Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bright, tangy lemon flavor
- Subtle floral aroma from lavender
- Buttery, tender shortbread crust
- Perfect balance of sweet and tart
- Beautiful and unique dessert option
- Great for special occasions or gifting
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
all-purpose flour
unsalted butter
powdered sugar
granulated sugar
eggs
fresh lemon juice
lemon zest
dried culinary lavender
baking powder
salt
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cut in softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together granulated sugar and dried culinary lavender. Let sit for a few minutes to infuse.
- Add eggs, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth.
- Pour the lemon-lavender mixture over the warm crust.
- Return to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggles.
- Allow to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.
Servings and timing
Servings: Makes 16 bars
Prep time: 20 minutes
Bake time: 35–40 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours
Total time: Approximately 3 hours
Variations
- Extra Lemon: Add additional lemon zest for a stronger citrus flavor.
- Honey Lavender: Replace part of the sugar with honey for a softer sweetness.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the crust.
- Purple Tint: Add a tiny drop of natural food coloring for a soft lavender hue.
- Shortbread Twist: Add a touch of vanilla extract to the crust for extra depth.
Storage/Reheating
Store Lavender Lemon Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep them chilled for the best texture and flavor.
For longer storage, freeze tightly wrapped bars for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating is not recommended, as these bars are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
FAQs
What does lavender taste like in lemon bars?
Lavender adds a light floral note that complements the bright tartness of lemon without overpowering it.
Can I use fresh lavender?
Yes, but make sure it is culinary-grade and use slightly less, as fresh lavender can be stronger.
How do I prevent the lavender from tasting too strong?
Use a small amount and allow it to infuse with the sugar before mixing.
Why is my filling runny?
The bars may need additional baking time or more chilling time to fully set.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, they are perfect for making a day in advance since they need time to chill.
Do I need to strain the lavender?
If the buds are finely ground or mixed well, straining is not necessary, but you can strain for a smoother texture.
How do I know when the filling is set?
The center should be firm and no longer jiggle when gently shaken.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, but reducing too much may affect the texture and balance of flavors.
What’s the best way to cut clean slices?
Chill thoroughly and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.
Are these bars very sweet?
They have a balanced sweetness with noticeable lemon tartness.
Conclusion
Lavender Lemon Bars are a refreshing and elegant dessert that blends bright citrus with delicate floral notes. With a buttery crust and smooth, tangy filling, they offer a sophisticated twist on a beloved classic. Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed as a special homemade treat, these bars are sure to impress.
PrintLavender Lemon Bars
Elegant Lavender Lemon Bars with a buttery shortbread crust and a smooth, tangy lemon filling infused with delicate floral lavender notes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (divided)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2/3 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon dried culinary lavender (finely crushed)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (divided)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups flour, powdered sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cut in softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together granulated sugar and dried culinary lavender. Let sit for a few minutes to infuse.
- Add eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt, baking powder, and remaining flour (if separated from total). Whisk until smooth.
- Pour the lemon-lavender mixture over the warm crust.
- Return to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggles.
- Allow to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.
Notes
- Use culinary-grade lavender and crush it finely for even distribution.
- Do not overbake; the center should be set but still tender.
- Chill thoroughly before slicing for clean cuts.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freeze tightly wrapped bars for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 95 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 33 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
