If you’re craving a dessert that’s vibrant, tangy, and irresistibly fudgy, look no further than these Lemon Brownies. Inspired by a wildly popular recipe that’s been trending in the baking world, this version swaps traditional dark chocolate for white chocolate—resulting in a decadent, citrus-infused treat that’s perfect for sharing (or savoring solo!).
Why You’ll Love These Lemon Brownies
- Bursting with lemon flavor: Fresh lemon zest and juice deliver a bright, lively taste.
- Ultra fudgy texture: White chocolate creates a dense and gooey brownie reminiscent of classic versions but far more summery.
- Super easy to whip up: No stand mixer required—just a whisk, two bowls, and minimal cleanup.
Ingredients at a Glance
Lemon Brownies:
- 200 g granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 110 g butter
- 125 g white chocolate chips
- 2 eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 160 g all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
Lemon Glaze:
- 125 g powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp lemon juice
- (Optional) extra lemon zest for decoration
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 160°C (325°F), conventional. Line a 20×20 cm (8×8 in) square pan with parchment paper. - Melt Butter & White Chocolate
In a small bowl, melt together the butter and white chocolate chips until smooth. Let it cool slightly. - Activate the Lemon Flavor
In a large bowl, mix the granulated sugar and lemon zest. Rub them together with your fingers until the mixture resembles damp sand—this helps release the lemon oils for maximum flavor. - Combine Wet Ingredients
Add the melted butter and white chocolate mixture to the lemon sugar. Whisk until fully combined. - Whisk in the Eggs
Add eggs one at a time and whisk vigorously for 1–2 minutes until the mixture looks light and fluffy. - Add Juice & Vanilla
Stir in lemon juice and vanilla extract. - Fold in the Dry Ingredients
Add flour and salt to the mixture and gently fold until no flour streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix. - Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth out the top. Bake for 30–32 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is just set. - Cool Completely
Allow the brownies to cool fully in the pan before glazing. - Make the Lemon Glaze
Whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until you reach a pourable consistency. Spread it evenly over the cooled brownies. Top with a little extra lemon zest, if desired. - Set & Slice
Let the glaze set for about 30 minutes at room temperature or place them in the fridge for 15–20 minutes before slicing into squares.
Expert Baking Tips
- Use a kitchen scale: For best accuracy, especially when measuring flour and sugar.
- Rub the zest into the sugar: This simple step dramatically enhances the lemon flavor.
- Choose the right pan: A light-colored metal pan ensures even baking and prevents over-browning.
- Don’t overbake: The brownies should be just set in the center to maintain their fudgy texture.
Final Thoughts
These Lemon Brownies are a zesty twist on a classic dessert. They’re sweet, tangy, dense, and delightfully fudgy—all without a hint of chocolate. Perfect for spring and summer gatherings, bake sales, or just when you want something fresh and homemade. Once you try them, they’re sure to become a staple in your dessert rotation.