Frosted Lemon Brownies

Frosted Lemon Brownies are an absolute treat that combines the best of both worlds: chewy, fudgy brownies paired with a bright, tangy frosting. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a BBQ, attending a potluck, or just craving something sweet at home. Imagine biting into that rich brownie, followed by the zesty lemon frosting that dances on your taste buds. It’s an irresistible combination!

Let’s be real, a touch of lemon in a dessert can brighten your day. The flavor of fresh lemons adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness, making these brownies a hit with everyone. Plus, they’re simple to make, so even if you’re a newbie in the kitchen, you’ll find this recipe a breeze to follow. So grab your apron, and let’s start baking these delightful Frosted Lemon Brownies together!

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of butter and brown sugar creates a rich, chewy brownie base that contrasts perfectly with the bright lemon frosting. There’s something about that depth of flavor from the brown sugar that just sings when paired with the lemony sweetness. Using freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest is key here; it enhances the flavor and provides an authentic citrus burst, lending a tangy twist that balances out the sweetness.

Moreover, the unique ermine frosting method makes this recipe stand out. It results in a creamy, airy finish that complements the dense brownies beautifully. Your friends and family won’t believe how fluffy and delicious it is!

Why You’ll Love This Frosted Lemon Brownies

You’re bound to love these brownies for several reasons. First off, the taste is simply irresistible! The balance of chewy brownie with the zesty frosting ensures that each bite is a delightful experience. They’re so good that you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds… and thirds.

Another reason you’ll fall for these treats is their versatility. Whether you’re at a family gathering, a picnic, or just cozying up on your couch with a good book, these brownies are perfect for any occasion. Plus, the easy-to-follow instructions make this recipe approachable for bakers of any skill level, ensuring your success every single time.

Ingredients

To whip up these delightful Frosted Lemon Brownies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks / 227 g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 ¾ cups (350 g) light brown sugar, packed
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• ¼ cup (61 g) lemon juice (from about 2 medium lemons)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 ½ cups (312.5 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¾ cup (180 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice (from 4-5 medium lemons)
• 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (2 sticks / 227 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar

Making the Frosted Lemon Brownies

Preheating and Preparing the Baking Dish

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, prepare a 9×9-inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper. This makes it easier to remove the brownies later.

Combining Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and packed light brown sugar. Stir until well-blended. You want to mix it until there are no lumps, as this blend will form a gooey, delightful base for your brownies.

Adding Eggs and Lemon

Next, add the three large eggs to the mixture one at a time. Mix thoroughly after each addition. Then, it’s time to stir in the ¼ cup of lemon juice and lemon zest. The smell at this stage is simply heavenly!

Mixing Dry Ingredients

In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together the 2 ½ cups of flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt until evenly mixed. The cornstarch helps to give the brownies that chewy texture we all crave.

Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the butter and egg mixture. Stir until fully integrated, creating a smooth batter. It should be glossy and delicious-looking.

Baking the Brownies

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges become slightly golden. Remember, avoid overbaking—nobody likes dry brownies! A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs. Once they’re done, allow the brownies to cool completely before you frost them.

Preparing the Lemon Frosting

Now, let’s prepare the lemon frosting! In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the ¾ cup lemon juice and 5 tablespoons of flour. Cook while whisking constantly until it comes to a boil, and continue boiling for an additional minute. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.

Creaming the Butter and Sugar

In a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, cream the room-temperature butter and granulated sugar on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy.

Adding Lemon Mixture

Once your lemon mixture has cooled, add it to the butter and sugar. Beat on medium-high speed until it’s fluffy and creamy. This is where the magic starts to happen!

Whipping the Frosting

Switch to a whisk attachment and mix on high for 7-8 minutes. This step is crucial—it creates that smooth, creamy texture we’re after for our frosting. You’ll be tempted to sneak a taste, and you totally should!

Frosting the Brownies

Now it’s time to spread that luscious lemon frosting evenly over the cooled brownies. Once frosted, slice them into squares. Trust me; they’ll look as good as they taste!

Serving Suggestions

For an indulgent treat, serve the Frosted Lemon Brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of warm brownie and cold ice cream is heavenly! You can also pair them with a cup of herbal tea to balance the sweetness and enhance those citrus notes. If you want an extra pop of color and flavor, add fresh berries on top.

Tips for Success

A few tips can ensure these brownies turn out perfectly each time:

• Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature, which leads to the best blending results.
• Don’t overbake the brownies; a toothpick should come out with just a few moist crumbs for that lovely chewy texture.
• Allow the brownies to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting off.

Variations

Feel free to get creative with these brownies! You can substitute lime juice and zest for a refreshing tropical twist. Another option is to add white chocolate chips to the brownie batter for extra sweetness. Plus, incorporating poppy seeds not only adds flavor but also creates a beautiful textural contrast.

Storage Tips

To keep your frosted brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to save some for later, freeze unfrosted brownies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to three months. Just remember to frost them after thawing!

FAQs

1. Can I use bottled lemon juice for this recipe?
Yes, but fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor and works wonders in this recipe.

2. What can I use instead of brown sugar?
You can replace brown sugar with an equal amount of granulated sugar, but keep in mind that it will change the flavor slightly.

3. How do I know when the brownies are properly baked?
Look for golden edges. A toothpick inserted into the center should have a few moist crumbs sticking to it.

4. Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Absolutely! These brownies taste even better the day after baking, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

5. How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

These Frosted Lemon Brownies truly are a celebration of flavor and texture! Combining a cheerful citrus punch with a dense, chewy base, they’re sure to become a cherished addition to your baking repertoire. Enjoy every bite!

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