Homemade Lemonies offer a delightful fusion of tangy lemon flavor and the beloved chewiness of brownies. Perfect for lemon enthusiasts and dessert lovers alike, these bars are easy to make and guaranteed to brighten any occasion. Join us as we delve into the steps to create these zesty treats, from preparing the batter to adding a sweet lemon glaze.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make Homemade Lemonies:
For the Lemonies:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Glaze:
- 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, optional
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool:
- Allow the Lemonies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Prepare the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract (if using) until smooth and drizzling consistency.
- Glaze the Lemonies:
- Once cooled, drizzle the glaze evenly over the Lemonies. Allow the glaze to set for about 15-20 minutes.
- Slice and Serve:
- Lift the Lemonies out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy the tangy sweetness!
Cooking Tips
- Zesting Lemons: Use a microplane or fine grater to zest the lemons, being careful to avoid the bitter white pith.
- Room Temperature Eggs: Allow the eggs to come to room temperature before mixing to ensure even incorporation and better texture.
- Adjusting Lemon Flavor: Adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest in the glaze to suit your taste preferences for more or less tanginess.
Variations
Lemon Blueberry Lemonies:
- Gently fold in 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries into the batter before baking for a burst of fruity flavor.
Gluten-Free Lemonies:
- Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Nutty Lemonies:
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts such as almonds or walnuts to the batter for added texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Homemade Lemonies are delicious served:
- Warm with Ice Cream: Serve a warm Lemonie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures.
- With Tea or Coffee: Enjoy a square of Lemonie alongside your favorite hot beverage for a cozy treat.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but adjust the amount of additional salt in the recipe accordingly.
2. How should I store leftover Lemonies?
Store leftover Lemonies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
3. Can I freeze Lemonies?
Yes, you can freeze Lemonies without the glaze. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and glaze before serving.
Homemade Lemonies are a delightful twist on traditional brownies, offering a burst of lemony flavor in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, these bars are sure to impress with their tangy zest and chewy texture. Enjoy the process of making and savoring these Lemonies, and share them with family and friends to brighten their day.
