Go Back
Lawrence D. Smith

Fresh Citrus Key Lime Brownies

Buttery, tender citrus brownies packed with key lime juice and zest, finished with a sweet key lime glaze for a bright, tangy dessert bar.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 24 Brownies
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

Brownies
  • 1 cup butter softened
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 6 large eggs
  • 6 tablespoons key lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons lime zest
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
Glaze
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons key lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon lime zest

Equipment

  • Electric mixer or hand mixer
  • 9×13-inch cake pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Microplane or fine zester
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula
  • Cooking spray
  • Parchment paper or aluminum foil, optional for easier removal

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Pan and Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13-inch cake pan with cooking spray. For easier removal, the pan may also be lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
  2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: Place the softened butter and sugar in the bowl of an electric mixer. Beat until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
  3. Add the Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition until fully incorporated before adding the next egg.
  4. Add the Lime: Mix in the key lime juice and lime zest until incorporated.
  5. Finish the Batter: Slowly add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing only until the ingredients are just combined.
  6. Fill the Pan: Pour the prepared batter into the greased 9×13-inch pan and spread it evenly.
  7. Bake the Brownies: Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
  8. Cool Completely: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the brownies to cool before adding the glaze.
  9. Make the Glaze: Combine the powdered sugar, key lime juice, and lime zest, mixing until the glaze is combined.
  10. Glaze the Brownies: Pour the key lime glaze over the cooled brownies and allow it to set before cutting the dessert into bars.

Notes

  • Fresh key limes are highly recommended because the recipe uses both juice and zest. Bottled key lime juice can be used if fresh key limes are unavailable.
  • If key limes cannot be found, regular limes can be used for the zest.
  • Line the 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil to make the brownies easier to lift out.
  • The batter can be prepared using either a stand mixer or a medium bowl with a hand mixer.
  • If you prefer to skip the glaze, finish the cooled brownies with a light dusting of powdered sugar.
  • Store cut brownies in an airtight container at room temperature and enjoy them within 1 to 2 days for the best quality.
  • An uncut pan of brownies wrapped in plastic can be kept at room temperature for up to 4 days.
  • To freeze the brownies, cool them completely without adding the glaze. Wrap them in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil and freeze. Thaw before glazing and cutting.