Description
These Sweet Lime Bars with Lavender combine a refreshing citrus flavor with a delicate floral note, creating a delightful raw dessert that is both light and satisfying. Made with a nutty crust and a creamy sweet lime filling infused with lavender, this no-bake treat is perfect for a special occasion or a healthy sweet snack.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 cup almonds
- 1/2 cup desiccated coconut
- 1/3 cup Medjool dates
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- Zest of 1 sweet lime or lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon lavender buds (a pinch will do fine)
- Pinch of sea salt
Filling
- 2 cups cashews (soaked)
- Juice of 3 sweet limes
- Zest of 1 sweet lime
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon lavender buds
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (adjust if using regular lemons)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- Pinch of salt
Decoration
- Lavender buds (for decorating)
- Bee pollen (optional, for decorating)
Instructions
- Soak Nuts: Soak almonds and cashews separately in water for at least one hour to soften for easier blending. After soaking, drain thoroughly to remove excess water.
- Prepare Pan: Line a bar pan or half of a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easier after chilling.
- Make Crust: In a food processor, combine almonds and desiccated coconut and process until they form a coarse meal. Add Medjool dates, coconut oil, sweet lime zest, lavender buds, and a pinch of sea salt. Process until the mixture holds together well enough to form shapes. Press this crust mixture evenly into the prepared pan to create the base.
- Prepare Filling: Without washing the food processor, add soaked cashews, sweet lime juice, sweet lime zest, sea salt, lavender buds, honey or maple syrup, coconut oil, and a pinch of salt. Process until completely smooth, about 2 minutes. If the filling is too runny, add coconut oil one tablespoon at a time to thicken. If too thick, add water one tablespoon at a time to soften the mixture.
- Assemble Bars and Chill: Pour the smooth filling over the crust base, spreading evenly. Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours to allow the bars to firm up properly.
- Serve: Once chilled and set, sprinkle the bars with lavender buds and optional bee pollen for a decorative touch. Serve the bars chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Soaking nuts softens them, making the filling and crust easier to blend and resulting in a smoother texture.
- Adjust the amount of sweetener depending on the tartness of the citrus used.
- These bars are best served chilled and stored in the refrigerator to maintain their shape.
- Bee pollen is optional but adds a beautiful appearance and subtle flavor.
- Use sweet limes if available; if substituting regular lemons, consider increasing the sweetener.
