Lavender Lemon Bars

These Lavender Lemon Bars are a delightful twist on the classic lemon bar! Infused with homemade lavender sugar, they offer a unique floral note that complements the tangy lemon flavor. Perfect for summer gatherings, tea parties, or as a refreshing dessert after dinner, these bars are sure to impress. Their vibrant taste and beautiful presentation make them an ideal choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of lemon and lavender creates a refreshing and unique taste that stands out.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and clear steps, anyone can whip up these bars with minimal effort.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a picnic, party, or casual family dinner, these bars fit right in.
• Make Ahead Option: These bars can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge, making them a convenient dessert choice.
• Beautiful Presentation: Their bright colors and dusting of powdered sugar make these bars visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Lavender Lemon Bars efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 inch baking pan: This size is perfect for creating evenly baked bars that are easy to cut and serve.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to separate wet and dry ingredients easily for better mixing.
• Whisk: Ideal for blending eggs and combining ingredients smoothly without lumps.

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: Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking for your Lavender Lemon Bars.

Step 2: Make the Crust

• In a mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar and culinary dried lavender.
• Add melted butter, vanilla extract, salt, and flour into the bowl. Mix until combined.
• Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until lightly golden.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

• In another bowl, whisk together eggs and lavender sugar until smooth.
• Stir in fresh lemon juice and zest. Mix well before adding flour gradually until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Filling with Crust

Pour the filling over the baked crust gently.

Step 6: Bake Again

Return to the oven and bake for an additional 45 minutes, or until set in the center.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow your Lavender Lemon Bars to cool completely before slicing into squares. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch!

How to Serve Lavender Lemon Bars

Lavender lemon bars are a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
• Drizzle with honey or a light syrup for added sweetness.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of homemade whipped cream on top for a creamy texture.
• Sprinkle some lavender sugar on the cream for an extra floral hint.

Accompanied by Iced Tea

• Pair your lavender lemon bars with chilled iced tea for a perfect summer treat.
• Lemon or hibiscus tea complements the flavors beautifully.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Include lavender lemon bars on a platter with assorted desserts for variety.
• Consider adding cookies, macarons, and mini tarts to create an enticing display.

Served Chilled

• Chill the bars in the refrigerator before serving for a refreshing bite.
• This enhances the tangy flavor and makes them even more enjoyable on hot days.

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How to Perfect Lavender Lemon Bars

Perfecting your lavender lemon bars can take them from great to unforgettable. Here are some essential tips to ensure they turn out just right.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemons and culinary-grade dried lavender yield the best flavor.
• Don’t overmix: Mix your batter gently to keep the texture light and airy.
• Let them cool completely: Allow the bars to cool at room temperature before refrigerating for cleaner cuts.
• Dust with powdered sugar: A light sprinkle before serving adds sweetness and visual appeal.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to try different citrus zests or herbs for unique variations.

Best Side Dishes for Lavender Lemon Bars

Pairing side dishes with lavender lemon bars enhances their delightful taste. Here are some recommendations that complement this sweet treat well.

1. Creamy Coleslaw
   A light, tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the sweetness of the bars.

2. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing fruit salad brings natural sweetness and vibrant colors to your dessert table.

3. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses, especially soft cheeses like goat cheese, pairs wonderfully with the tartness of the bars.

4. Savory Quiche
   A slice of quiche provides a hearty contrast that can make for an elegant brunch option alongside dessert.

5. Herbed Couscous
   Fluffy couscous infused with herbs is a great savory counterpart, enhancing the overall dining experience.

6. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and balance out the sweetness of lavender lemon bars nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Lavender Lemon Bars can be a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes can hinder your results.

• Using regular sugar instead of lavender sugar: Lavender sugar adds a unique flavor. Make sure to use it for the best taste.
• Overbaking the bars: Keep an eye on the baking time. Overbaking can lead to dry bars; they should be set but still slightly wobbly in the center.
• Skipping the zest: Lemon zest enhances the lemon flavor. Don’t forget to include it for a more vibrant taste.
• Not letting them cool properly: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting. This ensures clean edges and better texture.
• Using too much flour in the crust: Measure accurately. Too much flour can make the crust tough instead of flaky.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Lavender Lemon Bars in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Lavender Lemon Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
• These can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Lavender Lemon Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat for about 15-20 seconds on low power for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Place on a non-stick skillet over low heat until warmed through, usually around 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Lavender Lemon Bars.

What are Lavender Lemon Bars?

Lavender Lemon Bars are a tangy dessert made with a buttery crust and a sweet lavender-infused lemon filling. They offer a refreshing twist on traditional lemon bars.

How do I make homemade lavender sugar?

To make lavender sugar, blend granulated sugar with dried culinary lavender in a food processor until well combined. This adds flavor to your baking.

Can I substitute lemon juice?

Yes, you can use bottled lemon juice if fresh lemons are unavailable. However, fresh juice provides better flavor.

How do I know when my Lavender Lemon Bars are done?

The bars should be set around the edges with a slight jiggle in the center. They will firm up as they cool.

Final Thoughts

These Lavender Lemon Bars are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding different herbs or fruits for varied flavors. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy its unique blend of sweetness and tang!