Description
These Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bars are a delightful citrusy treat featuring a buttery, tender crumb speckled with crunchy poppy seeds and topped with a zesty lemon glaze. Perfect for a refreshing dessert or snack, they offer a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors with a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Bar Ingredients
- 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
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 prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, sugar, eggs, lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and lemon zest. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet mixture, folding it in gently. Then fold in the poppy seeds carefully, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- Bake the Bars: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and spread it out smoothly. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and the center is set but still slightly soft. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely in the pan.
- Prepare the Lemon Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until the glaze is smooth and lump-free.
- Glaze and Serve: Pour the prepared lemon glaze evenly over the cooled bars. Let the glaze set slightly before cutting into squares. Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the bars tender.
- Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the brightest lemon flavor.
- Let the bars cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
