Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bars Recipe for Every Occasion
Hey y’all! If you’re searching for a treat that’s both refreshing and indulgent, look no further than Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bars. These delightful bars blend tangy lemon with the subtle crunch of poppy seeds, making them a hit at any gathering. Perfect for brunch, dessert, or a midday snack, these bars will surely become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- Bright, zesty flavor that adds a refreshing twist to any occasion.
- Easy-to-follow recipe with simple ingredients you likely already have.
- Perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Great for making ahead and serving at gatherings.
- Versatile recipe with room for creativity and variations.
Ingredients for Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bars
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 2-3 tablespoons lemon juice (for glaze)
Directions
Prepare the Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, one at a time, whisking until fully combined. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
Mix in Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the flour, salt, and poppy seeds. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Bake the Bars
Grease an 8×8 inch baking pan and pour the batter evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool completely before glazing.
Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar and lemon juice, mixing until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled bars.
Notes
- For an extra lemony flavor, add an additional teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter. How to zest a lemon.
- Use fresh lemons for the best taste. Bottled lemon juice may alter the flavor.
- Let the bars cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting.
Variations
- Orange Poppy Seed Bars: Substitute lemon zest and juice with orange for a sweet twist.
- Almond Lemon Bars: Add 1 teaspoon of almond extract for a nutty flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of regular flour.
Required Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- 8×8 inch baking pan
- Oven
Storage Instructions
Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the bars for up to 3 months and thaw before serving.
Suggested Pairings
Enjoy these bars with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. They also pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream for a refreshing dessert.
Pro Tips
- Measure your flour accurately using the spoon and level method for best results. Learn more about measuring flour.
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth batter.
- Let the glaze set for at least 15 minutes before slicing the bars to prevent smudging.
FAQ
- Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch. - How can I tell if the bars are done?
The edges should be slightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. - What if I don’t have poppy seeds?
You can omit them or substitute with chia seeds for a different texture.
