Lemon Brownies Recipe

Lemon Brownies are a bright and zesty twist on the classic brownie, blending the rich, fudgy texture of chocolate with the fresh, tangy flavor of lemon. The combination might sound…

By Alina • February 24, 2026 • Reading time: 6 min

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Lemon Brownies are a bright and zesty twist on the classic brownie, blending the rich, fudgy texture of chocolate with the fresh, tangy flavor of lemon. The combination might sound unusual at first, but the lemon adds a lovely pop that lifts the deep cocoa taste, making each bite a delightful surprise. With a soft, chewy center and just the right amount of citrus zing, these brownies are a perfect treat for anyone looking for something a little different.

I love making lemon brownies when I want a dessert that feels both sweet and refreshing. The lemon zest in the batter gives them a fresh aroma that fills the kitchen and always gets compliments. A little tip I use is to sprinkle some powdered sugar or add a simple lemon glaze on top to make them look even more inviting, which also boosts the lemon flavor. Plus, these brownies stay moist and tasty for days, so they’re great to bake ahead of time.

These brownies are fantastic served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or just on their own with a cup of tea. I find that the lemon flavor makes them perfect for spring or summer gatherings, but honestly, I enjoy them year-round whenever I’m craving something sweet with a bit of brightness. It’s a simple recipe that’s fun to make and always brings smiles around the table.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Butter: Melted unsalted butter gives these brownies a rich texture. You can swap with margarine or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free option, but butter adds the best flavor.

Lemon Juice & Zest: Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the brownies with a natural, tangy kick. Bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, but fresh zest really lifts the taste.

Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens and helps with texture. For a different twist, try coconut sugar or a fine cane sugar substitute.

Flour: All-purpose flour gives structure here. For gluten-free, you could try a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend.

Eggs: Eggs bind ingredients and add moisture. For egg-free, unsweetened applesauce or flax eggs can work but might slightly change texture.

How Can You Avoid Overmixing the Batter?

Overmixing flour can make brownies tough instead of tender. To keep them soft and moist:

• Mix dry ingredients into wet just until you no longer see flour streaks.
• Stir gently and avoid vigorous beating once the flour is in.
• When adding lemon juice and zest, fold them in smoothly but carefully to keep the batter light.
• If you mix less, your brownies will be more tender and cakey—perfect for lemon flavor.

Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13 inch baking pan – perfect size for even baking and easy slicing into brownies.
• Parchment paper – helps you lift brownies out smoothly without sticking or breaking.
• Large mixing bowl – roomy enough for mixing wet and dry ingredients comfortably.
• Whisk or wooden spoon – to mix wet ingredients smoothly and fold in dry ones gently.
• Measuring cups and spoons – precise measuring keeps your lemon brownies balanced and tasty.
• Cooling rack – lets brownies cool evenly so the glaze sets properly without getting soggy.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Add fresh blueberries for a burst of sweetness that pairs great with lemon’s tartness.
• Mix in white chocolate chips to add creamy sweetness and a nice texture contrast.
• Try swapping lemon zest with orange or lime zest for a citrus twist that’s still bright and fresh.
• Stir in a teaspoon of poppy seeds for a subtle crunch and classic lemon-poppy flavor.

How to Make Lemon Brownies?

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Brownies:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 2 tbsp lemon zest (zest from about 2 lemons)

For the Lemon Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, 25-30 minutes to bake, plus some extra time to cool and let the glaze set—around 45 to 60 minutes in total. It’s a quick and easy treat!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pan and Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to make sure the brownies don’t stick.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, stir together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Then add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for extra flavor.

3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mix to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined—don’t overmix! Finally, stir in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest until evenly mixed into the batter.

4. Bake the Brownies:

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, allow the brownies to cool slightly.

5. Make and Add the Lemon Glaze:

While the brownies cool, mix the powdered sugar and lemon juice together until smooth and pourable. Spread this glaze evenly over the warm brownies, then sprinkle the lemon zest on top for a fresh, zesty touch.

6. Let Glaze Set and Serve:

Let the glaze set before cutting the brownies into squares. Enjoy your zesty, moist lemon brownies!

Can I Use Bottled Lemon Juice Instead of Fresh?

Yes, you can use bottled lemon juice if fresh lemons aren’t available. Keep in mind that fresh juice and zest provide the brightest flavor, so your brownies might be a bit less vibrant but still tasty.

How Should I Store Leftover Lemon Brownies?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. If refrigerated, bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Can I Make These Lemon Brownies Gluten-Free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1-to-1 baking flour blend. Be sure to check your baking powder is gluten-free too for the best results.

Can I Prepare the Lemon Glaze Ahead of Time?

You can mix the glaze ahead and store it covered in the fridge for up to 2 days. Give it a good stir before spreading it on the brownies, and if it thickens too much, add a little extra lemon juice to loosen it.