These Lemon Brownies are the ultimate citrus lover’s dream—not actually brownies, but dense, fudgy lemon bars with a crackly top and tart glaze. Imagine the chewy texture of a brownie meets the bright punch of lemon bars, all in one irresistible dessert. Perfect for spring brunches, tea parties, or when you need a burst of sunshine in every bite!
Why This Recipe Stands Out:
✔️ Unusual twist on classic lemon desserts
✔️ Balanced flavor – not too sweet, not too tart
✔️ One-bowl wonder (minimal cleanup!)
✔️ Stays moist for days thanks to the olive oil addition
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🛒 Ingredients
For the Lemon Brownies:
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- ¾ cup (95g) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (60g) almond flour (for texture; sub all-purpose if needed)
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- Zest of 2 lemons (about 2 tbsp)
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest (optional, for extra zing)
For Garnish:
- Edible flowers (optional)
- Extra lemon zest
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Make the Batter
- Whisk dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine sugar, flours, and salt.
- Add wet ingredients: Pour in melted butter, olive oil, eggs, lemon zest/juice, and vanilla. Mix until just combined (don’t overmix!).
2️⃣ Bake
- Prep pan: Line an 8×8″ baking pan with parchment paper (leave overhang for easy removal).
- Spread batter: Pour in batter and smooth the top. Bake at 350°F/175°C for 23–25 mins until edges are golden and center springs back when touched.
3️⃣ Glaze & Cool
- Make glaze: Whisk powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Add zest if using.
- Finish: Drizzle glaze over warm brownies. Let cool completely (1 hour) before slicing into squares.
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🧊 Storage & Tips
Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for 3 days (glaze keeps them moist).
Freezer: Freeze unglazed squares for 1 month. Add glaze after thawing.
Pro Tips:
✅ For extra fudginess, underbake by 2 minutes.
✅ Zest hack: Use a microplane for superfine zest without bitterness.
✅ Adult twist: Add 1 tbsp limoncello to the glaze.
🍋✨ Sunshine Lemon Brownies (Zesty, Buttery & Glazed to Perfection!)
Description
These squares boast a dense, velvety crumb infused with fresh lemon zest and juice, topped with a tart powdered sugar glaze that seeps into every nook. The secret? Olive oil adds richness while keeping them supremely moist. They’re what would happen if lemon bars and blondies had a delicious love child.
Ingredients
For the Lemon Brownies:
For the Glaze:
For Garnish:
Instructions
Make the Batter
- Whisk dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine sugar, flours, and salt.
- Add wet ingredients: Pour in melted butter, olive oil, eggs, lemon zest/juice, and vanilla. Mix until just combined (don’t overmix!).
Bake
- Prep pan: Line an 8x8" baking pan with parchment paper (leave overhang for easy removal).
- Spread batter: Pour in batter and smooth the top. Bake at 350°F/175°C for 23–25 mins until edges are golden and center springs back when touched.
Glaze & Cool
- Make glaze: Whisk powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Add zest if using.
- Finish: Drizzle glaze over warm brownies. Let cool completely (1 hour) before slicing into squares.
Nutrition Facts
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 210kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 10g16%
- Total Carbohydrate 28g10%
- Sugars 20g
- Protein 2g4%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
🧊 Storage & Tips
Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for 3 days (glaze keeps them moist).
Freezer: Freeze unglazed squares for 1 month. Add glaze after thawing.
