why make this recipe
Baked Lemon Poppy Seed Bars are a delightful treat that combines bright, fresh flavors with a tender texture. They’re simple to make and perfect for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying a quiet afternoon at home or hosting a gathering with friends. These bars are not only delicious but also clean and simple, making them a wonderful option for those who want a quick and satisfying dessert. Plus, the lemon and poppy seeds give them a unique twist that will impress anyone who takes a bite.
how to make Baked Lemon Poppy Seed Bars
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 2 eggs
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8×8-inch pan by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it well.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
- In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and poppy seeds. Mix them well.
- Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture until everything is just combined. Do not overmix.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 22 to 26 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Let the bars cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. If you like, add a glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
- Slice the bars and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
how to serve Baked Lemon Poppy Seed Bars
Baked Lemon Poppy Seed Bars are great on their own, but they can be served in various ways. You can dust them with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness or drizzle the lemon glaze on top for more flavor. These bars are fantastic paired with a cup of tea or coffee. They make a lovely addition to dessert trays or are perfect as a snack anytime.
how to store Baked Lemon Poppy Seed Bars
To keep your Baked Lemon Poppy Seed Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, place them in the refrigerator. They can last for a week or more when refrigerated. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. Just ensure they are well-wrapped or in a freezer-safe container.
tips to make Baked Lemon Poppy Seed Bars
- Ensure your butter is completely melted but not too hot when mixing it with the other ingredients.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter; this keeps the bars tender and soft.
- If you prefer a thicker bar, use a smaller pan, like a 7×7-inch pan, but adjust the baking time accordingly.
variation
You can easily switch up the flavors of these bars. Try adding blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist. You can also substitute almonds or walnuts for the poppy seeds if you want a different texture.
FAQs
Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A: Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser.
Q: How can I make the glaze?
A: Mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more sugar or lemon juice as needed.
Q: Can I make these bars ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! These bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to serve.
Baked Lemon Poppy Seed Bars
- Total Time: 41
- Yield: 16 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful bars combining bright lemon flavors and tender texture, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 2 eggs
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp lemon juice for glaze
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8-inch pan by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and poppy seeds, then mix well.
- Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined; do not overmix.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 22 to 26 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Let the bars cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Optionally, add a glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
- Slice the bars and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or refrigerate longer.
Notes
For a thicker bar, use a smaller pan and adjust baking time. Serve dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with glaze.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 26
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American