Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bars

A delicious treat, Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bars are perfect for any occasion. These bars combine a soft, brownie-like texture with a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The addition of poppy seeds not only enhances the taste but also adds a lovely crunch. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging yourself, these bars will impress with their lightness and zesty flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, you can whip up these bars in no time.
• Bright Flavor: The lemon brings a refreshing zing that perfectly complements the sweetness, making each bite enjoyable.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for parties, picnics, or just as a sweet snack at home, these bars suit any occasion.
• Unique Texture: The chewy yet soft consistency offers a delightful contrast to the glaze on top.
• Make Ahead Option: These bars can be made ahead and stored in the fridge, making them great for meal prep or last-minute gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bars, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8 square pan
• Non-stick spray or parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Hand mixer (optional)
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• 8×8 square pan: The right size ensures even baking for your lemon bars.
• Mixing bowl: A good-sized bowl allows ample space to mix ingredients without spills.
• Hand mixer: While optional, it makes mixing easier and faster for achieving a smooth batter.

Ingredients

A soft and brownie-like lemon bar is the perfect combination of sweet and sour with the addition of poppy seeds.

For the Bars

• 1/2 cup butter (softened)
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 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

How to Make Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Prepare an 8×8 square pan by spraying it with non-stick spray or lining it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, combine the softened butter, sugar, eggs, lemon juice, salt, and zest.
2. You can use a hand mixer or mix by hand until well combined.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the mixture and stir until just combined.
2. Gently fold in the poppy seeds by hand to maintain their texture.

Step 4: Bake

1. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it into an even layer.
2. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until the edges are brown and the middle is set. Avoid overbaking for that brownie-like texture.
3. Let it cool completely in the pan.

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze

1. While your lemon poppy seed bars cool, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest until smooth.

Step 6: Glaze & Serve

1. Once cooled, pour the glaze over your bars and spread it evenly.
2. Cut into squares and serve fresh! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Enjoy your delightful Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bars!

How to Serve Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bars

Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just indulging yourself, these bars pair well with different accompaniments.

With Fresh Berries

• Strawberries: Sliced strawberries add a sweet and juicy contrast to the tangy lemon bars.
• Raspberries: The tartness of raspberries complements the sweetness of the glaze perfectly.

With Whipped Cream

• Sweetened Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream enhances the dessert’s creaminess and adds richness.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Infuse your whipped cream with vanilla or lemon zest for an extra flavor kick.

With Tea or Coffee

• Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea balances the sweet and sour flavors beautifully.
• Espresso: The boldness of espresso provides a nice counterpoint to the sweetness of the bars.

As a Brunch Treat

• Breakfast Spread: Serve these bars alongside muffins, scones, and fresh fruit for a delightful brunch spread.
• Light Snack: They make for an easy, on-the-go snack that can brighten your morning.

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How to Perfect Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bars

Achieving the perfect Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bars is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure success:

• Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh lemon juice and zest yield the best flavor compared to bottled alternatives.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the texture soft and brownie-like.
• Check Doneness: Keep an eye on baking time; a toothpick should come out clean but moist when done.
• Cool Completely: Allow bars to cool completely before glazing for a neater finish.

Best Side Dishes for Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bars

Pairing side dishes with Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bars can elevate your dessert experience. Consider these options:

1. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balance to the sweetness.
2. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like Brie or Gouda for a savory contrast.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy side.
4. Savory Muffins: Herb or cheese muffins complement the sweet flavors beautifully.
5. Cucumber Sandwiches: Light cucumber sandwiches provide a refreshing bite alongside rich desserts.
6. Mini Quiches: These savory bites offer a satisfying contrast to the sweet bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bars can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the zest: Not using fresh lemon zest can make your bars lack flavor. Always include zest for that extra zing.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can result in tough bars. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using incorrect measurements can affect the outcome. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy.
• Ignoring baking time: Overbaking can dry out your bars. Keep an eye on them and check for doneness around 18 minutes.
• Skipping the glaze: The glaze adds sweetness and moisture. Don’t skip this step, as it elevates the overall flavor profile.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bars in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm bars for about 5-10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat one bar at a time on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bars:

Can I use other types of citrus?

Yes! You can replace lemon juice with lime or orange juice for a different flavor profile.

How do I know when my bars are done?

The edges should be lightly browned, and the center should be set but slightly soft, similar to brownies.

Can I add more poppy seeds?

Absolutely! Feel free to increase the amount of poppy seeds if you enjoy their flavor and texture.

Why did my bars come out dry?

This could happen due to overbaking or measuring too much flour. Be sure to check frequently while baking.

Final Thoughts

These Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bars are not only delightful but also versatile. You can tweak them by adding nuts or adjusting the sweetness level. Their balance of sweet and sour makes them perfect for any occasion. Try making these bars today, and enjoy their refreshing taste!

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Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bars

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• Author: Tina
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the refreshing taste of Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bars, a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweetness and tanginess. These bars feature a soft, brownie-like texture complemented by the crunch of poppy seeds, making them an irresistible addition to any gathering or a sweet indulgence for yourself. The zesty lemon glaze adds an extra layer of flavor, ensuring each bite is bursting with brightness.

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Ingredients

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• 1/2 cup butter (softened)
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Zest from 1/2 lemon
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tablespoon poppy seeds
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for glaze)
• Zest from 1/2 lemon (for glaze)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare an 8×8 square pan with non-stick spray or parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, sugar, eggs, lemon juice, salt, and zest until well mixed.
3. Gradually add flour and mix until just combined; gently fold in poppy seeds.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 18-22 minutes until set.
5. Cool completely before glazing with a mixture of powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest.
6. Cut into squares and enjoy!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar (40g)
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 70mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 30mg