These Lavender Lemon Bars are a delightful twist on classic lemon bars, perfect for any occasion. The infusion of homemade lavender sugar adds a unique flavor, making them an ideal treat for summer gatherings, picnics, or just a cozy afternoon snack. Their tangy and sweet profile is sure to impress your guests while offering a refreshing taste that’s hard to resist!
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Crust
- For the Filling
- How to Make Lavender Lemon Bars
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Prepare the Crust
- Step 3: Bake the Crust
- Step 4: Make the Filling
- Step 5: Bake Again
- Step 6: Cool and Serve
- How to Serve Lavender Lemon Bars
- With Fresh Berries
- Topped with Whipped Cream
- As Part of a Dessert Platter
- Drizzled with Honey
- Paired with Iced Tea
- Garnished with Lemon Zest
- How to Perfect Lavender Lemon Bars
- Best Side Dishes for Lavender Lemon Bars
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Lavender Lemon Bars
- Reheating Lavender Lemon Bars
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I make lavender sugar for these Lavender Lemon Bars?
- Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried in my Lavender Lemon Bars?
- What is the best way to serve Lavender Lemon Bars?
- Can I customize my Lavender Lemon Bars recipe?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique Flavor: The combination of lemon and lavender creates a refreshing taste that stands out.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these bars in no time.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a party or a quiet evening at home, these bars fit right in.
- Impressive Presentation: Dusting with powdered sugar gives these treats an elegant touch.
- Versatile Dessert: Pair them with tea or serve at potlucks; they complement many dishes.
Tools and Preparation
To create your Lavender Lemon Bars, you’ll need some essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking pan (9×13 inch)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking pan: A good quality baking pan ensures even cooking and the perfect shape for your bars.
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes helps you combine ingredients without spills or messes.
- Whisk: Perfect for mixing eggs and incorporating air into your batter for a light texture.
- Rubber spatula: Ideal for scraping down bowls and ensuring all ingredients are well-mixed.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 22.75 oz granulated sugar (3 ¼ cups)
- 2 TBSP culinary dried lavender
- 8 oz unsalted butter (1 cup), melted and slightly cooled
- 3.5 oz lavender sugar (1/2 cup)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 9 oz all-purpose flour (2 cups)
For the Filling
- 8 large eggs
- 1 ¼ cups fresh lemon juice
- 19.25 oz lavender sugar (2 3/4 cups)
- Zest of 2 lemons (about 2 TBSP)
- 2.25 oz all-purpose flour (1/2 cup)
- Powdered sugar (for serving)
How to Make Lavender Lemon Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Lavender Lemon Bars bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
- In a mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar, culinary dried lavender, melted butter, lavender sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and flour.
- Mix until the ingredients form a crumbly texture.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your baking pan to create an even layer.
Step 3: Bake the Crust
Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Step 4: Make the Filling
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs, fresh lemon juice, remaining lavender sugar, lemon zest, and flour until smooth.
- Pour this mixture over the baked crust.
Step 5: Bake Again
Return to the oven and bake for another 40 minutes or until set in the center.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow your Lavender Lemon Bars to cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar. Cut them into squares and enjoy!
How to Serve Lavender Lemon Bars
These Lavender Lemon Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet afternoon, here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
With Fresh Berries
- Serve your lavender lemon bars with a side of fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries for a burst of color and flavor.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Add a dollop of homemade whipped cream on top for an extra creamy texture that complements the tangy lemon filling.
As Part of a Dessert Platter
- Include these bars on a dessert platter alongside other sweets such as cookies and brownies to create an inviting spread for guests.
Drizzled with Honey
- A light drizzle of honey over the bars can enhance their sweetness and add an additional layer of flavor.
Paired with Iced Tea
- Enjoy these bars with a refreshing glass of iced tea, which balances the tartness of the lemon beautifully.
Garnished with Lemon Zest
- Sprinkle some extra lemon zest on top before serving to amplify the citrus aroma and add visual appeal.
How to Perfect Lavender Lemon Bars
To ensure your Lavender Lemon Bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh lemons and high-quality lavender for the best flavor.
- Measure Ingredients Accurately: Correct measurements are key to achieving the right texture in both the crust and filling.
- Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them; this helps maintain clean edges.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerating the bars for a few hours enhances their flavor and makes them even more refreshing.
