Lavender Cookie Bars Recipe from France with Cream Cheese and Walnuts

Lavender Cookie Bars

Lavender Cookie Bars Recipe from France with Cream Cheese and Walnuts
Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Lavender Cookie Bars
Lavender Cookie Bars

Lavender Cookie Bars are a delightful and unique treat that combines the floral notes of culinary lavender with a buttery cookie base. These bars are perfect for a special occasion or as a sweet treat to enjoy with a cup of tea.

History

The use of lavender in cooking dates back centuries, with the herb being prized for its aromatic and calming properties. Lavender has long been used in desserts and baked goods, adding a subtle floral flavor to dishes. The combination of lavender with a buttery cookie base in these Lavender Cookie Bars is a modern twist on a classic flavor pairing.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. In a mixer, blend together butter and cream cheese until well combined.
  2. Gradually add sugar and continue to mix.
  3. Add egg, flour, and lavender, and mix until thoroughly combined.
  4. Lightly grease a jelly roll pan (15.5 x 10.5) and press the dough onto it.
  5. Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  6. Ensure the top does not brown.
  7. While the cookie base is still warm, spread lavender fruit jam on top and sprinkle with nuts.
  8. Cut into bars while still warm.

Variations

  • Substitute the pecans with almonds or walnuts.
  • Use a different flavor of jam, such as raspberry or apricot.
  • Add a drizzle of white chocolate on top for extra sweetness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use culinary lavender, which is specifically grown for cooking and baking.

- Do not overmix the dough, as this can result in tough cookies.

- Press the dough evenly into the jelly roll pan to ensure even baking.

- Be careful not to overbake the bars, as they can become dry.

- Allow the bars to cool slightly before cutting to prevent them from crumbling.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy these Lavender Cookie Bars with a cup of herbal tea or as a light dessert after a meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cream the butter and cream cheese together until smooth.

- Press the dough evenly into the pan to ensure even baking.

- Spread the jam and nuts on top of the warm cookie base for the best flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use margarine instead of butter for a dairy-free option.

- Substitute vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free version.

- Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

These Lavender Cookie Bars can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve these Lavender Cookie Bars on a platter with a sprig of fresh lavender for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair these Lavender Cookie Bars with a glass of sparkling wine or a cup of lavender-infused tea for a delightful treat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Lavender Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 5 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Lavender Cookie Bars contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Lavender Cookie Bars contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Lavender Cookie Bars contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Lavender Cookie Bars contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Lavender contains vitamins A and C, as well as calcium and iron.

Alergens

These Lavender Cookie Bars contain dairy (butter, cream cheese) and nuts (pecans).

Summary

Lavender Cookie Bars are a sweet treat that is moderate in calories and contains a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They also provide some essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Lavender Cookie Bars are a unique and delicious treat that combines the floral notes of lavender with a buttery cookie base. These bars are perfect for a special occasion or as a sweet treat to enjoy with a cup of tea.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by it. It was a warm summer day, and I was at a quaint little bakery in the countryside. The aroma of freshly baked goods wafted through the air, and I couldn't resist stepping inside to see what delicious treats they had to offer.

As soon as I walked in, I was drawn to a display of Lavender Cookie Bars. The delicate purple flowers scattered on top of the bars caught my eye, and I knew I had to try them. I ordered one, took a bite, and instantly fell in love with the unique flavor combination of lavender and buttery shortbread.

I was determined to recreate these Lavender Cookie Bars at home, so I asked the friendly baker for the recipe. She smiled and told me that it was a family recipe passed down through generations, but she was happy to share it with me.

I eagerly scribbled down the ingredients and instructions, thanking the baker profusely before heading home to try my hand at making the bars myself. I gathered all the necessary ingredients - flour, sugar, butter, lavender flowers, and a touch of lemon zest - and got to work in the kitchen.

As I mixed the dough and pressed it into a baking pan, the familiar scent of lavender filled the air, transporting me back to that sunny bakery in the countryside. I popped the bars into the oven and waited anxiously for them to bake.

When the timer finally went off, I pulled the Lavender Cookie Bars out of the oven and let them cool on the counter. The aroma that filled the kitchen was heavenly, and I couldn't wait to take my first bite.

As I savored the delicate, buttery shortbread with hints of lavender and lemon, I felt a sense of accomplishment wash over me. I had successfully recreated the recipe that had captivated me from the moment I saw it, and it tasted just as delicious as I remembered.

From that day on, Lavender Cookie Bars became a staple in my baking repertoire. I would make them for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions, always receiving rave reviews from those who tried them.

Over the years, I have tweaked the recipe slightly, adding my own personal touches and experimenting with different variations. Sometimes I would drizzle a lemon glaze over the bars, or sprinkle them with a dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness.

Each time I make these Lavender Cookie Bars, I am reminded of that sunny day in the countryside bakery and the kind baker who shared her family recipe with me. It just goes to show that inspiration can strike in the most unexpected places, leading to delicious creations that bring joy to those who taste them.

So if you ever find yourself in need of a unique and delightful dessert, look no further than my Lavender Cookie Bars. I guarantee they will captivate your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Categories

| Bar Cookie Recipes | Cream Cheese Recipes | Egg Recipes | French Recipes | Lavender Recipes | Pecan Recipes | Preserves And Jam Recipes | Walnut Recipes | Wheat Flour Recipes |

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