Description
These Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bars are the perfect balance of tangy and sweet, offering a delightful treat that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. The bright lemon flavor combined with the delicate crunch of poppy seeds creates a symphony of textures and tastes in every bite. Ideal for brunch, afternoon tea, or a simple dessert, these bars will brighten any day.
Ingredients:
For the Bars:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 tablespoons poppy seeds
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This ensures the bars don’t stick and makes removal easy.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. The melted butter helps create a tender crumb, while the combination of granulated and brown sugar adds depth of flavor.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Extracts: Add the eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the sugar and butter mixture. Whisk until fully combined. Ensure the eggs are well incorporated for a smooth batter.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and poppy seeds. This step ensures the baking powder is evenly distributed, leading to a consistent rise.
Step 5: Make the Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. It’s crucial not to overmix the batter; doing so can result in tough bars.
Step 6: Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 22-28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep a close watch on the bars to prevent over-baking.
Step 7: Cool: Let the bars cool completely in the pan before adding the glaze. This prevents the glaze from melting and ensures a clean slice.
Step 8: Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth. Adjust the lemon juice to achieve the desired consistency.
Step 9: Glaze the Bars: Drizzle or spread the glaze over the cooled bars. Let it sit for about 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the glaze to firm up, making the bars easier to handle.
Step 10: Serve & Enjoy! Cut into squares and enjoy your tangy, sweet treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bright and Refreshing Flavor: The zesty lemon is a delightful pick-me-up.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, anyone can bake these bars.
- Perfect Texture: The bars are moist and tender with a slight crunch from the poppy seeds.
- Versatile: Great for parties, snacks, or desserts.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves the combination of lemon and sweetness.
Presentation Suggestions:
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top of the glazed bars adds an elegant touch.
- Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh raspberries or blueberries to complement the lemon flavor.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream makes these bars even more indulgent.
- Lemon Wedges: Garnish with lemon wedges to emphasize the citrus flavor.
- Layered Presentation: Arrange the bars on a tiered serving platter for a visually appealing display.
Tips:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better emulsification, resulting in a smoother batter.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to tough bars. Mix until just combined.
- Adjust Lemon Flavor: For a more intense lemon flavor, increase the amount of lemon zest in both the bars and the glaze.
- Parchment Paper is Key: Lining your baking pan with parchment paper ensures easy removal and clean cuts.
- Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container to maintain their moisture and flavor.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 22-28 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour (including cooling and glazing)
Cooking Grade: EASY
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.)
- Calories: Approximately 250 per bar
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 20g
Conclusion
These Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bars are a testament to the fact that simple recipes can yield extraordinary results. Their bright, citrusy flavor and tender texture make them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or simply looking for a delightful dessert, these bars are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the delightful symphony of flavors in every bite!
Q&A About This Recipe
Q1: Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice?
A1: While fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. However, be aware that the flavor won’t be as vibrant. If using bottled juice, consider adding a bit more lemon zest to compensate.
Q2: How can I make these bars gluten-free?
A2: To make these bars gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure to use a blend that contains xanthan gum or add 1/2 teaspoon of xanthan gum to the dry ingredients. This will help provide the necessary structure to the bars.
Q3: What if I don’t have poppy seeds? Can I leave them out?
A3: Yes, you can certainly leave out the poppy seeds if you don’t have them. The bars will still be delicious, though they will lack the slight crunch and visual appeal that poppy seeds provide. You could also substitute with other seeds, like chia seeds, for a similar texture.
Q4: How do I prevent the bars from becoming too brown on the edges?
A4: To prevent the edges from browning too quickly, you can tent the baking pan with aluminum foil halfway through the baking time. This will shield the edges from direct heat while allowing the center to cook thoroughly.
Q5: Can I freeze these bars?
A5: Yes, these bars freeze well! Allow the bars to cool completely after baking, then cut them into individual squares. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature, and then glaze as directed before serving. You can also freeze them unglazed and glaze them after thawing for the freshest flavor.
