Homemade Lavender Simple Syrup: Crafting Floral Sweetness for Drinks & Desserts

Unlock the enchanting aroma and delicate flavor of freshly blooming lavender flowers with this remarkably easy homemade lavender simple syrup recipe. A truly unique and versatile ingredient, this floral sweetener is the perfect addition to elevate your favorite drinks, from refreshing cocktails and iced teas to creamy lattes. Beyond beverages, it also adds a sophisticated touch to sweet treats, transforming everyday desserts into extraordinary culinary experiences. Prepare to infuse your home with the calming essence of lavender in just a matter of minutes.

About This Lavender Simple Syrup

There’s something incredibly captivating about the subtle, sweet, and aromatic flavor of lavender. For years, I’ve been utterly smitten with this floral essence ever since I first tasted a lavender latte. The delicate notes instantly made me a loyal fan, and I’ve been eager to incorporate this unique taste into as many dishes and drinks as possible.

As spring begins to emerge, bringing with it a desire for fresh, light, and invigorating flavors, creating this homemade lavender simple syrup became an absolute must. It’s an effortless way to infuse that delightful floral essence into your everyday culinary adventures, whether you’re whipping up refreshing beverages, experimenting with new cocktail recipes, or adding a fragrant twist to baked goods and desserts.

The beauty of this lavender simple syrup lies in its simplicity. You don’t need to be a seasoned mixologist or an experienced baker to craft delicious creations with it. The process of making the syrup itself is straightforward: a gentle combination of fragrant culinary lavender, sugar, and water, brought to a simmer. A quick cool-down, and your exquisitely flavored syrup is ready to use. Its subtle sweetness, captivating aroma, and impressive versatility make this syrup an ideal addition to virtually any meal or beverage. So, don’t hesitate to give it a try and discover how this floral elixir can breathe new life into your drinks and desserts.

Ingredients for Lavender Syrup

Making this fragrant simple syrup requires just a few basic ingredients:

• Lavender Buds: For this recipe, I highly recommend using dried culinary lavender flowers or dried lavender buds. These dried flowers offer a consistent, sweet floral aroma and are generally much easier to source than fresh lavender, especially when fresh isn’t in season. It’s crucial to ensure you’re using culinary-grade lavender, as other types might be treated with pesticides. Remember, lavender has a potent flavor, so a light hand is always best when incorporating it into your culinary creations!
• Granulated Sugar: Simple syrup, by definition, requires sugar! Standard granulated sugar is all you need here. While some recipes might call for alternatives, I find that granulated sugar provides the cleanest, purest sweetness that allows the delicate lavender flavor to truly shine. You could experiment with coconut sugar if you prefer, but I advise against using light brown sugar or dark brown sugar as their molasses notes can overpower the subtle floral essence of the lavender.
• Water: The quality of your water can subtly impact the final taste of your simple syrup. I prefer using filtered water for this recipe to ensure the purest flavor. However, regular tap water can certainly be used if it tastes good on its own. If your tap water has a metallic taste or any “off” flavors, opting for filtered water will definitely yield a superior result, letting the lavender’s essence take center stage.

Essential Tools for This Recipe

You’ll be pleased to know that you don’t need any specialized kitchen gadgets to make this fragrant simple syrup. Here’s a quick list of the basic equipment you’ll need:

• Measuring Cups: Essential for accurately portioning your lavender buds, sugar, and water, ensuring the perfect balance of flavors for your syrup.
• Saucepan: A medium-sized saucepan is ideal for combining and heating your ingredients. Its depth prevents spills and allows for even heat distribution.
• Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring the mixture, helping the sugar dissolve completely without scratching your saucepan.
• Fine Mesh Strainer: This is a crucial tool for separating the lavender buds from the infused syrup, resulting in a smooth, clear liquid. Don’t skip this step!
• Mason Jars or Airtight Container: Once your syrup is ready, you’ll need a suitable container for storage. Mason jars are a popular choice due to their airtight seal and appealing presentation, but any clean, airtight glass or plastic container will work perfectly.

