Description

Imagine biting into a sweet, tangy, and incredibly moist dessert that melts in your mouth with every bite. These homemade lemonies are the perfect balance of citrusy zest and buttery richness. Combining the texture of a brownie with the zesty flavor of fresh lemons, this treat is a unique spin on the classic lemon bar, creating a dessert that is simply irresistible. Whether you're serving these at a summer gathering, bringing them to a potluck, or just indulging in a treat for yourself, these lemonies will quickly become a go-to recipe for all lemon lovers.

With a simple list of ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your pantry, this recipe is easy to follow yet delivers incredible results. The fresh lemon juice and zest create a vibrant citrus flavor, while the buttery base provides a rich and satisfying bite. And the glaze? It adds the perfect finishing touch, making each square shine with a glossy, sweet-tart topping. Let's get started!

Ingredients

• For the Lemonies:
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup sugar
• ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• ¼ cup lemon juice
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• For the Glaze:
• 1 ¾ cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Preparation Method

1. Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9-inch baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving an overhang for easy removal later. This simple step ensures that the lemonies won't stick to the pan, and makes cleanup a breeze.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, lemon zest, baking powder, and salt until thoroughly combined. The lemon zest, rich in natural oils, is key to infusing the dry ingredients with a fresh citrus aroma, ensuring that every bite of your lemonies will be bursting with lemony goodness.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix together the melted and cooled butter, lemon juice, eggs, and vanilla extract. The butter should be melted but cooled to prevent cooking the eggs. Stir until just incorporated, making sure not to overmix as this can result in a denser texture.
4. Bake the Lemonies

Pour the prepared batter into your lined baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 22 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. Avoid overbaking, as you want your lemonies to remain soft and moist.
5. Cool and Glaze

Once baked, remove the lemonies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan. While they cool, you can prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract (if using). The glaze should be smooth and slightly thick, perfect for drizzling. Once the lemonies are cool, pour the glaze over the top and spread it evenly. For an extra touch of flavor and decoration, sprinkle some additional lemon zest over the glaze.
6. Serve and Enjoy!

Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before slicing into 16 squares. Serve these luscious lemonies at room temperature, and watch as they disappear in no time. The bright lemon flavor, coupled with the buttery richness and sweet glaze, will leave everyone coming back for seconds!

Tips and Conclusion

For an even more intense lemon flavor, consider adding a bit more lemon zest or using Meyer lemons, which offer a slightly sweeter and less acidic taste. If you like a little texture in your lemonies, try incorporating some finely chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, into the batter for a subtle crunch.

Homemade lemonies are a delightful fusion of sweetness and citrus that is perfect for any occasion. Their soft, fudgy texture paired with the zesty glaze makes them stand out from traditional lemon bars or brownies. Plus, the recipe is simple and quick, making it ideal for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros looking for a quick fix of lemony goodness. Whether you're serving them at a gathering or enjoying them with a cup of tea, these lemonies will brighten your day with their vibrant flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Enjoy this citrusy indulgence and don’t forget to share—you may be asked for the recipe!