Sweet Baked Life

Pure pucker power! One bite of these zingy Lemonhead Lemonies and you’ll be hooked! And what is a lemonie you ask? Well, it’s like a rich decadent brownie but instead of chocolate you use fresh lemons. Some people even call them lemon brownies!

Ever hear of them?

I had actually never heard of these tangy treats before until a couple of weeks ago. You see, one of my co-workers sent me an email with a recipe attached for lemon brownies. She said this dessert sounded like something I would enjoy and asked if I would consider baking these bars for her.

Well, when have I ever turned down making something for someone, especially if it includes lemon?

That would be never?

I quickly read through the recipe, which sounded easy and interesting. I was astonished that I had never come across this wonderful creation before. Since if you know me, you know how I love me some lemons. This I thought would be a match made in heaven.

Then as I imagined what these bars would taste like, the brownie like texture only in a citrus version, I immediately thought of incorporating Lemonhead candies. Just the thought of the light sweet base along with an extra crunch of tartness bursting with every bite just about drove me crazy. Because for me, nothing can be too lemony!

These Lemonhead Lemonies start with a soft lemon base which are then smothered with a lemony glaze and topped with crushed Lemonhead candies. And yes, they are super easy to make — which is always a plus in my book.

Need I say more?

These were definitely a dream come true for me! And for my co-worker, she loved these sweet and tart treats as well — she enjoyed passing them out to everyone who walked by her office! They are great for an afternoon sugar fix or perfect for a picnic or after dinner with a cup of coffee. My hubby also raved about them, so you know they are a keeper!

Lemonhead Lemonies

1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1-1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
4 large eggs
4 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 teaspoons lemon zest

Heat your oven to 350 degrees. Line a 9×13-inch pan with aluminum foil then lightly butter and set aside.

In a large bowl of an electric stand mixer with the paddle attachment mix the flour, sugar, salt and butter on low-speed mix until just combined.

In a small bowl, add the eggs, lemon juice and lemon zest and whisk until combined. Then add to the large bowl and mix on low-speed until smooth.

Pour mixture into prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes, the edges will be slightly browned. Cool completely on a wire rack before you top with the glaze.

For the glaze:
1 cup confectioners sugar
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
Garnish: 1/2 cup crushed Lemonhead candies

Mix the sugar and lemon juice until it reaches the consistency you like. If you like thicker use more confectioners sugar, if you like thinner use more lemon juice. Add the lemon zest and stir, then pour over the cooled lemonies and spread with a spatula. Sprinkle the top with the crushed Lemonhead candies. When completely set, using the sides of the aluminum foil, lift the lemonies out of the pan and remove foil. Cut into squares. Store in an airtight container (if they last that long).

Yep, I’ve definitely got a crush on these Lemonhead Lemonies! Now these candied bars I will make, eat and repeat over and over again! And I hope you will too!

 

{recipe adapted from Rita’s Recipes}