Lemon Brownie Bars

Name: Lemon Brownie Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16.0
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; Zest of 2 lemons; 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; Lemon zest for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Brighten up your dessert table with these delightful Lemon Brownie Bars! Combining the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with a zesty lemon twist, this recipe is a refreshing treat that's perfect for any occasion. Topped with a sweet lemon glaze, these bars are sure to impress your family and friends while satisfying your sweet cravings.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-17T05:52:28.599Z

A Perfect Balance of Flavors

These Lemon Brownie Bars are an exciting fusion of two classic desserts. The rich, fudgy base satisfies chocolate lovers, while the bright lemon flavor cuts through the richness, making each bite refreshing and delightful. The combination of sweetness from the sugar and tartness from the lemon juice creates an irresistible contrast that will leave you wanting more. This unique blend ensures that the bars are not overly sweet, striking the perfect balance for any dessert lover.

Pair these bars with a cup of tea or coffee for an elevated experience. The vibrant lemon notes enhance the warm flavors of your favorite brews, making it the ideal afternoon treat. Whether served at a party or enjoyed quietly at home, these bars make a lovely dessert that can be enjoyed at any time of day.

Easy to Make

One of the best things about these Lemon Brownie Bars is how simple they are to make. With just a few common ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can achieve fantastic results. Preparing the batter takes minimal time, and the cooling process allows you to focus on other tasks or simply relax while waiting for the delicious treats to set. This simplicity does not compromise the flavor or presentation, ensuring your dessert table will shine.

Moreover, this recipe is easily adaptable. If you're short on time, you can make the bars ahead, freeze them, and glaze them right before serving. This flexibility means you can fit these delightful bars into any hectic schedule, making them a go-to dessert for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Lemon Brownie Bars are incredibly versatile and suitable for various occasions. Whether you're planning a birthday party, a potluck, or a simple family gathering, these bars will undoubtedly impress your guests. Their cheery color and luscious glaze make them visually appealing, and the flavor profile is universally loved, catering to a wide range of taste preferences.

Beyond social events, they serve as a delightful homemade gift. Wrapped up nicely, these bars make for a thoughtful surprise for friends and loved ones. Sharing them not only spreads joy but also showcases your baking prowess. These bars are the kind of treat that brings people together, creating memorable moments and sweet experiences.

Ingredients

For the Bars

1 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
Zest of 2 lemons
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice

For the Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Lemon zest for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and granulated sugar until combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.

Add Flour and Lemons

Fold in flour, salt, lemon zest, and lemon juice until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Bake the Bars

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Glaze

While the bars are baking, mix powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth.

Cool and Glaze

Let the bars cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Once cool, pour the glaze over the bars and sprinkle with lemon zest.

Cut and Serve

Cut into squares, serve, and enjoy!

Storing and Serving Tips

To keep your Lemon Brownie Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to enjoy them for a longer period, consider freezing them. To freeze, cut the bars and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving, and you’ll have a delicious treat ready at a moment's notice.

When serving, consider pairing these bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. Fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries complement the lemon flavor beautifully and can elevate the presentation, making your dessert not only delicious but also visually stunning.

Customizing Your Bars

Feel free to experiment with this recipe to suit your personal preferences. For a richer chocolate flavor, you can swirl in some melted dark chocolate or chocolate chips into the batter before baking. Alternatively, adding a handful of nuts like walnuts or pecans can introduce a delightful crunch and texture to the bars.

You could also infuse the glaze with additional flavors like lavender or rosemary for a gourmet twist. The versatility of this recipe invites creativity, so don't hesitate to make it your own and discover new flavor combinations that excite your palate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.

→ How do I store leftover bars?

Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.