Sunshine Squares: The Best Lemon Brownies with a Zesty Glaze! 🍋☀️🍰
Craving a burst of citrus sunshine in a chewy, brownie-like bar? Look no further! These Lemon Brownies are incredibly easy to make, thanks to the clever use of cake mix and instant pudding, resulting in a wonderfully moist and flavorful treat. The bright lemon flavor is amplified by fresh lemon juice and zest, and the final drizzle of tangy lemon glaze adds the perfect sweet and zesty finish. These “Sunshine Squares” are guaranteed to brighten your day with every delicious bite!
Ingredients:
15.25 ounces yellow cake mix (such as Betty Crocker) (the simple base for our lemony goodness!)
3.4 ounces lemon instant pudding mix (for extra lemon flavor and a super moist texture!)
⅓ cup fresh lemon juice (the key to that bright, tangy zing!)
3 large eggs (binding and adding richness)
1 teaspoon lemon zest (packing an extra punch of aromatic lemon flavor!)
Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar (for that smooth, sweet finish)
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (plus more for desired drizzling consistency!)
Lemon zest for garnish (optional, for an extra visual and aromatic flourish!)
Let’s Bake Some Zesty Squares!
Step 1: Preheat and Prep for Lemon Perfection!
Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This “sling” will make it super easy to lift the brownies out later.
Spray the parchment paper with non-stick cooking spray for extra insurance against sticking.
Preheat your oven to a steady 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Whip Up the Bright Brownie Batter!
In a medium mixing bowl, grab your electric hand mixer and combine the dry yellow cake mix, the dry lemon instant pudding mix, the fresh lemon juice, the large eggs, and that fragrant lemon zest.
Beat everything together until just combined and smooth. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher brownies. The batter will be fairly thick.
Step 3: Bake Until Golden and Just Set!
Pour the bright yellow batter evenly into your prepared 8-inch square baking pan and spread it out smoothly with a spatula.
Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 22-24 minutes. The brownies are ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only moist crumbs clinging to it. You don’t want to see any wet batter.
Step 4: Cool Down for Glazing Glory!
Remove the pan of lemon brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This allows them to set up a bit before you lift them out.
Using the parchment paper overhang, carefully lift the brownies out of the pan and place them on a wire rack to cool completely. This is crucial before you add the glaze, as warm brownies will melt it right off!
Step 5: Drizzle on the Zesty Finish!
Once the lemon brownies are completely cool, it’s time for that delicious glaze! In a separate small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice until you have a smooth glaze.
If the glaze is too thick, add a tiny bit more lemon juice, a teaspoon at a time, until it reaches your desired drizzling consistency.
Drizzle the bright lemon glaze evenly over the cooled lemon brownies.
For an extra pop of color and aroma, sprinkle some additional lemon zest over the wet glaze before it sets.
Step 6: Slice, Serve, and Enjoy the Sunshine!
Once the glaze has set slightly, slice the lemon brownies into squares (you should get about 12 servings from an 8-inch pan).
Serve these delightful Sunshine Squares and watch everyone’s face light up with the bright lemon flavor! They’re perfect for a snack, dessert, or a cheerful addition to any gathering.
Tips for Lemon Brownie Perfection:
Fresh Lemon Juice and Zest are Key: They provide the most vibrant and authentic lemon flavor. Don’t skimp on them!
Don’t Overbake: Overbaking will result in dry brownies. Aim for just set with moist crumbs.
Cool Completely Before Glazing: This ensures the glaze doesn’t melt and creates a beautiful finish.
Adjust Glaze Consistency: Add lemon juice gradually to the powdered sugar until you reach your preferred drizzling consistency.
Use Quality Cake Mix and Pudding: While the recipe is simple, using good quality mixes will enhance the overall flavor.
Variations for Your Citrus Cravings:
Lime Brownies: Substitute lime cake mix, lime pudding, lime juice, and lime zest for a zesty lime version.
Orange Brownies: Use orange cake mix, orange pudding, orange juice, and orange zest for a bright orange treat.
Add White Chocolate Chips: Stir in some white chocolate chips into the batter for extra sweetness and creaminess.
Top with Cream Cheese Frosting: For an even more decadent treat, skip the glaze and top with a tangy cream cheese frosting.
These Best Lemon Brownies are a delightful twist on a classic, offering a burst of sunshine in every chewy bite. The ease of using cake mix and pudding combined with the bright lemon flavor makes them a guaranteed winner! Enjoy these delightful Sunshine Squares! 🍋☀️🍰