Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bars Recipe

These Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bars are the perfect balance of tangy and sweet, with a moist, buttery texture and a refreshing citrus flavor. The poppy seeds add a slight crunch, while the sweet lemon glaze takes them to the next level. If you’re a fan of lemon desserts, these bars are a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright & Citrusy – The fresh lemon flavor makes these bars a refreshing treat.
• Soft & Moist – A tender, cake-like texture that melts in your mouth.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and quick prep time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for brunch, dessert, or as an afternoon snack.
• Customizable – You can adjust the sweetness or add extra citrus zest for more zing.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Butter
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Lemon juice and zest
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Poppy seeds
• Milk
• Powdered sugar (for the glaze)

Directions

1. Preheat & Prepare – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients – Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in lemon juice and zest.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and poppy seeds.
4. Make the Batter – Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk. Stir until just combined.
5. Bake – Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for about 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Prepare the Glaze – Whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
7. Glaze & Cool – Let the bars cool for about 10 minutes, then drizzle the glaze over the top. Allow to set before slicing.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 bars
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Extra Citrus Kick – Add orange zest along with the lemon zest.
• Nutty Flavor – Stir in chopped almonds or walnuts for extra texture.
• Cream Cheese Glaze – Replace part of the powdered sugar with cream cheese for a richer topping.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

Storage & Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to a week.
• Freezing: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Let frozen bars thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.

FAQs

How do I get the best lemon flavor?

Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the most vibrant flavor.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is best, but bottled lemon juice will work in a pinch.

Why are my bars dry?

Overbaking can dry out the bars. Check for doneness around 20 minutes.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative and use almond or oat milk.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, but it may affect the texture. Try reducing the sugar slightly and adding more lemon zest.

What can I use instead of poppy seeds?

Chia seeds or finely chopped nuts can be a good substitute.

How do I make the glaze thicker?

Add more powdered sugar for a thicker consistency.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger baking dish and adjust baking time as needed.

What if my glaze is too runny?

Add more powdered sugar, a little at a time, until it thickens.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Bake and glaze them a day ahead, then store in an airtight container.

Conclusion

These Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Bars are a simple yet delightful treat, perfect for any occasion. With their bright citrus flavor and soft, moist texture, they’re sure to become a favorite. Give them a try, and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and tangy goodness!

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