Description
Delight in these luscious Lemon Brownies, a perfect blend of tangy citrus and creamy sweetness. Featuring a moist, tender crumb infused with lemon zest and juice, and complemented by a rich white chocolate swirled batter, topped with a smooth lemon cream cheese frosting. A refreshing twist on classic brownies, ideal for citrus lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Batter
- 3/4 cup butter
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 3 tablespoons lemon zest
- 1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Lemon Cream Cheese Topping
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1–3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Cream Butter: Using a hand mixer, cream the butter in a large bowl until smooth and fluffy. This creates a tender texture in the brownies.
- Combine Sugar and Lemon Zest: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together sugar and lemon zest to evenly coat the sugar with lemon oils, enhancing flavor. Add this mixture to the creamed butter and cream together.
- Add Vanilla and Eggs: Stir in vanilla extract. Then add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to create a smooth batter.
- Melt White Chocolate: Place white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and melt in 20-second increments, stirring between intervals to avoid overheating. Stop when chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
- Mix White Chocolate and Lemon Juice: Add the melted white chocolate and lemon juice to the butter mixture and blend well for a rich, lemony flavor.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Whisk salt into the flour. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix just until combined to prevent overmixing and maintain tenderness.
- Bake: Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 35-38 minutes, starting to check at 25 minutes. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when done. Remove and let cool.
- Prepare Topping: While brownies cool, soften cream cheese in a small bowl using a hand mixer. Add powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest, then mix until smooth and creamy.
- Apply and Chill: Once brownies are completely cool, spread the lemon cream cheese topping evenly over the surface. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the frosting before serving.
Notes
- If using fresh lemons, zest before juicing to get the best lemon flavor.
- Adjust lemon juice in the topping from 1 to 3 tablespoons depending on desired tartness.
- For best results, use full-fat cream cheese at room temperature for a smooth topping.
- Keep an eye on the brownies while baking to avoid over-browning, especially in the final minutes.
- Store leftovers refrigerated and consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: lemon brownies, white chocolate, lemon zest, cream cheese frosting, citrus dessert
