Name: Handmade Lemon Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 23 min
Total time: 38 min
Yield: 9 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest; ¼ cup fresh lemon juice; 1 cup all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze); 2-3 tablespoons lemon juice (for glaze)

Hey y'all! If you're a fan of tangy citrus desserts and crave a twist on classic brownies, you're in for a real treat with this Handmade Lemon Brownies Recipe. These blondie-style brownies are bursting with fresh lemon flavor, have a perfectly chewy yet tender texture, and are topped with a sweet-tart lemon glaze that's simply irresistible. Whether for a picnic, potluck, or cozy family night in, this recipe is a sunny showstopper that everyone will love. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Handmade Lemon Brownies Recipe

Quick and easy to make with just a handful of simple ingredients.
Bursting with bright, zesty lemon flavor in every bite.
Moist, chewy texture that’s a delightful twist on classic brownies.
Perfect for spring gatherings, special occasions, or everyday treats.
Easily customizable with fun variations and add-ins!

Ingredients for Handmade Lemon Brownies Recipe

1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
1 ¼ cups (250g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs, room temperature
2 tablespoons finely grated lemon zest (from 2 large lemons)
¼ cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice
1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt

Lemon Glaze:

1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, sifted
2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest

Directions: Step-by-Step Handmade Lemon Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan & Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment for easier release.

Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and glossy. Add eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice; whisk until fully combined. Gently fold in flour and salt until just combined—don't overmix! The batter will be thick and fragrant.

Step 3: Bake the Lemon Brownies

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 22-25 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking for maximum chewiness.

Step 4: Cool and Glaze

Let brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. For the glaze, whisk powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest in a bowl until smooth and pourable. Spread evenly over cooled brownies, then chill for 15 minutes to set.

Notes for the Best Handmade Lemon Brownies

Use fresh lemons for the brightest, most natural flavor. Here's how to get the most juice from lemons.
Don’t overmix the batter, which can lead to tougher brownies.
Room temperature eggs integrate more smoothly, resulting in a creamier texture.

Variations for Handmade Lemon Brownies Recipe

Berry Lemon Brownies: Fold in ½ cup of fresh blueberries or raspberries before baking for a fruity burst.
Gluten-Free Lemon Brownies: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite 1:1 gluten-free blend.
Frosted Lemon Brownies: Swap the glaze for a cream cheese frosting if you like extra richness!

Required Equipment for Lemon Brownies

8-inch square baking pan
Parchment paper
Mixing bowls (large and small)
Whisk or hand mixer
Microplane or fine grater (for zest)
Spatula
Wire cooling rack

Storage Instructions for Handmade Lemon Brownies Recipe

Store cooled lemon brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week. For longer storage, wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve these zesty lemon brownies chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor. Pair beautifully with fresh berries, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a hot cup of herbal tea or coffee for a comforting afternoon treat.

Pro Tips for Handmade Lemon Brownies Recipe

For clean, bakery-worthy slices, chill brownies before cutting and use a sharp, damp knife.
Adjust lemon juice in the glaze for your preferred level of tartness.
Let the glazed brownies sit for at least 15 minutes before slicing to ensure the glaze sets properly. Check out more brownie tips from King Arthur Baking.