If you’re a fan of zesty citrus desserts, these Mouthwatering Lemon Poppy Seed Bars will quickly become your new favorite! With a buttery crust, a bright lemon filling, and the added crunch of poppy seeds, these bars strike the perfect balance of sweet and tart. They’re ideal for spring gatherings, potlucks, or just when you need a refreshing treat. Simple to make and utterly delicious, let’s dive into this lemony delight!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients for Lemon Poppy Seed Bars
- Instructions for Lemon Poppy Seed Bars
- Tips for the Perfect Lemon Bars
- Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients for Lemon Poppy Seed Bars
For the Crust:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Lemon Filling:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
For the Topping:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Instructions for Lemon Poppy Seed Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the flour and salt, and mix until the mixture forms a dough.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Filling
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until well combined and slightly frothy.
- Add the flour, baking powder, lemon juice, lemon zest, and poppy seeds. Whisk until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Pour the lemon mixture over the warm crust, spreading it evenly.
Step 3: Bake the Bars
- Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and no longer jiggles when gently shaken.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan, then use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out.
Step 4: Dust and Serve
- Once cooled, dust the bars with powdered sugar if desired. Slice into squares and serve.
Tips for the Perfect Lemon Bars
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice doesn’t quite have the same zing.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the butter and eggs are at room temperature for even mixing and the best texture.
- Cooling Time: Let the bars cool completely before slicing to ensure clean edges and prevent the filling from being too loose.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Orange Poppy Seed Bars: Substitute the lemon juice and zest with orange juice and orange zest for a different citrus flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour mix to make these bars gluten-free. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
- Extra Tartness: If you love a really tangy flavor, add an extra tablespoon of lemon zest or a splash more lemon juice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I store Lemon Poppy Seed Bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
2. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These lemon bars can be made 1-2 days in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator and dust with powdered sugar just before serving.
3. Can I use a different type of citrus?
Yes, you can substitute lemon with lime or orange to create different citrus flavors. Just make sure to adjust the zest and juice accordingly.
4. Why are my bars runny?
If the bars are runny, they may need more baking time. Make sure the filling is set before removing it from the oven. If the mixture still jiggles a lot when shaken, bake for a few more minutes and check again.
These Mouthwatering Lemon Poppy Seed Bars are an amazing combination of bright, tangy citrus flavor and buttery sweetness, complemented perfectly by the crunch of poppy seeds. Whether you’re looking for a light dessert after dinner or a refreshing treat for a picnic, these bars are easy to make and guaranteed to please. Give this recipe a try, and let the vibrant taste of lemon brighten up your day!
Happy baking, and enjoy every zesty bite of these delightful lemon poppy seed bars
