There’s something magical about the scent of fresh lemons in the kitchen, especially when it’s tied to fond memories. These Lemonies, or lemon brownies, are a delightful dessert that combines the tangy flavor of lemons with the sweetness of a classic brownie. Perfect for summertime gatherings or as a zesty alternative to heavier desserts, these lemon bars strike the ideal balance between tart and sweet. Whether you’re making them with children or serving them at an informal event, these Lemonies are sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
For the Lemon Batter:
1 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cup granulated sugar
A pinch of salt
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Zest from 1 large lemon
1/2 cup salted butter, melted and cooled
2 large eggs
1 large egg yolk
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the Lemon Glaze:
3/4 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Zest of 1/2 lemon
Directions:
Preheat and Prep:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal, or generously grease the pan.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, baking powder, and lemon zest. The lemon zest will infuse the batter with a fresh citrus aroma.
Combine Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, egg yolk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until the batter is smooth and well-incorporated.
Bake:
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs. This will ensure the Lemonies remain chewy yet fully cooked.
Cool:
Allow the Lemonies to cool completely in the pan. This step is crucial for setting the texture before adding the glaze.
Prepare the Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar with lemon juice and zest until smooth. The glaze should be thick enough to coat a spoon but still pourable.
Glaze the Lemonies:
Once the Lemonies have cooled, pour the glaze over them, spreading it evenly.
Refrigerate the glazed Lemonies for 1-2 hours to allow the glaze to set properly.
Serve:
Use the parchment overhangs to lift the Lemonies out of the pan.
Cut into squares and serve chilled for a refreshing treat or at room temperature for a softer texture.
Variations or Substitutions:
Blueberry Lemonies: Add fresh blueberries to the batter before baking for bursts of juicy sweetness with every bite.
Lavender Infusion: Stir 1 teaspoon of dried culinary lavender into the glaze for a sophisticated aromatic note that pairs beautifully with lemon.
Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary restrictions. Ensure the blend is suitable for baking to maintain the desired texture.
Why This Recipe Is Uniquely Yours:
Lemonies are a delightful dessert that brings together the vibrant flavor of lemons with the rich sweetness of a brownie. They are versatile, easy to make, and perfect for a wide range of occasions, from casual picnics to elegant parties. The simplicity of this recipe, combined with its potential for customization, ensures that it will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, each bite offers a refreshing and indulgent experience that will bring a smile to anyone who tastes it.
Conclusion:
Gather your ingredients, invite some friends over, and whip up a batch of these delicious Lemonies today! With their bright, tangy flavor and perfectly balanced sweetness, they’re sure to become a beloved treat that you’ll want to make again and again. Bon appétit!