How to Make Lavender Simple Syrup

Crafting this aromatic lavender simple syrup is a straightforward process, broken down into just a few easy steps. Follow these instructions to create your own bottle of floral sweetness:

Bring to a Gentle Boil

Begin by combining the dried lavender buds, one cup of granulated sugar, and one cup of water in a medium-sized saucepan. Place the saucepan over medium-high heat. Allow the mixture to come to a full, rolling boil. As soon as it reaches a boil, immediately reduce the heat to a low simmer.

Simmer to Dissolve Sugar

Continue to cook the mixture at a gentle simmer, stirring constantly with your wooden spoon. This consistent stirring is important to help the sugar dissolve completely into the water, forming a true simple syrup. This step typically takes about 5 minutes. Once the sugar crystals have fully dissolved, remove the saucepan from the heat.

Steep for Perfect Flavor

Now comes the crucial step for flavor infusion: steeping. Allow the lavender buds to remain in the syrup as it cools off. After approximately 15 minutes, taste the syrup to check for desired flavor strength. If you find the flavor to be perfectly balanced, proceed to strain the syrup. Pour the syrup through a fine mesh sieve to remove all the lavender buds, ensuring a smooth, clear syrup. If you prefer a stronger lavender flavor, let the buds steep for an additional 5 to 15 minutes, checking every 5 minutes until it reaches your preference. Personally, I find the flavor is best after steeping for a total of 15 minutes.

Once strained, allow the lavender simple syrup to cool completely to room temperature before using or storing. This ensures optimal flavor and extends its shelf life.

Expert Tips for the Best Lavender Syrup

Achieving the perfect lavender simple syrup is easy with a few key considerations in mind:

• Scale Up Your Batch: This recipe yields approximately 1 cup of finished lavender simple syrup. If you find yourself using it frequently, or if you’re preparing for a larger gathering, don’t hesitate to scale up! You can easily double or even triple the recipe by maintaining the same proportions of lavender, sugar, and water. This is a great way to ensure you always have this fragrant syrup on hand.
• Source the Right Lavender: The quality of your lavender directly impacts the flavor of your syrup. Whether you’re opting for fresh or dried, always look for “culinary lavender” or “food-grade lavender.” This is crucial because lavender not specifically designated for culinary use might have been treated with pesticides or other chemicals that are unsafe for consumption. Culinary lavender ensures a pure, safe, and delicious floral infusion. If harvesting from your garden, make sure it’s pesticide-free!
• Master the Steep: The steeping process is arguably the most important part of making lavender simple syrup. It’s during this time that the lavender buds release their essential oils and distinct flavor into the sugar solution. Don’t rush it! Allowing the syrup to sit and cool with the buds infuses significantly more flavor. A good starting point is 15 minutes, but the best part is that you can customize the intensity. Taste the syrup after 15 minutes, and if you desire a bolder lavender presence, let it steep for another 5 to 15 minutes, checking every 5 minutes until you reach your preferred flavor profile.
• Infuse with Citrus: If you’re looking to add another layer of brightness to your lavender syrup, consider introducing some citrus. I highly recommend adding a few fresh or dried citrus wheels to the saucepan during the simmering or steeping phase. Orange and lemon are particularly excellent choices, as their vibrant, tangy notes beautifully complement and uplift the delicate floral character of the lavender. This creates a more complex and incredibly refreshing syrup.
• Add a Hint of Vanilla: For a different, yet equally delightful, twist on this lavender syrup, try adding a splash of pure vanilla extract. This should be done *after* you’ve strained out the lavender buds or petals. Vanilla is a surprisingly wonderful complement to floral flavors like lavender, imparting a warm, creamy depth that enhances the overall profile of the syrup. Remember, a little goes a long way with vanilla extract, so start with a small amount, taste, and add more as desired to achieve the perfect balance.

Craving more unique simple syrup recipes? Explore these flavorful options: Cinnamon Simple Syrup | Cherry Simple Syrup | Pumpkin Spice Simple Syrup | Strawberry Rhubarb Simple Syrup

Can I Use Fresh Lavender for This Syrup?

Absolutely! While dried culinary lavender is often more accessible and offers consistent results, you can certainly use fresh lavender for this simple syrup recipe. When opting for fresh lavender, there are a few important details to keep in mind to ensure the best flavor and safety. Firstly, select lavender buds that are still tightly closed and vibrant purple, as these contain the most concentrated flavor. Once the buds open, some of the aromatic compounds can dissipate. Secondly, and most crucially, ensure that your fresh lavender flowers have not been treated with any pesticides or harmful chemicals. If you’re using lavender from your garden, be certain it’s organically grown and free of any sprays. Using fresh, untreated lavender will yield a beautifully fragrant and delicious syrup.

