Lavender Lemon Bars

These Lavender Lemon Bars are a delightful twist on the classic lemon bar, combining zesty lemon flavor with the subtle floral notes of lavender. Perfect for summer gatherings, tea parties, or just a sweet treat at home, these bars stand out not only for their unique taste but also for their beautiful presentation. The homemade lavender sugar enhances both the crust and filling, making them an unforgettable dessert option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of lavender and lemon offers a refreshing taste that is both tangy and sweet.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up these bars with confidence.
• Versatile Dessert: Great for any occasion, from casual family dinners to elegant celebrations.
• Impressive Presentation: These bars look stunning dusted with powdered sugar, making them a showstopper on any dessert table.
• Homemade Lavender Sugar: Creating your own lavender sugar elevates the flavor while adding a personal touch.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking process. Having everything ready will make your experience enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 inch baking pan: Ensures even baking and allows for 20 delicious bars in one go.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth mixture by thoroughly blending eggs and sugar.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of bowls and ensuring no ingredient goes unused.

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 bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and dried lavender.
2. Add melted butter to the mixture and stir until well combined.
3. Mix in vanilla extract and salt.
4. Gradually add flour until just combined; do not overmix.
5. Press the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking pan evenly.

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

1. In another bowl, whisk together eggs, fresh lemon juice, lavender sugar, lemon zest, and flour until smooth.
2. Pour this mixture over the baked crust in an even layer.

Step 5: Bake Again

Return to the oven and bake for an additional 40 minutes or until set in the middle.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow your Lavender Lemon Bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch! Enjoy these delightful treats!

How to Serve Lavender Lemon Bars

Serving Lavender Lemon Bars is a delightful way to enjoy this unique dessert. These bars can be presented in various ways that enhance their flavor and visual appeal.

With Fresh Berries

• Strawberries: Serve with sliced strawberries for a pop of color and sweetness.
• Blueberries: A handful of fresh blueberries adds a burst of tangy flavor.
• Raspberries: The tartness of raspberries balances the sweetness perfectly.

With Whipped Cream

• Sweetened Cream: A dollop of sweetened whipped cream adds richness to the bars.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider infusing the cream with vanilla or lavender for an extra touch.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Mini Desserts: Pair Lavender Lemon Bars with other mini desserts like macarons or brownies for variety.
• Cheese Selection: Include a cheese board with soft cheeses like brie to complement the tartness of the bars.

With Iced Tea or Lemonade

• Iced Herbal Tea: A glass of iced herbal tea enhances the floral notes in the bars.
• Sparkling Lemonade: Serve these bars with sparkling lemonade for a refreshing twist.

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How to Perfect Lavender Lemon Bars

To achieve the perfect Lavender Lemon Bars, pay attention to detail during preparation. Here are some helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh lemon juice and zest provide the best flavor compared to bottled alternatives.
• Sift Flour: Sifting flour ensures a lighter texture in both the crust and filling.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the bars to chill in the fridge enhances their flavor and makes cutting easier.
• Adjust Sugar Levels: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of lavender sugar in the filling slightly.
• Try Different Herbs: Experimenting with other herbs, like thyme, can create exciting variations.

Best Side Dishes for Lavender Lemon Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Lavender Lemon Bars can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some suggestions:

1. Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing lemon sorbet cleanses the palate and complements the lemony flavors.
2. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring melons and citrus enhances freshness without overwhelming tastes.
3. Cheese Cake Bites: Bite-sized cheesecake offers creamy contrast while keeping it light on flavors.
4. Chocolate-Dipped Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti dipped in chocolate provides a delightful texture pairing.
5. Pistachio Meringues: These airy treats add an elegant touch that pairs beautifully with lavender notes.
6. Almond Cookies: Light almond cookies add nutty flavors that balance well against citrus notes without being too heavy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lavender Lemon Bars, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using regular sugar instead of lavender sugar: Lavender sugar enhances the flavor of your bars. Make sure to use it in both the crust and filling for a distinct taste.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science. Use precise measurements for sugar, flour, and lemon juice to achieve the perfect texture.
• Skipping the zest: Zest adds a bright note to your bars. Don’t skip this step; it elevates the overall flavor profile.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on your bars as they bake. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture. Aim for a slight jiggle in the center when you take them out.
• Neglecting to chill before serving: Allowing the bars to cool completely before cutting helps them set properly and makes them easier to serve.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Lavender Lemon Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Lavender Lemon Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until slightly warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat each bar on medium power for about 15-20 seconds until warm. Be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a pan over low heat, cover, and warm gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Lavender Lemon Bars.

What are Lavender Lemon Bars?

Lavender Lemon Bars are tangy, sweet dessert bars infused with lavender sugar, offering a refreshing twist on traditional lemon bars.

How should I store Lavender Lemon Bars?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze them wrapped individually for up to 3 months.

Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?

While fresh lavender can be used, culinary dried lavender is recommended for better flavor extraction and sweetness.

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

Look for a slight jiggle in the center of the bars when you remove them from the oven. They will continue setting as they cool.

Final Thoughts

These Lavender Lemon Bars offer a delightful balance of tangy citrus and floral notes that make them perfect for any occasion. Their versatility allows you to customize flavors, perhaps by adding different herbs or fruit zests. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these charming treats at your next gathering!