Lavender Lemon Bars

Why You’ll Love Lavender Lemon Bars Recipe

These Lavender Lemon Bars go beyond the traditional lemon square by incorporating fragrant culinary lavender. The combination of tart lemon and aromatic lavender creates a light, flavorful dessert that looks just as stunning as it tastes. They’re easy to make, with simple ingredients and a big payoff in flavor. Whether you’re a lemon lover or trying something new, these bars are bound to impress.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Lavender Crust:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon dried lavender blooms

Lemon Curd Layer:
1 cup granulated sugar
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Pinch of salt
3 large eggs
Zest and juice of 2 lemons
1/2 teaspoon lavender extract
Lavender food coloring (optional)

Dusting:
Powdered sugar for dusting

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, softened butter, powdered sugar, and dried lavender blooms until the mixture becomes crumbly.

3. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.

4. Bake the crust for 15–20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.

5. While the crust cools, whisk together the granulated sugar, flour, baking powder, salt, eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and lavender extract. Add a few drops of lavender food coloring if desired.

6. Pour the lemon-lavender mixture over the pre-baked crust.

7. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 20–25 minutes, or until the filling is set.

8. Allow the bars to cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar and slicing into squares.

Servings and timing

Makes approximately 16 squares
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Lemon-Free Option: Replace lemon juice and zest with orange or grapefruit for a different citrus twist.

• Lavender-Free Version: Omit lavender if you prefer a traditional lemon bar flavor.

• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in both the crust and curd.

• Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter and an egg replacer suitable for baking.

• Nut Crust: Add finely ground almonds or hazelnuts to the crust for added texture and flavor.

• Extra Tart: Add a little more lemon zest and reduce the sugar slightly for a sharper bite.

• Thicker Bars: Double the curd recipe and increase baking time for a thicker filling.

• Herbal Blend: Mix in a pinch of thyme or rosemary for more herbal depth.

• Berry Twist: Add a thin layer of blueberry or raspberry puree under the curd for extra color and flavor.

• Colored Dusting: Use colored powdered sugar or edible glitter for special occasions.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover lavender lemon bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the bars (cut or uncut) in a single layer, then transfer to a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. These bars are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature—no reheating necessary.

FAQs

What kind of lavender should I use for baking?

Use culinary-grade dried lavender blooms that are safe for consumption. Avoid lavender meant for potpourri or decorative use.

Can I make these bars without lavender?

Yes, you can omit the lavender blooms and extract for a classic lemon bar variation.

How strong is the lavender flavor?

The lavender flavor is subtle and floral. You can adjust the amount of extract to suit your taste.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice and zest offer the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.

Is food coloring necessary?

No, the lavender food coloring is purely optional and only affects the appearance, not the taste.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can make them a day or two in advance. Store in the fridge until ready to serve.

Why is my lemon curd runny?

The curd may be underbaked or not cooled enough. Make sure it’s fully set before slicing.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. You may need to increase the baking time slightly.

What does lavender extract taste like?

Lavender extract has a strong floral, slightly sweet flavor. A small amount adds elegance without overpowering.

How do I cut the bars cleanly?

Let the bars cool completely, then use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts for the best presentation.

Conclusion

Lavender Lemon Bars are a delightful way to elevate a classic dessert with floral flair. They’re simple to make, refreshingly different, and perfect for sharing. Whether served at a garden party or enjoyed as a personal treat, these bars deliver a sweet, aromatic experience that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate. Give them a try and bring a little spring sunshine to your table any time of year.

Lavender Lemon Bars

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

These Lavender Lemon Bars are a fragrant twist on the classic lemon dessert, featuring a buttery lavender-infused crust and a tangy, floral lemon curd topping.

• Author: Emily
• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 16 bars
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon dried lavender blooms
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• 3 large eggs
• Zest and juice of 2 lemons
• 1/2 teaspoon lavender extract
• Lavender food coloring (optional)
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix 1 cup flour, softened butter, powdered sugar, and dried lavender blooms until crumbly. Press mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
3. Bake crust for 15–20 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.
4. In another bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, 3 tablespoons flour, baking powder, salt, eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and lavender extract. Add a few drops of lavender food coloring if desired.
5. Pour the lemon mixture over the cooled crust and return to oven.
6. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the filling is set and no longer jiggles.
7. Remove from oven and cool completely in the pan.
8. Dust with powdered sugar before cutting into squares and serving.

Notes

• Lavender Blooms: Use culinary lavender that is safe for consumption.
• Even Distribution: Ensure that the lavender is evenly distributed in the crust for a delicate flavor balance.
• Cooling Time: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to maintain their shape.
• Lavender Extract: Lavender extract is concentrated, so a little goes a long way. Start with 1/2 teaspoon and adjust according to your taste preference.
• Taste Test: Before pouring the curd, do a taste test to ensure the desired lavender flavor. You can add more extract if needed.
• Color Change: Add a few drops of lavender food coloring, so your lemon bars look how they taste.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 45mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 45mg