Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for ensuring even baking and a perfectly moist texture. While the oven is heating, prepare an 8x8 inch baking pan. You can either grease it generously with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang on the sides for easy removal. Lining the pan is especially helpful if you want to ensure the brownies come out cleanly and easily. Set the prepared pan aside.

Step 2: Cream Butter, Sugar, and Lemon Zest

In a large mixing bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment), cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and lemon zest. Beat these ingredients until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is essential because it incorporates air into the batter, resulting in a lighter and more tender brownie. The lemon zest not only adds flavor but also helps to release the natural oils, enhancing the overall aroma of the brownies.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Lemon Juice

Add the eggs, one at a time, to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix well after each addition to ensure each egg is fully incorporated. This gradual addition prevents the mixture from curdling. After the eggs are mixed in, add the tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. The lemon juice adds a necessary tang that balances the sweetness of the brownies.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. This step is important because it evenly distributes the baking powder throughout the flour, ensuring that the brownies rise properly. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough brownies. The goal is to mix until there are no visible streaks of flour, but the batter is still slightly lumpy.

Step 5: Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it into an even layer. This ensures that the brownies bake evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the brownies comes out clean. Keep a close eye on the brownies during the last few minutes of baking to prevent them from overbaking. Overbaked brownies will be dry and crumbly.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

While the brownies are cooling, prepare the lemon glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. The glaze should be thick but pourable. If it's too thick, add a tiny amount of lemon juice until you reach the desired consistency.

Step 7: Glaze and Cool

Once the brownies have cooled for about 10-15 minutes, pour the lemon glaze over the top, spreading it evenly to coat. The slight warmth of the brownies will help the glaze to melt and set slightly. Allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing. This is crucial for preventing them from crumbling.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

Once the brownies are completely cool, slice them into 16 squares. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each slice for neat and even squares. Serve and enjoy the tangy, delicious flavor of your Lemon Bliss Brownies!