Lavender Lemon Bars

These Lavender Lemon Bars are a delightful twist on the classic lemon bar. With their refreshing tang and sweet floral notes, they make for an ideal dessert for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic or a cozy gathering at home. The unique addition of homemade lavender sugar elevates these bars, providing a subtle yet distinct flavor that is sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of lemon and lavender creates an exquisite taste that stands out among traditional desserts.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a brunch, tea party, or family gathering, these bars fit right in.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip these up with ease.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or served alongside fresh berries.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: These bars are sure to be a hit with both lemon lovers and those looking for something new!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Lavender Lemon Bars, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in achieving the perfect texture and flavor.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 inch baking pan: This size is perfect for evenly baking your bars and helps achieve that desired texture.
• Whisk: A good whisk will ensure all ingredients are combined smoothly without lumps.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for scraping down the sides of bowls and ensuring no batter is wasted.

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

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Lavender Lemon Bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and dried lavender.
2. Add melted butter and mix until well combined.
3. Stir in vanilla extract and salt.
4. Gradually add in the flour until just combined; do not overmix.
5. Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

1. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until light golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Step 4: Make the Filling

1. In another bowl, whisk together eggs and lavender sugar until well blended.
2. Add fresh lemon juice and lemon zest; mix until combined.
3. Sift in flour; stir gently until just incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Filling with Crust

1. Pour the filling over the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly.

Step 6: Bake Again

1. Return to oven and bake for an additional 40–45 minutes or until set in the center. The edges should be slightly puffed.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

1. Allow your Lavender Lemon Bars to cool completely before slicing into squares. Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Lavender Lemon Bars!

How to Serve Lavender Lemon Bars

These Lavender Lemon Bars are perfect for any occasion, bringing a unique and refreshing flavor to your dessert table. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

Pairing with Fresh Berries

• Serve your Lavender Lemon Bars with a mix of fresh berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. The tartness of the berries complements the sweetness and floral notes of the bars beautifully.

Adding a Dollop of Whipped Cream

• A light dollop of whipped cream on top adds a creamy texture that balances the tangy filling. You can sweeten it lightly or infuse it with a hint of vanilla for extra flavor.

Garnishing with Edible Flowers

• For an elegant touch, garnish each bar with edible flowers. Lavender blossoms or pansies not only enhance the visual appeal but also tie in with the lavender flavor.

Accompanying with Tea or Lemonade

• Serve these bars alongside a refreshing glass of iced tea or homemade lemonade. The citrus notes in both beverages will harmonize perfectly with the bars’ flavors.

Serving on a Festive Platter

• Present your Lavender Lemon Bars on a decorative platter alongside other desserts for a stunning dessert table. This creates an inviting atmosphere at parties or gatherings.

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How to Perfect Lavender Lemon Bars

To achieve the best results with your Lavender Lemon Bars, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and zest provide vibrant flavors that enhance the taste of your bars.
• Control baking time: Keep an eye on the baking process; overbaking can lead to dry bars. They should be set but slightly jiggly in the center when you take them out.
• Cool completely before slicing: Allow the bars to cool at room temperature before slicing. This helps maintain their shape and makes for cleaner cuts.
• Dust with powdered sugar: Just before serving, sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant finish and added sweetness.
• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness for up to a week.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to adjust the amount of lavender sugar or add other flavorings like lemon zest for even more depth.

Best Side Dishes for Lavender Lemon Bars

Pairing side dishes with Lavender Lemon Bars can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad made from seasonal fruits enhances sweetness without overshadowing the bars’ flavor.
2. Cheese Plate: A selection of soft cheeses like goat cheese or brie pairs well, offering creamy contrasts to the tangy lemon bars.
3. Lavender Iced Tea: Brewed with lavender and served chilled, this tea complements the flavors of your dessert beautifully.
4. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats add texture and richness while balancing out the tartness of the lemon bars.
5. Almond Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti provides a satisfying contrast when dipped into tea or coffee alongside your bars.
6. Chocolate Covered Strawberries: The rich chocolate coating enhances sweetness and works well against floral notes from the lavender.
7. Lemon Sorbet: A scoop of lemon sorbet provides a refreshing palate cleanser that pairs excellently with sweet desserts.
8. Pistachio Cookies: These nutty cookies add an earthy note that complements both lemon and lavender flavors wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lavender Lemon Bars, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using fresh lavender: Fresh lavender can be too strong and overpowering. Stick to culinary dried lavender for a milder flavor.
• Skipping the zest: Leaving out lemon zest diminishes the flavor of your bars. Always add fresh zest for a bright and tangy taste.
• Not cooling the butter: If you use hot butter, it can cook the eggs when mixed. Allow your melted butter to cool slightly before combining.
• Overbaking: Baking for too long can result in dry bars. Keep an eye on them and remove them when they are just set and slightly jiggly in the center.
• Ignoring chilling time: Cutting the bars before they fully chill can lead to messy squares. Allow them to cool completely in the fridge for clean cuts.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Lavender Lemon Bars in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Lavender Lemon Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.

Reheating Lavender Lemon Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 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 delightful dessert that combines tangy lemon flavor with subtle notes of lavender, resulting in a refreshing treat.

Can I use fresh lemons instead of bottled juice?

Yes, using freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances the flavor of your Lavender Lemon Bars, making them even more delicious.

How do I make lavender sugar?

To make lavender sugar, simply blend granulated sugar with dried culinary lavender until well combined. This adds a lovely floral note to your desserts.

Can I customize my Lavender Lemon Bars?

Absolutely! You can add other flavors like vanilla or almond extract or even mix in berries for added texture and taste.

Final Thoughts

These Lavender Lemon Bars are not only tangy and sweet but also offer a unique twist that makes them stand out. Their versatility allows you to customize them based on your preferences, whether you wish to enhance the floral notes or incorporate different ingredients. Give this recipe a try; you’re sure to delight your friends and family!