Lavender Honey Lemon Bars are a delightful twist on traditional lemon bars, infused with the subtle floral notes of lavender and the natural sweetness of honey. These bars are perfect for a sophisticated dessert or a special occasion treat.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
For the Lemon Filling:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
For the Topping:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Make Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press into Pan: Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
- Bake Crust: Bake the crust for 15-18 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the Lemon Filling:
- Infuse Lavender: In a small saucepan, combine the honey and dried lavender. Heat over low heat for 5 minutes, then remove from heat and let it steep for 10 minutes. Strain out the lavender and discard.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, honey lavender mixture, lemon juice, lemon zest, flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt until smooth and well combined.
- Pour Filling: Pour the lemon filling over the slightly cooled crust.
- Bake Bars: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly golden. The center should have a slight jiggle but should not be liquid.
- Cool Bars: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set fully.
Serve:
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: Before serving, dust the top of the bars with powdered sugar if desired.
- Cut and Serve: Use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into squares or rectangles and serve chilled.
Tips for Perfect Lemon Bars:
- Infusing Lavender: Make sure to strain the lavender out completely to avoid any gritty texture in the filling.
- Cooling Time: Allow the bars to cool completely and refrigerate before cutting for clean, neat slices.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the filling before baking and adjust the honey or sugar to your preference if needed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Unique Flavor: The combination of lemon, honey, and lavender creates a sophisticated and refreshing flavor profile.
- Perfect Texture: The bars have a tender, custard-like filling with a buttery, crisp crust.
- Elegant Presentation: The light lavender notes and powdered sugar dusting make these bars perfect for special occasions or elegant gatherings.
Enjoy making and savoring these Lavender Honey Lemon Bars—a refined treat that brings a touch of luxury to any dessert table!