If you’re craving a bright, zesty treat that’s both chewy and tender, this Lemon Blondies with Lemon Glaze Recipe is exactly what you need. These luscious blondies burst with fresh lemon flavor, complemented perfectly by a tangy yet sweet lemon glaze that melts in your mouth. It’s a sunshine-in-a-bite kind of dessert that’s easy to whip up and sure to brighten any occasion or afternoon snack.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Lemon Blondies with Lemon Glaze Recipe plays a key role, from the buttery richness to the fresh zing of lemon zest and juice. These simple staples come together to create a balance of soft texture, sweet depth, and refreshing citrus that’s impossible to resist.
- Unsalted butter, 1 cup melted: Provides rich moisture and tenderness to the blondies.
- Granulated sugar, 2 cups: Adds sweetness and helps create a delicate crumb texture.
- Large eggs, 4: Bind everything together and add fluffiness for that perfect chew.
- Lemon zest, 2 tablespoons: Packs an intense lemon aroma and flavor in every bite.
- Fresh lemon juice, 1/4 cup + 3 tablespoons: Delivers the iconic tartness both in the batter and glaze.
- All-purpose flour, 3 cups: Gives the blondies structure without weighing them down.
- Baking powder, 1 teaspoon: Ensures a light, airy texture by helping them rise just right.
- Salt, 1/2 teaspoon: Balances sweetness and heightens all the flavors beautifully.
- Powdered sugar, 2 cups: Used for the glaze to create a smooth, sweet finish with a citrus kick.
How to Make Lemon Blondies with Lemon Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure your blondies come out cleanly and keep their perfect shape.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and glossy. This step is crucial for dissolving the sugar and creating a luscious base for your batter.
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs, Zest, and Juice
Add your eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition to prevent lumps and promote an even texture. Next, stir in the fresh lemon zest and 1/4 cup of lemon juice. This combination infuses the blondies with that unmistakable bright and tangy lemon essence.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps distribute the leavening agent evenly, ensuring your blondies bake up perfectly without any uneven air pockets.
Step 5: Fold Dry Ingredients into Wet Mixture
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into your wet mixture just until combined. Be gentle to maintain the batter’s light texture. Overmixing here can lead to dense blondies, and we want the perfect balance of chewy and tender.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan and bake for 22 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the center is set but still moist, and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it. This ensures your blondies stay soft and fudgy inside.
Step 7: Cool and Glaze
Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan. While waiting, whisk together the powdered sugar and 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice until smooth. Spread this bright, tangy glaze evenly over the cooled blondies. Let it set before slicing into 16 squares for that perfect portion.
How to Serve Lemon Blondies with Lemon Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Lemon Blondies with Lemon Glaze Recipe even more, try sprinkling a little extra lemon zest or fine grated white chocolate on top. Fresh mint leaves or edible flowers can also add a whimsical and refreshing touch, perfect for spring or summer gatherings.
Side Dishes
Pair these lemon blondies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to soften the tartness just a touch. A cup of Earl Grey tea or lightly brewed green tea complements their citrusy brightness beautifully and rounds out the flavor experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve sliced Lemon Blondies with Lemon Glaze on a decorative platter topped with fresh berries or candied lemon slices. You can also cut them into bite-sized bars for a party or afternoon tea tray. Wrapping individual pieces in parchment and tying with twine makes them perfect for gifting!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your lemon blondies will stay fresh at room temperature for up to three days when stored in an airtight container. Keep the glaze protected by layering with parchment paper if stacking is necessary to avoid smudging that lovely finish.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the blondies after glazing. Wrap the entire pan with plastic wrap and then foil, or freeze individual squares by first freezing them on a baking sheet and then transferring to a zip-top bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months without losing that fresh lemon taste.
Reheating
To enjoy previously frozen lemon blondies, thaw at room temperature for a few hours. If you love your glaze a little warm, pop the bars in a low oven (around 275 degrees Fahrenheit) for 5 to 10 minutes, just don’t overheat or they might dry out.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, fresh lemon juice really shines in this Lemon Blondies with Lemon Glaze Recipe, providing a brighter, fresher citrus flavor and aroma that bottled juice often lacks.
What can I substitute for all-purpose flour?
If you want to make gluten-free lemon blondies, try a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend with xanthan gum. Keep the measurements the same, but be sure to monitor baking time closely as it might vary slightly.
How do I know when the blondies are done?
They’re perfectly baked when the edges start pulling away from the pan and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs, meaning they are cooked through but still tender inside.
Can I add other flavors or mix-ins?
Absolutely! Adding white chocolate chips, poppy seeds, or fresh raspberries can be wonderful additions. Just fold them gently into the batter before baking to maintain texture.
Is it necessary to glaze the blondies?
The lemon glaze is what truly sets this recipe apart by adding a sweet-tart finish that balances the rich, buttery blondies. But if you prefer a less sweet treat, they’re still delicious without it!
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like a batch of Lemon Blondies with Lemon Glaze Recipe to brighten your day and satisfy your sweet tooth with a refreshing citrus twist. Easy to make and impossible to stop eating, these blondies are a total crowd-pleaser that promises pure happiness in every bite. Give this recipe a try, and I guarantee it will become one of your favorites in no time!
Print
Lemon Blondies with Lemon Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Lemon Blondies are a bright and tangy twist on traditional blondies, featuring a moist and buttery base flavored with fresh lemon zest and juice. Topped with a smooth, zesty lemon glaze, they make a delightful, refreshing treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Blondie Batter
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Lemon Glaze
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated, creating a rich base for the batter.
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, whisking thoroughly after each addition to maintain a smooth, well-blended batter.
- Flavor with Lemon: Stir in the fresh lemon zest and 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice to infuse the batter with bright citrus flavor.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet lemon mixture, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter and keeping the blondies tender.
- Prepare to Bake: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top for even baking and an attractive finish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 22 to 25 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out with moist crumbs.
- Cool: Remove the blondies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan to set up properly before glazing.
- Make Glaze: While the blondies cool, whisk together the powdered sugar and 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice until smooth and pourable.
- Glaze and Slice: Spread the lemon glaze evenly over the cooled blondies. Let the glaze set before slicing into 16 squares for serving.
Notes
- For extra lemon flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon extract to the batter.
- Ensure the blondies are fully cooled before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting and sliding off.
- If you prefer a thicker glaze, reduce lemon juice slightly or add more powdered sugar.
- Store blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- These blondies can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw completely before glazing.
