Lavender Lemon Bars

These Lavender Lemon Bars are a delightful twist on the classic lemon bar, featuring a unique flavor profile that combines the zesty brightness of lemon with the subtle floral notes of lavender. Perfect for summer gatherings, brunches, or simply as a sweet treat at home, these bars stand out with their refreshing taste and elegant presentation. The homemade lavender sugar adds a special touch that makes them irresistible!

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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: Prepare the Oven and Baking Pan
• Step 2: Make the Crust
• Step 3: Bake the Crust
• Step 4: Prepare the Filling
• Step 5: Combine Filling with Baked Crust
• Step 6: Cool and Serve
• How to Serve Lavender Lemon Bars
• With Fresh Berries
• Whipped Cream Topping
• Iced Tea Pairing
• Lemon Zest Garnish
• Dusting of Powdered Sugar
• Served Chilled
• 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
• What are Lavender Lemon Bars?
• Can I use fresh lemons instead of bottled juice?
• How do I know when my Lavender Lemon Bars are done baking?
• Can I customize my Lavender Lemon Bars?
• Are Lavender Lemon Bars gluten-free?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor: Experience the delightful combination of tangy lemon and delicate lavender for a truly special dessert.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Serving Options: These bars can be enjoyed at any occasion—be it a picnic, party, or simply a cozy night in.
• Beautiful Presentation: The lavender-infused topping provides an eye-catching finish that impresses guests.
• Make Ahead Friendly: Prepare these bars in advance; they keep well and taste even better after chilling.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients evenly without making a mess.
• 9×13 inch baking pan: The perfect size for baking these Lavender Lemon Bars evenly.
• Parchment paper: Helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

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 and Baking Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar, culinary dried lavender, melted butter, lavender sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and flour. Mix until well combined. Press this mixture into the bottom of your 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: Prepare the Filling

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, fresh lemon juice, remaining lavender sugar, lemon zest, and flour until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Filling with Baked Crust

Once the crust is baked and cooled slightly, pour the filling mixture over it. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 40 minutes or until set.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow your Lavender Lemon Bars to cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack. Once cooled, lift them out using parchment overhang. Dust with powdered sugar before slicing into squares to serve. Enjoy!

How to Serve Lavender Lemon Bars

These Lavender Lemon Bars can be enjoyed in various delightful ways. Whether you are hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a burst of color and flavor that complements the lavender notes.

Whipped Cream Topping

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the tangy lemon filling, making each bite even more indulgent.

Iced Tea Pairing

• Enjoy these bars with a refreshing glass of iced tea. The floral notes of the drink will match beautifully with the lavender flavor.

Lemon Zest Garnish

• Sprinkle extra lemon zest on top before serving for an added zing and aesthetic appeal.

Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• A light dusting of powdered sugar not only makes the bars look inviting but also adds a touch of sweetness to each slice.

Served Chilled

• For a cool treat, refrigerate the bars before serving. The chilled texture enhances their refreshing quality, perfect for hot days.

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How to Perfect Lavender Lemon Bars

To achieve the best Lavender Lemon Bars, consider these tips for perfecting your recipe.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh lemons and high-quality culinary lavender for the best flavor profile.

• Chill Before Cutting: Allow the bars to cool completely, then refrigerate them before slicing. This helps create clean edges and enhances texture.

• Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on your bars while baking. They should be set but slightly jiggly in the center when you remove them from the oven.

• Experiment with Sweetness: Adjust the amount of lavender sugar based on your taste preference for a sweeter or more balanced flavor.

• Zest Wisely: When zesting lemons, avoid the bitter white pith. Use only the colorful outer layer for maximum flavor.

• Let Them Rest: Allowing the bars to sit at room temperature after baking helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Lavender Lemon Bars

These Lavender Lemon Bars pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their delightful flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Citrus Salad: A refreshing salad featuring mixed citrus fruits can balance the sweetness of your dessert.

2. Cheese Platter: An assortment of soft cheeses complements the tanginess of lemon bars, offering a savory contrast.

3. Herbal Infused Water: Refreshing water infused with herbs like mint or basil can cleanse your palate between bites.

4. Fruit Sorbet: A scoop of lemon or berry sorbet provides a cooling effect that complements the tartness of the bars.

5. Almond Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti adds texture alongside your dessert, perfect for dipping into coffee or tea.

6. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy side dish that pairs well with lavender flavors.

7. Chocolate Covered Strawberries: These sweet treats add an elegant touch and contrast nicely with lemon’s brightness.

8. Mini Muffins: Lightly flavored muffins such as blueberry or lemon poppy seed can round out your dessert spread beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One of the joys of making Lavender Lemon Bars is the delightful experience they provide. However, there are a few common mistakes that can affect your results.

• Using fresh lavender: Fresh lavender can be too strong and may overpower the flavor. Stick with culinary dried lavender for a balanced taste.
• Incorrect measurements: Baking is precise. Always measure your ingredients accurately to ensure the right texture and flavor.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allowing the bars to cool completely before cutting helps achieve clean slices and enhances the flavors.
• Not using enough lemon juice: The lemon juice adds essential tanginess. Make sure to use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on your bars while baking. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, so remove them when they’re set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Lavender Lemon Bars

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will freeze well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Lavender Lemon Bars

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place bars in the oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars in short bursts of 15-20 seconds until warm. Be careful not to overheat as this can change their texture.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, placing bars in for a couple of minutes and covering with a lid to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Lavender Lemon Bars that might help you perfect your baking experience!

What are Lavender Lemon Bars?

Lavender Lemon Bars are a delicious dessert that combines sweet and tangy flavors with a hint of floral notes from culinary lavender.

Can I use fresh lemons instead of bottled juice?

Yes! Fresh lemon juice is recommended as it provides brighter flavor compared to bottled lemon juice.

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

Your bars should be set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I customize my Lavender Lemon Bars?

Absolutely! You can add different herbs or citrus zests, or even top them with whipped cream or berries for added flair.

Are Lavender Lemon Bars gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

These Lavender Lemon Bars offer a unique twist on traditional dessert bars, making them perfect for summer gatherings or tea parties. Their refreshing taste combined with customizable options makes them versatile enough for any occasion. Try adding different flavors or toppings to make these bars truly your own!