How Long Does Homemade Lavender Simple Syrup Last?

Homemade lavender simple syrup boasts a decent shelf life when stored properly. In the refrigerator, your freshly made syrup will remain fresh and flavorful for up to 1 month. For longer storage solutions, you’ll be pleased to know that it freezes exceptionally well and can last for several months in the freezer. Be sure to consult the detailed storage and freezing instructions below for additional tips on maximizing the longevity of your delicious lavender syrup.

Do You Need to Refrigerate Lavender Syrup?

Yes, absolutely. Like all homemade simple syrups, lavender simple syrup must be refrigerated to maintain its freshness and prevent spoilage. Once your syrup has cooled completely to room temperature, transfer it to a clean, airtight container or jar. Stored in this manner, it will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to one month. To make your life easier and keep track of freshness, here’s a pro tip: use a piece of tape to label your containers with the date you made the syrup and its estimated expiration date. This simple habit ensures you always enjoy your syrup at its best!

Can You Freeze Lavender Simple Syrup?

Yes, freezing is an excellent option if you want to extend the shelf life of your lavender simple syrup beyond a month in the refrigerator. To freeze, pour the completely cooled syrup into an airtight, freezer-safe container. I highly recommend using plastic containers over glass for freezing, as glass jars can sometimes crack or shatter when liquids expand during freezing if not enough headspace is left. Frozen lavender syrup can be stored for several months, allowing you to enjoy its delightful flavor whenever you wish.

For even more convenience, you can also freeze the syrup in ice cube trays. This method is perfect for creating individual, pre-portioned servings. Once the cubes are fully frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe resealable bag. This way, you can easily grab a cube or two whenever you need a touch of lavender sweetness for your drinks or recipes without having to thaw a whole batch.

Can I Make My Lavender Syrup Purple?

It’s a common misconception that lavender simple syrup will naturally turn a beautiful purple color. In reality, most homemade lavender simple syrup, especially when made with dried culinary lavender buds, tends to result in an amber or light brown hue rather than a vibrant purple. The final color is largely influenced by the specific type of lavender used and whether it’s fresh or dried. While deeply purple fresh flowers might impart a very subtle purplish tint, most edible dried lavender consists primarily of the beige-colored buds rather than the intensely colored petals, leading to a more muted, natural hue.

I personally don’t prioritize the purple color, as the flavor is what truly matters. However, if you are set on achieving that iconic purple shade for aesthetic reasons, you can easily achieve it with a touch of food coloring. A combination of a couple of drops of red and blue liquid food coloring will typically create a lovely purple. You may need to experiment a bit with the ratios, depending on the natural beige depth of your syrup, to get the exact shade you desire.

Is Lavender Syrup Delicious in Coffee?

Absolutely! Lavender syrup is a truly wonderful addition to your favorite coffee drinks, offering a delightful and unique floral twist that many find incredibly appealing. The subtle, aromatic notes of lavender beautifully complement the rich, earthy flavors of coffee. You can easily elevate your morning routine by creating a homemade lavender latte, a fragrant lavender cappuccino, or simply by stirring a spoonful of this floral syrup into your regular cup of brewed coffee. It’s a fantastic way to add a touch of gourmet café experience right in your own kitchen.

Looking for more cocktail inspiration? Be sure to explore my dedicated cocktails recipe page!

Creative Ways to Use Your Lavender Syrup

The versatility of this homemade lavender simple syrup is truly impressive, making it a fantastic ingredient to keep on hand. For me, the most obvious and enjoyable application is in cocktails, where it can transform both classic recipes and inspire unique new combinations, such as this refreshing lavender rosé royale cocktail.