- Try Different Flavors: Experiment by adding other herbs or citrus to create unique variations of lavender lemon bars.
- Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness for up to a week.
Best Side Dishes for Lavender Lemon Bars
Serving Lavender Lemon Bars can be even more enjoyable when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delicious contrast to the tangy flavors.
- Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats add texture and sweetness that pair well with lemon bars.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can refresh your palate between bites of rich dessert.
- Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses such as brie or goat cheese, which provide a savory balance to the sweetness.
- Chocolate Fondue: Dipping pieces of lavender lemon bar into chocolate fondue adds an indulgent twist.
- Lemon Sorbet: For those who love citrus, this frozen treat is perfect for cleansing the palate after rich desserts.
- Herbed Crostini: Lightly toasted bread topped with herbed cream cheese offers a savory option that complements sweet flavors.
- Sparkling Water: A refreshing glass of sparkling water can cleanse your palate while enhancing the overall experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Lavender Lemon Bars can be delightful, but there are a few common mistakes to watch for.
- measurement errors: Always double-check your ingredient amounts. Using too much or too little can affect the texture and flavor.
- neglecting the butter cooling: Melted butter should be slightly cooled before mixing. This prevents the eggs from cooking prematurely.
- not zesting properly: Zesting adds vibrant flavor. Make sure to avoid the bitter white pith while zesting your lemons.
- skipping the lavender sugar: Don’t skip making lavender sugar! It’s essential for that unique floral taste in both the crust and filling.
- overbaking: Keep an eye on your bars while baking. Overbaking can lead to dry, crumbly bars instead of the desired creamy texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Lavender Lemon Bars in an airtight container in the fridge.
- They will stay fresh for up to one week.
Freezing Lavender Lemon Bars
- To freeze, wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container.
- They can be frozen for up to three months.
Reheating Lavender Lemon Bars
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm bars for about 10 minutes for best texture.
- Microwave: Heat individual bars on low power for 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping once.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Lavender Lemon Bars.
How do I make lavender sugar for these Lavender Lemon Bars?
To make lavender sugar, blend granulated sugar with culinary dried lavender until fragrant. Use this mixture in both the crust and filling.
Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried in my Lavender Lemon Bars?
Fresh lavender can be used, but it is recommended to use culinary dried lavender for better flavor concentration and sweetness.
What is the best way to serve Lavender Lemon Bars?
Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch. They pair well with tea or as a light dessert after meals.
Can I customize my Lavender Lemon Bars recipe?
Absolutely! You can add other flavors like vanilla or almond extract. For a twist, consider adding berries or nuts to complement the lemon and lavender.
Final Thoughts
These Lavender Lemon Bars are not just delightful but also versatile. Their refreshing taste makes them perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic or a cozy family gathering. Feel free to customize them with your favorite flavors or toppings! Try making these bars today; you won’t regret it!
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Lavender Lemon Bars
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 16 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of Lavender Lemon Bars, a creative twist on the classic lemon bar. These refreshing treats feature the perfect balance of zesty lemon and aromatic lavender, making them an exquisite addition to any gathering or a blissful afternoon snack. With a buttery, crumbly crust topped with a luscious lemon filling, each bite bursts with flavor that is both tangy and sweet. Dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant finish, and you have a dessert that not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning on your table. Perfect for summer picnics, tea parties, or simply enjoying at home, these Lavender Lemon Bars are sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 22.75 oz granulated sugar (3 ¼ cups)
- 2 TBSP culinary dried lavender
- 8 oz unsalted butter (1 cup), melted and slightly cooled
- 3.5 oz lavender sugar (1/2 cup)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 9 oz all-purpose flour (2 cups)
- 8 large eggs
- 1 ¼ cups fresh lemon juice
- 19.25 oz lavender sugar (2 3/4 cups)
- Zest of 2 lemons (about 2 TBSP)
- 2.25 oz all-purpose flour (1/2 cup)
- Powdered sugar (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar, culinary dried lavender, melted butter, lavender sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and flour until crumbly. Press into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Bake for 20 minutes until lightly golden.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs, fresh lemon juice, remaining lavender sugar, lemon zest, and flour until smooth. Pour over baked crust.
- Bake again for 40 minutes or until set in the center.
- Cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar and cutting into squares.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (60g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
