Fudgy Lemon Brownie Bars (Lemon Blondies)
If you’re a fan of desserts that combine the rich, buttery goodness of brownies with the zesty brightness of lemons, then you’re in for a treat with these Fudgy Lemon Brownie Bars, also known as Lemon Blondies. These delightful bars are a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, making them a fantastic dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a summer picnic or enjoying them with a cozy cup of tea in the winter, these fudgy treats are sure to please. With just a handful of ingredients, including fresh lemons, these bars are easy to whip up and even easier to devour!
Why This Fudgy Lemon Brownie Bars (Lemon Blondies) Stands Out
These Fudgy Lemon Brownie Bars (Lemon Blondies) are not your average dessert. They stand out for several reasons:
1. The unique combination of fudgy texture and bright lemon flavor creates an irresistible treat.
2. Using fresh lemons enhances the taste and aroma, offering a delightful burst of citrus in every bite.
3. They’re incredibly versatile—you can serve them at any gathering, and they’ll be a hit, whether it’s a picnic, a birthday party, or just a cozy evening at home.
4. The recipe is simple and requires minimal ingredients, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
What’s in the Bowl
To make these Fudgy Lemon Brownie Bars (Lemon Blondies), you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 lemons, zested and juiced
What’s in the Gear List
Before diving into the baking process, make sure you have the following gear on hand:
- Mixing bowls: A large bowl for mixing the batter and a smaller one for the glaze.
- Whisk: To combine ingredients smoothly.
- Spatula: For folding the batter and spreading it into the pan.
- 9×13 inch baking pan: The perfect size for these fudgy bars.
- Cooling rack: To cool the bars once they’re baked.
Fudgy Lemon Brownie Bars (Lemon Blondies) in Steps
Ready to make some delicious Fudgy Lemon Brownie Bars (Lemon Blondies)? Follow these simple steps for a perfect batch!
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt until well combined. Set aside.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the lemon juice and zest, mixing until everything is combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of your bars.
Step 5: Bake the Bars
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (but not wet batter).
Step 6: Cool and Glaze
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. After about 10 minutes, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, a tablespoon of lemon juice, and a bit of lemon zest until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more lemon juice or powdered sugar as needed. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Once the glaze has set, slice the bars into squares or rectangles. Serve them fresh, and enjoy the delightful fusion of fudgy texture and zesty lemon flavor!
Spring to Winter: Ideas
These Fudgy Lemon Brownie Bars (Lemon Blondies) are perfect for any season. Here are some ideas to enjoy them year-round:
- Serve them at a spring picnic along with iced tea or lemonade.
- Pair them with fresh berries for a summer dessert.
- Package them as gifts during the holiday season for friends and family.
- Top them with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream during the winter for a cozy treat.
Insider Tips
- For an extra burst of lemon flavor, add a pinch of lemon extract to the batter.
- Make sure to use fresh lemons for the best taste—bottled lemon juice doesn’t compare.
- Be careful not to overbake the bars; they should be fudgy and moist in the center.
- Experiment with adding white chocolate chips or nuts for additional texture and flavor.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
To keep your Fudgy Lemon Brownie Bars (Lemon Blondies) fresh:
- Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate them, where they can last for about a week.
- You can also freeze the bars by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil; they’ll stay good for up to 2 months.
FAQ
Can I use less sugar in the recipe?
While you can reduce the sugar slightly, keep in mind that it affects the texture and sweetness. It’s best to stick to the recommended amounts for optimal results.
What can I substitute for butter?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, you can use melted coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute. Just make sure it’s suitable for baking.
Can I use other citrus fruits instead of lemon?
Absolutely! You can substitute with lime or orange for a different flavor profile, but adjust the sugar based on the fruit’s sweetness.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be cautious not to overbake!
Serve & Enjoy
Now that you’ve baked a delicious batch of Fudgy Lemon Brownie Bars (Lemon Blondies), it’s time to gather your friends and family to enjoy these delightful treats together. Their fudgy texture combined with the vibrant lemon flavor creates an unforgettable dessert experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, these bars will surely become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy the burst of sunshine they bring to your plate!
Fudgy Lemon Brownie Bars (Lemon Blondies)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9x13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt until well combined. Set aside.
- In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the lemon juice and zest, mixing until everything is combined.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of your bars.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (but not wet batter).
- Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. After about 10 minutes, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, a tablespoon of lemon juice, and a bit of lemon zest until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more lemon juice or powdered sugar as needed. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars.
- Once the glaze has set, slice the bars into squares or rectangles. Serve them fresh, and enjoy the delightful fusion of fudgy texture and zesty lemon flavor!
Notes
- For an extra burst of lemon flavor, add a pinch of lemon extract to the batter.
- Make sure to use fresh lemons for the best taste—bottled lemon juice doesn’t compare.
- Be careful not to overbake the bars; they should be fudgy and moist in the center.
