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When it comes to the world of desserts, few flavors are as uplifting and refreshing as lemon. The bright, zesty notes of lemon not only tantalize the taste buds but also evoke memories of sunlit days and cheerful gatherings. Lemon-flavored desserts bring a sense of rejuvenation, making them a popular choice for everything from brunches to picnics. Among these delightful options, the Zesty Lemon Poppy Seed Muffin Bars stand out for their unique combination of flavors and textures, offering a perfect balance between sweet and tangy.

Lemon Poppy Seed Muffin Bars

Discover the bright and refreshing flavors of Zesty Lemon Poppy Seed Muffin Bars, a delightful treat for any occasion. Combining fluffy muffin texture with a convenient bar shape, these tasty squares offer a perfect balance of sweet and tangy lemon and a satisfying crunch from poppy seeds. Simple to make, they're ideal for breakfast, snacks, or dessert tables. Dive into the fun of baking and impress your friends and family with this cheerful, flavorful creation!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

½ cup granulated sugar

½ cup packed brown sugar

½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Zest of 2 medium lemons

⅓ cup fresh lemon juice

⅓ cup buttermilk

¼ cup poppy seeds

For the Lemon Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar

2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Zest of 1 lemon (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper, allowing for easy removal later.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, use a whisk to combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside for later use.

      Combine Sugars and Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine both sugars—granulated and brown—with the melted butter. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Then, add the eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and buttermilk, whisking everything together until well mixed.

        Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the reserved dry ingredients to the wet mixture, gently stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture. Gently fold in the poppy seeds, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

          Pour and Spread: Transfer the batter into the prepared baking dish, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface. Smooth out the top to achieve an even bake.

            Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The muffin bars are done when the edges turn a light golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

              Prepare the Glaze: While the muffin bars are baking, prepare the lemon glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. If the glaze is too thick, add an additional tablespoon of lemon juice; if too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

                Cool and Glaze: After baking, allow the muffin bars to cool in the pan for approximately 10 minutes. Carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, drizzle the prepared lemon glaze over the top, and garnish with extra lemon zest for added flair.

                  Cut and Serve: Once the bars are fully cooled and glazed, slice them into squares or rectangles for serving. Enjoy your delightful Lemon Poppy Seed Muffin Bars with family and friends!

                    Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 50 mins | Servings: 12-16 bars

                      - Presentation Tips: Consider serving the muffin bars on a decorative platter, placing fresh lemon slices or edible flowers around them for an eye-catching touch.