugar adds a nice touch. These ingredients come together to create a treat that is both sweet and tart. You will love how easy they are to prepare! {{ingredient_image_2}} First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. Next, take a 9x13 inch baking pan. Grease it well to prevent sticking. Line the pan with parchment paper, leaving some hanging. This makes it easy to lift the brownies out later. In a large bowl, pour in 1 cup of melted unsalted butter. Add 2 cups of granulated sugar. Whisk this mixture together. You want it smooth with no lumps. This step helps create a rich base for your brownies. Now, add 4 large eggs to the butter-sugar mix. Incorporate them one at a time. Mix well after each egg. This helps create a smooth batter. Then, fold in the zest of 2 medium lemons and 1 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Add 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Stir until everything blends together. In another bowl, sift together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of fine salt. Sifting helps to aerate the flour and removes clumps. This is important for light and fluffy brownies. Carefully add the dry mix to the wet ingredients. Gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies, and we want them light and airy. Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they bake. Look for a golden top. To check if they are done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. After baking, let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, use the parchment to lift the brownies out. Place them on a wire rack to cool completely. To get the best texture, mix your butter and sugar well. This step helps create a light and airy brownie. When you add the eggs, do it one at a time. Mix well after each egg to keep the batter smooth. Be gentle when adding the flour mixture. Overmixing will make the brownies tough. You want a soft, chewy bite. For a bolder lemon taste, add more zest. This will make your brownies even brighter. You can also mix in a pinch of sea salt. Salt can enhance the sweet and sour flavors. If you want a unique twist, try adding a bit of almond extract. It pairs well with lemon and adds depth. To present your brownies beautifully, cut them into even squares. A clean knife helps create sharp edges. Dust the top with powdered sugar for a sweet touch. You can also add lemon slices on top for a fresh look. Use colorful plates to make your dessert pop. Bright colors catch the eye and make your treat more inviting. Pro Tips Use Fresh Lemons: For the best flavor, always use fresh lemons instead of bottled lemon juice. The zest and juice from fresh lemons will give your brownies a vibrant and aromatic citrus taste. Don't Overmix: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies instead of the light, airy texture you want. Check for Doneness: Since oven temperatures can vary, start checking your brownies a few minutes before the recommended baking time. A toothpick should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs for perfect doneness. Cooling is Key: Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting. This helps them set and makes it easier to achieve clean, even squares when you slice them. {{image_4}} You can add nuts to your lemon brownies for extra texture. Chopped walnuts or pecans work well. Just fold in about one cup of nuts into the batter before baking. This little change adds a nice crunch. It also gives a richer flavor. Nuts balance the sweet and tangy taste of the lemon. Try this if you enjoy a bit of crunch in your treats! Lemon brownies are great, but you can mix things up! Try adding other citrus fruits like lime or orange. Replace some lemon juice with lime juice for a zesty twist. You can also use orange zest for a sweeter taste. This will create a fun and fresh flavor. Each citrus brings its own unique taste. Experiment to find your favorite blend! If you love chocolate, this variation is for you! Melt some chocolate and swirl it into the batter. Use about half a cup of melted chocolate. You can create a marbled look. Just pour the brownie batter into the pan, then drizzle in the melted chocolate. Use a knife to gently swirl it. This gives a rich, chocolatey flavor that pairs well with lemon. It adds a delightful surprise to each bite! To keep your lemon brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps maintain their moist texture. You can layer them with parchment paper to avoid sticking. Place the container in a cool, dry spot. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can affect flavor and texture. You can freeze lemon brownies for longer shelf life. First, let them cool completely. Then, cut them into squares. Wrap each square in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. To thaw, take them out and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Enjoy them as if they were fresh! Lemon brownies last about 3 to 4 days at room temperature. If you store them in the fridge, they can last up to a week. For the best flavor, eat them within the first few days. If you notice any changes in texture or smell, it's best to discard them. Yes, you can use lemon extract. However, it will change the flavor. Use about 2 teaspoons of extract for a strong taste. Fresh lemon juice gives a bright and tangy flavor that is hard to beat. It also helps keep the brownies moist. Check the top for a golden color. Insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. The brownies should feel set but still soft. Let them cool before cutting. Yes, you can make them gluten-free. Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure the blend has a good structure for baking. This way, you still get that delightful texture and taste. Lemon brownies pair well with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Fresh berries add a nice touch too. You can also serve them with a cup of tea or coffee. The flavors balance nicely, making your treat even better. These lemon brownies are a delightful treat made from simple ingredients. We covered how to mix the butter and sugar, combine the wet and dry elements, and bake them perfectly. You learned tips for great texture and flavor, plus fun ways to change things up. Remember to store these treats properly for the best taste. With these easy steps, you can enjoy these delicious brownies anytime. Bake, share, and savor!

Citrus-Infused Lemon Brownies

Deliciously tangy lemon brownies infused with citrus flavors, perfect for a sweet treat.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 medium lemons, zest
  • 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 4 fine salt
  • to taste powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking pan by greasing it well and lining it with parchment paper.
  • In a large mixing bowl, pour in the melted unsalted butter. Add the granulated sugar and whisk together until smooth.
  • Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Fold in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
  • In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the top is set and a toothpick comes out clean.
  • Let the brownies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment paper and transfer to a wire rack.
  • Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar if desired, cut into squares, and enjoy!

Notes

Dust with powdered sugar for added sweetness.
Keyword brownies, citrus, dessert, lemon