Description
Zesty Lemon Brownies offer a delightful twist on traditional brownies by incorporating the bright and refreshing flavor of fresh lemons. These moist, tangy treats combine a buttery cake-like texture with a sweet lemony zing, making them perfect for a refreshing dessert or a vibrant snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter, softened
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar
- 2 large Eggs
- Zest of 2 Fresh Lemons
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice
For Dusting
- Powdered Sugar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This process helps to incorporate air for a tender texture.
- Add Eggs and Lemon Zest: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the freshly grated lemon zest to infuse the batter with citrus aroma and flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and seasoning.
- Fold Dry Ingredients into Wet: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender crumb.
- Add Lemon Juice and Spread Batter: Stir in fresh lemon juice to enhance the zesty flavor, then spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the surface for even baking.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the edges turn golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Finish: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, dust the top generously with powdered sugar, then cut into 12 squares and serve.
Notes
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavor; bottled lemon juice lacks the bright zestiness.
- Don’t overmix the batter once flour is added to keep the brownies tender.
- Let the brownies cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar to avoid melting.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For extra lemon flavor, you can drizzle a lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice over the cooled brownies.
