Description
These Lemon Brownies offer a bright, tangy twist on traditional brownies with the fresh zest and juice of lemons, combined with the smooth richness of white chocolate. Perfectly balanced between sweet and citrusy, they feature a moist, soft texture topped with a glossy lemon glaze that enhances their refreshing flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 (4 oz.) white chocolate bar (Ghirardelli recommended)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 Tbsp. lemon zest (from about 2 large lemons)
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 large egg yolk, room temperature
- 1 tsp. lemon extract
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1 cup + 2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/8 tsp. baking powder
- 2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
Lemon Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch light-colored aluminized steel baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring some overhang to easily lift the brownies out later, then set aside.
- Melt butter and chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter and white chocolate. Microwave covered with a paper towel for 1 minute, then stir. Continue microwaving in 15-30 second increments, stirring between each, until the mixture is fully melted, smooth, and not scorched. Let it cool slightly to avoid cooking the eggs in subsequent steps.
- Create lemon sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and lemon zest. Rub the mixture between your fingertips to release the essential oils from the zest, infusing the sugar with lemon flavor.
- Add eggs and extracts: Add the 2 large eggs and 1 large egg yolk along with lemon and vanilla extracts to the lemon sugar. Whisk vigorously for about 1 minute until combined and slightly fluffy.
- Mix with butter mixture: Pour the cooled white chocolate and butter mixture into the egg mixture and gently fold until fully incorporated.
- Add remaining dry ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. Fold the mixture a few times just until the dry ingredients are incorporated. Then add the fresh lemon juice last and fold gently to combine thoroughly without overmixing.
- Optional add-ins: If desired, fold in white chocolate chips at this stage for added texture and flavor.
- Pour into pan: Transfer the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out smoothly.
- Bake: Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes. The edges should be golden brown whereas the center will appear slightly underbaked and moist. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs attached. Be careful not to overbake to keep the brownies fudgy. Once baked, allow them to cool completely in the pan.
- Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice until the glaze is thick but still pourable.
- Spread over brownies: Use an offset spatula to evenly spread the lemon glaze over the cooled brownies. This adds a bright, sweet finishing touch.
- Garnish and set: Optionally garnish with additional lemon zest on top. Let the glaze set for 15-30 minutes at room temperature before slicing. Store the brownies at room temperature for 2-3 days or enjoy them chilled for a firmer texture.
Notes
- Use room temperature eggs to ensure even mixing and better texture.
- Do not overmix once the flour is added to maintain fudgy brownies.
- If you don’t have lemon extract, you can increase fresh lemon juice by 1 teaspoon but the extract adds concentrated flavor.
- For added texture, stir in white chocolate chips before baking.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate to enjoy cold.
- The lemon glaze should be spread once brownies are fully cooled to prevent melting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: lemon brownies, white chocolate brownies, lemon dessert, citrus brownies, baked brownies, lemon glaze, easy lemon brownie recipe
