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The Ultimate Fudgy Lemon Brownies with Crackly Glaze

Close-up of fudgy lemon brownies showing a bright yellow lemon curd layer and shiny chocolate topping.

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Make rich, chewy lemon brownies that taste like a classic brownie but with bright citrus flavor. These bars feature a dense texture and are finished with a simple, glossy lemon glaze.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for glaze)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter and granulated sugar together until fully combined.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest and 1/4 cup lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
  4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing only until just combined. Do not overmix to keep the texture fudgy.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
  7. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The edges should look set, and a toothpick inserted near the center should come out with moist crumbs attached, not wet batter.
  8. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step is important for achieving the right texture.
  9. While cooling, prepare the glaze: Whisk the powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice until smooth. Add more powdered sugar or juice, a teaspoon at a time, to reach a thick but pourable consistency.
  10. Once the brownies are completely cool, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top. Let the glaze set before cutting into squares.

Notes

  • For the best crackly top, ensure your sugar and melted butter are well combined before adding the eggs.
  • Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the brightest flavor in these lemon dessert bars.
  • These sweet and tart brownies are excellent for making ahead; store them covered at room temperature for up to three days.

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