Lavender Lemon Bars Dessert (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Shortbread Crust

01 - 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
02 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
03 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
04 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Lavender Lemon Filling

05 - 4 large eggs
06 - 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
07 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
08 - 1/2 teaspoon dried culinary lavender, finely ground
09 - 1 tablespoon lemon zest
10 - 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)

→ Topping

11 - Powdered sugar, for dusting
12 - Extra dried lavender (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
02 - In a mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the flour and salt, and mix until a dough forms.
03 - Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from oven and set aside.
04 - In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, flour, ground lavender, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth.
05 - Pour the lemon-lavender mixture over the warm crust and return to the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly firm in the center.
06 - Let the bars cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour for the best texture.
07 - Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with extra dried lavender if desired. Slice into bars and enjoy!

# Notes:

01 - Use culinary-grade lavender, as other types may be too strong or bitter.
02 - For a stronger lavender flavor, let the lavender steep in the lemon juice for 10 minutes before straining and using.
03 - Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.