Delicious Homemade Lavender Simple Syrup Recipe

Lavender is beautiful and smells amazing. On top of that, it is becoming more and more popular as a flavor for your lattes and teas! This guide gives you my own personal lavender syrup recipe for Aunt Gracie's Cafe.

What You Need to Make Lavender Simple Syrup

Before starting, gather these ingredients and tools:

• Fresh or dried culinary lavender (You can get this at Hyvee or Walmart. I'm extra and get it at a Farmer's Market): About 2 tablespoons of dried or 1/4 cup fresh lavender flowers. Culinary lavender is important to avoid a soapy taste.

• Granulated sugar: 1 cup

• Water: 1 cup

• A small saucepan

• A fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth

• A clean glass jar or bottle for storage

  
  

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Combine water and sugar

   Pour 1 cup of water and 1 cup of sugar into the saucepan. Heat over high heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely. This usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes.

   
   

2. Add lavender flowers

   Once the sugar is dissolved, lower to medium/low heat. Add the lavender flowers to the syrup. Stir gently to combine.

   
   

3. Steep the lavender

   Cover the saucepan and let the lavender steep for 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the syrup to both thicken up absorb the floral notes without becoming too strong or bitter. I like to still stir occasionally.

   
   

4. Strain the syrup

   Remove from heat (and turn off your stovetop). After steeping, strain the syrup through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean container. Press the lavender gently to extract more flavor but avoid crushing it too much to prevent bitterness.

   
   

5. Cool and store

   Let the syrup cool to room temperature. Seal the jar or bottle and store it in the refrigerator. The syrup will keep fresh for up to two weeks.

How to Use Lavender Simple Syrup

Lavender syrup is versatile and can elevate many recipes:

• Cocktails: Add 1 to 2 tablespoons to gin or vodka cocktails for a floral note.

• Lemonade or iced tea: Stir into cold drinks for a refreshing twist.

• Coffee or lattes: Mix into hot or iced coffee for a subtle lavender flavor.

• Desserts: Drizzle over cakes, pancakes, or ice cream.

• Mocktails: Combine with sparkling water and fresh lemon juice for a fragrant non-alcoholic drink.

  
  

Storing and Shelf Life

Keep your lavender simple syrup refrigerated in a sealed container, like a Mason Jar. It will last about two weeks. If you want to extend the shelf life, you can add a splash of vodka (about 1 tablespoon per cup of syrup) as a preservative. Always check for any signs of spoilage before use! And enjoy!

Cheers to you!