Lemon Brownie Bars Recipe: A Zesty, Chewy Delight 🍋🍫✨
1. Introduction
If you’re on the hunt for a sweet treat that combines the tangy freshness of lemons with the rich, chewy texture of brownies, look no further. This lemon brownie bars recipe is the perfect dessert to brighten up any occasion. Easy to prepare and bursting with vibrant citrus flavor, these lemon bars are a delightful twist on classic brownies. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, you’ll find this lemon brownie bars recipe straightforward and irresistibly delicious.
2. Ingredients Needed for Lemon Brownie Bars
- 1 cup (226 grams) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
For the best results, consider using high-quality ingredients like fresh lemons and real butter. You can also explore other lemon recipes for inspiration or try variations such as lemon cheesecake.
3. Step-by-Step Preparation of Lemon Brownie Bars
3.1. Preparing the Oven and Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
3.2. Making the Lemon Brownie Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar. Stir well until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Mix in the lemon zest and lemon juice. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix as this can affect the texture.
3.3. Baking the Lemon Brownie Bars
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares. For an extra touch, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a lemon glaze.
4. Tips for Perfect Lemon Brownie Bars
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for optimal flavor.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the texture light and chewy.
- Make sure the baked bars are cooled completely before slicing.
- For added zest, sprinkle some lemon zest on top before serving.
5. Storage and Serving Suggestions for Lemon Brownie Bars
Store leftover lemon brownie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Serve these lemon bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of fresh berries for a colorful and tasty presentation.
6. Variations and Customizations
Try adding a lemon-blueberry combo or incorporate crushed nuts for added texture. For a richer flavor, swirl in cream cheese or serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. These modifications can elevate your easy lemon or lemon brownie bars recipe to a whole new level.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Lemon Brownie Bars
Q1. How do I know when the lemon brownie bars are baked?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the bars are ready. Overbaking can dry out the bars, so keep an eye on the time.
Q2. Can I make lemon brownie bars gluten-free?
Yes, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to select a blend suitable for baking to achieve the right texture.
Q3. How to make the lemon glaze for lemon brownie bars?
Mix powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle it over the cooled lemon bars for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
8. More Lemon Recipes You Might Love
If you enjoyed this lemon lemon brownie bars recipe, don’t miss trying other delicious lemon desserts like lemon custard cake or lemon-blueberry sheet cake. For a creamy treat, explore our easy lemon cheesecake cake.
9. Conclusion
With its perfect balance of tart and sweet, the lemon brownie bars recipe is sure to impress friends and family alike. Easy to make and customizable, these bars are a fantastic addition to any dessert table. Whether for a holiday, potluck, or a quick homemade treat, these citrusy bars are bound to become a favorite. Try baking today and enjoy the irresistible flavor of lemon in a chewy, delightful form.
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Lemon Brownie Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Discover the zesty and chewy delight of Lemon Brownie Bars, a perfect blend of fresh lemon flavor and rich brownie texture. These easy-to-make lemon bars are ideal for brightening up any dessert table with their vibrant citrus taste and inviting appearance. Perfect for lemon lovers, this recipe combines tartness and sweetness in every bite, making it a irresistible treat for all occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (226 grams) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in lemon zest and lemon juice.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, stirring just until combined.
- Pour batter into prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares. Optional: dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with lemon glaze.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
- Avoid overmixing to keep the bars chewy and tender.
- Ensure the bars are fully cooled before slicing for clean cuts.
- Enhance presentation by sprinkling lemon zest or adding a glaze.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American