Get ready to elevate your dessert game with these Lemon & Lavender Dream Bars! This delightful treat combines zesty lemon with aromatic lavender for a truly unique flavor profile. Perfect for a spring gathering or when you just need a little sunshine on a plate.
Flour forms the base of our crust and helps thicken the filling. We’re using all-purpose flour for its versatility.
Butter is key for a rich, crumbly crust. Make sure it's softened for easy mixing.
Dried culinary lavender is what makes these bars special. It adds a subtle floral note that pairs beautifully with lemon.
Lemon juice and zest give the filling its signature tang and brightness. Freshly squeezed is always best for flavor.
Eggs act as a binding agent, ensuring the filling sets beautifully.
Powdered sugar is used for dusting, adding a sweet finish without overwhelming the palate.
These bars pair beautifully with a light herbal tea, which complements the lavender notes. For a richer option, try serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They’re lovely as a refreshing afternoon treat or a light dessert after a hearty meal.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives you ample time to prepare the crust while the oven gets nice and hot. Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. This will make it easier to lift out the bars later without sticking.
In a medium-sized bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1/2 cup of softened butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to mix until the texture is crumbly. This mixture will form your crust, so make sure it’s evenly mixed.
Press this crumbly mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. You want an even layer, so take your time to press it into the corners. Pop this in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until it’s just starting to turn golden. Keep an eye on it—this is your foundation!
While the crust bakes, grab a small food processor and pulse the dried lavender until it’s finely ground. This helps distribute the flavor evenly throughout the filling.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of sugar, 2 tablespoons of flour, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and your ground lavender. This dry mixture ensures the filling has body and flavor.
Add the eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the lavender mixture. Whisk until it’s smooth and well combined. The eggs will thicken the filling as it bakes.
Once your crust is ready, pour the lemon-lavender filling over it. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes. The filling should be set but still have a slight jiggle in the center.
Allow the bars to cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar. This cooling period is crucial for clean slices, so resist the urge to cut too soon!
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