Tangy Lemon Brownies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Tangy Lemon Brownies have the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, thanks to the fresh lemon zest and juice. The texture is dense and chewy, much like a classic brownie, but with a zesty citrus twist that makes them stand out. The lemon glaze on top adds an extra layer of sweetness and brightness, making these bars a refreshing and indulgent treat. Whether you’re a fan of lemon desserts or simply looking for something different, these brownies are sure to impress!

Ingredients

For the Brownies:

• 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
• 2 lemons, zested
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt
• 1 cup butter, melted and cooled to room temperature
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 large egg yolks, room temperature
• ¼ cup lemon juice (use the juice from the zested lemons)
• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (270 g)
• ½ teaspoon baking powder

For the Glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 3-5 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Brownie Batter:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, lemon zest, and sea salt.
• Add the melted and cooled butter to the sugar mixture and stir to combine.
• Beat in the eggs and egg yolks until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
• Stir in the lemon juice, making sure it’s evenly incorporated.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to over-mix.

2. Bake the Brownies:

• Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it into an even layer.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs (not wet batter). The brownies should be firm to the touch.
• Let the brownies cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

3. Prepare the Glaze:

• While the brownies are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar and 3 tablespoons of lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth and pourable. If the glaze is too thick, add additional lemon juice, 1 tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.

4. Glaze the Brownies:

• Once the brownies have cooled completely, drizzle the lemon glaze evenly over the top. You can spread it out with a spatula for a more even coating, or leave it in drizzles for a more rustic look.

5. Slice and Serve:

• Allow the glaze to set for about 10 minutes before slicing the brownies into squares. Serve and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-16 squares
• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Baking time: 30-35 minutes
• Cooling time: 20-30 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Lemon zest addition: If you love a more intense lemon flavor, feel free to add an extra tablespoon of lemon zest into the batter.
• Herbs: A small amount of fresh thyme or rosemary in the batter could add an interesting, aromatic twist to the lemony flavor.
• Gluten-free option: You can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version of these brownies.
• Coconut twist: Try adding a handful of unsweetened shredded coconut to the batter for an extra texture and tropical flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week.
• Freezing: These brownies freeze well. After the glaze has set, wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They will last up to 2-3 months in the freezer. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: To reheat, place a brownie in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to soften it slightly.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, as bottled lemon juice can sometimes have a more acidic and artificial taste. However, if you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled juice will work in a pinch.

Can I add more sugar to make the brownies sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter brownie, you can increase the sugar by a tablespoon or two. However, keep in mind that the glaze also adds sweetness, so you may not need to adjust it significantly.

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Yes, these brownies can be made a day ahead. Just store them in an airtight container once they’ve cooled and allow the glaze to set before covering them.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, you can use margarine instead of butter, but the flavor may not be as rich. Butter is preferred for the best texture and taste.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

Check the brownies by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with just a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), they are done. Be careful not to overbake them, or they may become too dry.

Can I make this recipe without the glaze?

Yes, the brownies are delicious on their own without the glaze. You can serve them plain, or dust them with powdered sugar for a simpler finish.

Can I add more lemon juice to the glaze?

Yes, you can adjust the consistency of the glaze by adding more lemon juice. Just make sure to add it in small increments until you reach your desired thickness.

Can I add fruit to the brownies?

Yes, adding fruit like blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries to the batter could add a nice fruity contrast to the lemony flavor.

Are these brownies gluten-free?

You can make them gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

How long will the glaze take to set?

The glaze will usually set within 10-15 minutes, but you can refrigerate the brownies to speed up the process if needed.

Conclusion

Tangy Lemon Brownies are the perfect combination of bright, zesty lemon flavor and rich, chewy brownie texture. The tangy glaze adds an extra burst of citrus, making these treats a delightful dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or simply enjoying them at home, these brownies are sure to impress with their refreshing lemon flavor and irresistible texture!

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