Lemon Poppy Seed Bars

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Lemon Poppy Seed Bars.

1. Step 1

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat an 8-inch square baking dish with cooking spray.

2. Step 2

   In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and confectioners' sugar. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is creamy, about 2 to 3 minutes.

3. Step 3

   Add the all-purpose flour, salt, and optional ground cardamom to the bowl. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Stir in the poppy seeds until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

4. Step 4

   Using floured hands, press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

5. Step 5

   Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 18 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown.

6. Step 6

   While the crust is baking, prepare the lemon filling. In a separate bowl, combine granulated sugar, eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Beat with an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth, about 1 to 2 minutes. Then, add a bit of flour and stir until just combined.

7. Step 7

   Once the crust is done baking, pour the lemon filling over the hot crust and return the dish to the oven.

8. Step 8

   Bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the filling is puffy and lightly browned around the edges. Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into 16 squares.

9. Step 9

   Before serving, dust the tops lightly with confectioners' sugar for an elegant finish.