I've always loved desserts that surprise me with their flavors, and Lemon Lavender Bars do exactly that. The zesty lemon filling pairs perfectly with the delicate floral hint of lavender, creating a treat that's both invigorating and unique. The buttery crust adds just the right amount of texture, making each bite a little adventure. If you're curious about how these flavors come together, you'll want to stick around for the recipe.
What You'll Love About This Recipe
These Lemon Lavender Bars blend zesty citrus with fragrant blooms for a unique treat. Perfect for any occasion, they're as delightful to eat as they are to make.
- A revitalizing balance of tangy lemon and floral lavender flavors.
- Simple ingredients combined for an elegant, show-stopping dessert.
- Quick and easy to prepare, with a short baking time for convenience. Additionally, consider experimenting with various toppings ideas to elevate the flavor profile of your bars.
Recipe
Lemon Lavender Bars are a delightful fusion of citrusy freshness and floral elegance, perfect for any occasion. These bars combine the tangy zest of lemon with the subtle, aromatic notes of lavender, creating a treat that's both invigorating and sophisticated.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1 teaspoon dried culinary lavender
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
- In a bowl, cream together the butter and 1/2 cup sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually mix in 2 cups of flour and salt until the dough comes together. Press the dough into the prepared pan evenly.
- Bake the crust for 20 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, 1 1/2 cups sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and lavender. Gradually add 1/4 cup flour and mix until smooth.
- Pour the lemon mixture over the crust and return to the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the filling is set.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, lift them out using the parchment paper, dust with powdered sugar, and cut into squares.
Notes:
- Make certain the lavender is culinary-grade to avoid any bitter taste.
- For a stronger lemon flavor, add extra lemon zest.
- Storage Tip: Proper storage ensures delightful taste retention over time.
Time:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Serving: 12 bars
Calories: Approx. 290 per bar
Cuisine: Dessert
Equipment
To make these delightful Lemon Lavender Bars, you'll need a few essential kitchen tools. Gather the following equipment to guarantee a smooth baking process:
- 8-inch square baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Zester or grater
- Offset spatula or knife
- Cooling rack
Nutrition
Lemon lavender bars offer a delightful blend of sweet and floral flavors while providing some nutritional benefits. These treats are a perfect balance of indulgence and nourishment.
- Rich in Vitamin C from fresh lemon juice
- Contains antioxidants from lavender
- Provides a source of calcium from the crust's butter
- Offers a moderate amount of energy from sugar and flour
- Includes a small amount of fiber from the crust ingredients
What to Serve With This Recipe
I love pairing these lemon lavender bars with a soothing cup of tea, like chamomile or Earl Grey, to complement their floral notes. A fresh fruit platter adds a burst of color and juicy sweetness, while a selection of mild cheeses balances the tanginess perfectly. For summer gatherings, I also enjoy serving them with iced herbal drinks or light salads for a revitalizing, well-rounded spread. Additionally, consider garnishing with seasonal fruits like strawberries or blueberries to enhance the overall flavor profile.
Tea Pairings
Though I'm a big fan of lemon lavender bars on their own, I've found they're even better when paired with the right tea. I love cold brews like iced jasmine or hibiscus for an invigorating twist. Their floral notes complement the lavender beautifully. For something warm, earl grey or chamomile adds a cozy balance. Experiment freely, and let the flavors take you somewhere new!
Fresh Fruit Platter
A fresh fruit platter is the perfect companion to lemon lavender bars, adding a bright and invigorating contrast to their rich, tangy sweetness. I love how its seasonal presentation lets me mix juicy berries, crisp apples, and tropical mangoes, creating a feast for the eyes with vibrant colors. It's a simple, freeing way to balance sweetness with zest, making every bite feel fresh and alive.
Iced Herbal Drinks
Pairing iced herbal drinks with lemon lavender bars brings out the best in both. I love how invigorating herbal infusions feel alongside the citrusy sweetness. Try cooling botanical blends like mint, chamomile, or hibiscus—they're light, aromatic, and let the bars shine. It's a combo that feels effortless and liberating, perfect for sunny afternoons. Trust me, it's a match that encourages you to savor every sip and bite.
Cheese Selection
Selecting the right cheeses to serve with lemon lavender bars can really elevate the experience. I love pairing them with creamy, mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese—they complement the bars' citrusy, floral notes without overpowering them. For bold flavor pairings, a sharp cheddar adds a tangy contrast. Always opt for high dairy quality; it makes a difference. Trust me, it's a match worth savoring.
Light Salads
After enjoying the rich flavors of cheese alongside lemon lavender bars, I like to balance things out with a light, invigorating salad. I toss zesty arugula with a tangy citrus vinaigrette for a revitalizing combo. It's simple, yet bursting with flavor and adds a crisp contrast to the dessert's sweetness. This salad lets you savor every bite without feeling weighed down—perfect for a carefree meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Dried Lavender Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely, I'd use dried lavender over fresh any day—it's like a flavor bomb waiting to happen! Just make sure your lavender storage is airtight and your lavender sourcing is first-rate for that unbeatable freedom in flavor.
How Long Do Lemon Lavender Bars Stay Fresh?
I've found they stay fresh for about 3-4 days at room temp, but storage tips like refrigerating them can extend their shelf life to a week. Keeping them airtight helps maintain that perfect flavor and texture.
Can I Substitute Lemons With Limes?
I once swapped lemons for limes in a recipe, and the citrus alternatives transformed the dish, bringing bold, tangy lime flavors that felt like trading a quiet sunset for a vibrant sunrise—fresh, unexpected, and liberating.
Is Lavender Safe to Eat in Desserts?
I've learned lavender's culinary safety depends on using food-grade varieties. It's packed with lavender benefits like calming properties and unique flavor. I'd say feel free to experiment, but always verify it's safe for consumption.
Can I Make These Bars Gluten-Free?
I can break the chains of dietary restrictions by swapping regular flour for gluten-free flour, opening a world where freedom tastes sweet. It's a seamless shift—like a river finding a new path.
