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Lemon Poppyseed Bars Recipe

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3.9 from 4 reviews

These Lemon Poppyseed Bars are a delightful treat combining a buttery, tender base with a bright lemon flavor and crunchy poppyseeds, topped off with a tangy lemon glaze. Perfect for a refreshing dessert or afternoon snack, these bars are easy to make and sure to impress with their vibrant, zesty taste and sweet glaze finish.

Ingredients

For the Bars:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 3/4 cup light brown sugar (packed)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 & 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 & 1/2 teaspoons poppyseeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • Pinch of fine sea salt

For the Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 – 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9 inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, using an electric hand mixer, cream together the softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar for about 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
  3. Add Eggs and Flavorings: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to fully combine. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until evenly incorporated.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, poppy seeds, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined with no dry streaks. Avoid overmixing for a tender texture.
  5. Press Dough and Bake: Evenly press the dough into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the top is no longer moist. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
  6. Cool Bars: Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
  7. Prepare Lemon Glaze: While the bars cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice (start with 1 tablespoon), and lemon zest until smooth. Adjust lemon juice to get a thick yet pourable consistency.
  8. Glaze the Bars: Pour the lemon glaze evenly over the cooled bars. Use an offset spatula to smooth the glaze over the entire surface. Allow the glaze to set completely at room temperature.
  9. Serve: Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars out of the pan. Cut them into 9 squares and serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container.

Notes

  • Do not overmix the batter once the flour is added to keep the bars tender and soft.
  • Ensure the bars are completely cool before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting.
  • You can adjust the amount of lemon juice in the glaze to achieve your preferred tartness and consistency.
  • For easier cleanup and removal, make sure to line the pan with parchment paper with some overhang.
  • Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.

Find it online: https://marthatasty.com/lemon-poppyseed-bars-recipe/