Lemon Lavender Shortbread Bars Recipe — Spring Herb Dessert Trend
These bars captured spring in every bite! Buttery shortbread base with bright lemon curd and delicate lavender - floral without being overpowering.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- all-purpose flour 1.5 cups
- unsalted butter 1 cup
- powdered sugar 0.5 cup
- eggs 3 pieces
- granulated sugar 1 cup
- fresh lemon juice 1 third cup
- lemon zest 1 tbsp
Seasonings/Sauce
- dried culinary lavender 1.5 tsp
- vanilla extract 1 tsp
- salt 0.25 tsp
- powdered sugar (for dusting) 2 tbsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates
32 g
45%
Protein
3 g
4%
Fat
14 g
51%
Cooking steps
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1
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
-
2
In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup unsalted butter and 0.5 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add 1.5 cups all-purpose flour, 0.5 tsp salt, and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Mix until a crumbly dough just comes together.
-
3
Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 18–20 minutes, until the edges are pale golden. Let cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
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4
For the lemon lavender curd, lightly whisk 3 eggs in a medium bowl. Add 1 cup granulated sugar, 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice, 1 tbsp lemon zest, and 1.5 tsp dried culinary lavender (rub between your fingers to release flavor). Whisk until smooth.
-
5
Pour the lemon lavender filling over the warm shortbread base. Return to oven and bake another 22–25 minutes, until just set and lightly golden at the edges.
-
6
Cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up. Dust generously with 2 tbsp powdered sugar before cutting into bars.
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7
Tradition tip: In springtime, lavender and lemon symbolize renewal—these bars are perfect for a seasonal dessert platter or Mother’s Day tea.
Personalized Q&A
Q. Why are Lemon Lavender Shortbread Bars perfect for spring?
With bright lemon and delicate lavender, these bars offer flavors and colors that capture the freshness of spring. Citrus and floral notes are often used in springtime gatherings, signaling renewal and new beginnings. The combination of buttery shortbread with herbal notes makes them especially fitting for celebrations like Mother's Day or seasonal afternoon teas.
Q. How do I prevent the shortbread dough from being too crumbly or dry?
Be sure to cream the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy before gently mixing in the flour. If the dough still seems crumbly, press it firmly into the pan—your hands will help bring it together without overworking. Measuring the flour accurately and not overbaking the crust are both key to a tender shortbread base.
Q. Can Lemon Lavender Shortbread Bars be made ahead?
Yes! These bars are ideal for make-ahead entertaining. Once cooled and dusted, they can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For the best texture, let them come to room temperature before serving so the lemon curd softens slightly.
Q. How many calories are in each serving of Lemon Lavender Shortbread Bars?
Each serving (65g) contains approximately 280 kcal, with 32g carbohydrates (45%), 3g protein (4%), and 14g fat (51%). These values reflect a classic buttery bar with both shortbread and lemon curd layers.
Q. Can I make these bars gluten-free or dairy-free?
For gluten-free bars, substitute a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. For a dairy-free version, try a vegan butter alternative with a similar fat content. The recipe naturally contains no nuts, but always double check ingredient labels when adapting.
