If you are on the hunt for a bright and chewy treat that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors, these Lemon Blondies with Lemon Glaze Recipe are destined to become your new favorite. Imagine soft, buttery blondies infused with the sunny zest of fresh lemons and topped with a luscious lemon glaze that adds just the right touch of sweetness and sparkle. These bars are refreshingly vibrant yet satisfyingly rich, making every bite a delightful celebration of citrus goodness. Whether you’re craving a simple afternoon pick-me-up or a stunning dessert to wow your guests, this recipe covers it all with ease and charm.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, everyday ingredients is key to making these lemon blondies truly shine. Each component plays a crucial role in bringing out the light texture, creamy richness, and that unmistakably zesty lemon flavor that makes this treat unforgettable.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup melted): Adds a rich, creamy base that keeps the blondies tender and moist.
- Granulated sugar (2 cups): Provides the perfect level of sweetness and helps create a slightly crisp top.
- Large eggs (4): Bind everything together and give the bars structure while keeping them soft.
- Lemon zest (2 tablespoons): Packs an intense burst of fresh lemon flavor in every bite.
- Fresh lemon juice (1/4 cup plus 3 tablespoons more for glaze): Brightens the entire dessert with a refreshing tang.
- All-purpose flour (3 cups): The sturdy foundation to build that chewy blondie texture.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps the blondies rise just enough to keep them tender and airy.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
- Powdered sugar (2 cups for glaze): Creates a smooth, sweet lemon glaze that finishes the blondies with glossy perfection.
How to Make Lemon Blondies with Lemon Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This ensures your blondies won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and shimmering. Then, add the eggs one at a time, stirring well after each addition so they fully incorporate and create a velvety batter.
Step 3: Infuse with Lemon
Stir in your fresh lemon zest and 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice. This step infuses the batter with that unmistakable bright lemon flavor which will shine through beautifully after baking.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. These dry ingredients ensure your blondies bake up with a lovely, tender crumb and just a hint of lift.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet lemon mixture. Be gentle here—mix just until combined to keep your blondies soft and fluffy rather than dense and tough.
Step 6: Bake Your Batter
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking pan. Place it in the oven and bake for 22 to 25 minutes. You’re looking for a set center and a toothpick that comes out with a few moist crumbs, signaling perfect doneness.
Step 7: Cool and Glaze
Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, whisk together powdered sugar and 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice to create a glossy glaze. Spread this evenly over the bars and let it set before slicing into 16 luscious squares.
How to Serve Lemon Blondies with Lemon Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a little extra love on top is always fun! Fresh lemon slices or a sprinkle of finely grated lemon zest can brighten each serving. For an elegant touch, dust lightly with powdered sugar or scatter some edible flowers over the glaze.
Side Dishes
These lemon blondies are amazing on their own, but pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate the experience to dessert perfection. Serve alongside fresh berries for a refreshing fruity hint that complements the lemon notes beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion or party, arrange the blondies on a pretty platter garnished with mint leaves and lemon slices. You could also drizzle a little extra lemon glaze artistically over each square or serve them in decorative cupcake liners for a charming, portable treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your baked lemon blondies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their soft texture and vibrant lemon flavor without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these treats later, you can freeze unglazed lemon blondies for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge before adding the lemon glaze.
Reheating
To bring back their fresh-baked charm, warm leftover lemon blondies in the microwave for about 15 seconds. This quick warming softens the texture and revives the buttery lemon essence, making every bite taste like it just came out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While fresh lemon juice gives the brightest and most authentic flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Just keep in mind fresh juice has a fresher zest and brighter citrus notes that really elevate this recipe.
How do I know when the blondies are done baking?
Your blondies are perfectly baked when the center is set but still moist, and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft and chewy.
Can I make the lemon glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! The lemon glaze can be mixed up a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Give it a good stir before spreading it over cooled blondies for a smooth finish.
What makes these blondies different from regular lemon bars?
These lemon blondies have a chewy, buttery base similar to traditional blondies, with a bold lemon flavor folded right into the batter, topped with a zesty glaze. Lemon bars typically have a shortbread crust and a more custardy lemon layer, whereas these feel more like a cake-bar hybrid.
Can I add poppy seeds or nuts to this recipe?
Yes! Adding about 1-2 tablespoons of poppy seeds or chopped nuts like pecans or almonds can add delightful texture and a nutty contrast to the bright lemon flavor. Just fold them in with the dry ingredients before baking.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the combination of buttery blondies and fresh lemon glaze, and this Lemon Blondies with Lemon Glaze Recipe brings that magic to your kitchen with each batch you bake. They are simple to make, bursting with sunshiney lemon flavor, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. I promise once you try them, they’ll become a beloved staple in your dessert rotation. So go ahead, grab those lemons, and treat yourself to these irresistibly delicious bars!
Print
Lemon Blondies with Lemon Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Lemon Blondies offer a delightful citrus twist on the classic blondie bar, combining the rich buttery flavor with bright lemon zest and juice. Topped with a tangy lemon glaze, they’re perfect for a refreshing dessert or snack, baked to a moist and tender finish.
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 and prepare pan: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the blondies.
- Combine butter and sugar: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and combined.
- Add eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to create a smooth batter.
- Mix in lemon flavors: Stir in the lemon zest and 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice to infuse the batter with bright citrus flavor.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning.
- Fold dry into wet: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet lemon mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix to maintain a tender texture.
- Spread batter: Evenly spread the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the surface for even baking.
- Bake the blondies: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs but no raw batter.
- Cool completely: Remove from the oven and let the blondies cool fully in the pan to set their structure before glazing.
- Prepare and apply glaze: Whisk together the powdered sugar and 3 tablespoons lemon juice until smooth. Spread this lemon glaze evenly over the cooled blondies.
- Set glaze and serve: Allow the glaze to set before slicing into 16 squares for serving. Enjoy your zesty lemon blondies!
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor and brightness.
- Don’t overbake; blondies should remain moist with a tender crumb.
- The glaze adds a tangy sweetness that perfectly balances the rich batter.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- These blondies freeze well either glazed or unglazed; thaw before serving.