However, the possibilities extend far beyond just adult beverages. Here are some other delightful ways to incorporate this fragrant syrup:

• Coffee & Tea Enhancer: Stir it into your favorite morning coffee for a sophisticated floral twist. A lavender latte is an absolute dream! To prepare, simply combine the syrup with steamed or warm milk, then add your freshly brewed espresso. It also works wonderfully in hot teas like Earl Grey, or to create a fragrant London Fog. Don’t forget to try it in iced tea for a refreshing summer drink!
• Homemade Lemonade Sweetener: Replace regular sugar with lavender simple syrup to sweeten homemade lemonade. This creates an incredibly refreshing and aromatic lemonade that’s perfect for garden parties, brunches, or any spring and summer gathering.
• Cake Moistener: For an added layer of moisture and a delicate floral essence, lightly brush the exterior of a vanilla cake or a lemon curd cake with this syrup. It infuses the cake with subtle sweetness and a beautiful lavender fragrance.
• Dessert Topping: Drizzle it generously over pancakes, waffles, or French toast for a special breakfast or brunch treat. It’s also an incredible topping for ice cream, especially our creamy lavender honey ice cream, adding a gourmet touch to a simple scoop.
• Sparkling Water Infusion: For a simple yet elegant non-alcoholic drink, add a splash of lavender syrup to sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a few fresh berries.
• Yogurt or Fruit Bowl Sweetener: Stir a teaspoon into plain yogurt or drizzle over a fresh fruit salad for an unexpected burst of floral sweetness.

Storing and Freezing Your Lavender Syrup

Proper storage is key to enjoying your homemade lavender simple syrup for as long as possible. Here’s how to do it right:

• Store: Always ensure the syrup has cooled completely to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container or jar. Once sealed, store it in the refrigerator. When properly stored, your lavender simple syrup will maintain its freshness and delightful flavor for up to 1 month.
• Freeze: If you’ve made a larger batch or want to extend its usability beyond the month, freezing is an excellent option. After the syrup has fully cooled, pour it into an airtight, freezer-safe container. As a cautionary note, I recommend using plastic containers for freezing rather than glass. Liquids expand when frozen, and if there isn’t enough headspace in a glass jar, it could potentially shatter. Frozen syrup will stay good for several months.
• Thaw: When you’re ready to use your frozen lavender syrup, simply transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. Once thawed, keep it stored in the refrigerator and use within its refrigerated shelf life.

Finally, if you take the time to create this delightful lavender simple syrup recipe, please consider leaving a rating or a comment below! I genuinely love hearing from you when you try my recipes, and I make an effort to respond to every single comment. Feel free to ask any questions you might have about the process or ingredients.

And of course, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram if you share your creations! Seeing these recipes come to life in your homes is truly my favorite part, and I absolutely adore looking through all your wonderful photos. It means the world to me!

Lavender Simple Syrup Recipe Card

This easy-to-make lavender simple syrup offers subtle floral notes, making it a fantastic addition to cocktails, refreshing drinks, and various desserts.

Prep Time: 5 minutes mins

Cook Time: 10 minutes mins

Additional Time: 15 minutes mins

Total Time: 30 minutes mins

Servings: 1 cup

4.7 from 54 votes

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Equipment

• Saucepan
• Fine Mesh Strainer
• Mason Jars

Ingredients

• 3 Tbsp dried or fresh culinary lavender buds
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup filtered water

Instructions

• Combine the culinary lavender buds, granulated sugar, and filtered water in your saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring the mixture to a rapid boil, then immediately reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
• Continue to simmer for approximately 5 minutes, stirring continuously, until all the sugar crystals have completely dissolved and the liquid is clear.
• Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the lavender buds to steep in the cooling syrup. After 15 minutes, taste the syrup to assess the flavor intensity. If you are satisfied with the lavender flavor, pour the syrup through a fine mesh sieve to strain out the buds. If you desire a stronger lavender essence, continue steeping for an additional 5 to 15 minutes, checking the flavor every 5 minutes until it meets your preference.
• Once strained, allow the syrup to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store your homemade lavender simple syrup in the refrigerator, where it will remain fresh for up to 1 month.

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Nutrition

Calories: 792kcal |
Carbohydrates: 204g |
Protein: 0.5g |
Fat: 1g |
Sodium: 14mg |
Potassium: 4mg |
Sugar: 200g |
Vitamin A: 135IU |
Vitamin C: 5mg |
Calcium: 108mg |
Iron: 1mg

Calories: 792kcal

Cuisine: Spring

Category: Booze