Description
Delight in these refreshing Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bars, featuring a tender buttery base infused with zesty lemon and crunchy poppy seeds, topped with a sweet and tangy lemon glaze. Perfect for a light dessert or a bright snack, these bars combine vibrant citrus flavors with a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Bars
- 1/2 cup butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Zest from 1/2 lemon
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tablespoon poppy seeds
For the Glaze
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Zest from 1/2 lemon
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch square baking pan with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the bars after baking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the softened butter and sugar, then add the eggs, lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and lemon zest. Mix thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour into the wet mixture, stirring gently. Fold in the poppy seeds carefully just until everything is combined to maintain a tender texture.
- Bake the Bars: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and the center is set but still slightly soft. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
- Prepare the Glaze: While the bars are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until you achieve a smooth, pourable glaze.
- Glaze and Serve: Once the bars have cooled completely, pour the lemon glaze evenly over the top. Let the glaze set slightly before cutting the bars into squares. Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a stronger lemon flavor, use fresh, organic lemons for both juice and zest.
- Ensure the bars are fully cooled before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting off.
- Parchment lining helps in easy removal, resulting in cleaner cuts.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- You can substitute poppy seeds with chia seeds for a different texture and similar crunch.
