Description
These Best Lemon Brownies combine the moist, rich texture of traditional brownies with a bright, citrusy lemon flavor. Made using yellow cake mix and lemon instant pudding, they’re simple to prepare and baked to perfection with a tangy lemon glaze on top for an extra burst of fresh flavor—perfect for a refreshing twist on a classic treat.
Ingredients
Brownie Ingredients
- 15.25 ounces yellow cake mix (e.g., Betty Crocker)
- 3.4 ounces lemon instant pudding mix
- 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Glaze Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (plus more if needed for consistency)
- Lemon zest for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper and spray with non-stick cooking spray to ensure the brownies can be easily lifted out after baking.
- Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking.
- Mix the batter: In a medium mixing bowl, use an electric hand mixer to combine the yellow cake mix, lemon instant pudding mix, fresh lemon juice, eggs, and lemon zest until smooth and well incorporated.
- Pour and spread the batter: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and use a spatula to spread it evenly across the pan for uniform baking.
- Bake the brownies: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 22-24 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just moist crumbs—no wet batter.
- Cool the brownies: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, carefully lift the brownies out using the edges of the parchment paper and place them on a cooling rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk the powdered sugar with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice until smooth. Add additional lemon juice a few drops at a time if a thinner glaze consistency is desired.
- Glaze and garnish: Once the brownies are completely cooled, slice into squares, drizzle the lemon glaze over each piece, and sprinkle with lemon zest if desired for a decorative and flavorful touch.
Notes
- Using parchment paper and non-stick spray helps lift the brownies out easily without breaking.
- Be careful not to overbake; check with a toothpick at 22 minutes to avoid dryness.
- Adjust glaze consistency with lemon juice to suit your preference for thickness.
- Fresh lemon zest in both batter and glaze intensifies the lemon flavor.
- These brownies are best served at room temperature after the glaze sets.
