Lavender, with its beautiful fragrance and delicate flavor, can elevate any recipe. One delightful way to incorporate lavender into your culinary repertoire is by making a homemade lavender simple syrup. This versatile syrup can be used to sweeten various beverages, from iced teas to cocktails. In this blog post, I’ll guide you through the simple process of creating lavender simple syrup using just four ingredients: sugar, water, lavender buds, and a touch of fresh lemon juice. Let’s dive in!
I like to use turbinado sugar for lavender simple syrup. Turbinado sugar has a mild molasses flavor similar to Demerara sugar, but it is generally lighter and less intense. It provides a subtle caramelized taste that can enhance the flavor of your simple syrup without overpowering it, allowing the floral nuances of the lavender to stand out. This can be particularly desirable if you prefer a more delicate sweetness in your drinks or desserts.
Lavendar Simple Syrup
Equipment
- saucepan
- tea infuser
Ingredients
- 1 cup turbinado sugar
- 1 cup water
- 3 tbsp lavender buds
- fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir the mixture until the sugar dissolves completely and just comes to a boil. This process usually takes around 5 minutes. Stirring prevents the sugar from sticking to the bottom of the pan and ensures even distribution. Once sugar is completely dissolved, turn off heat.
- Once the sugar has dissolved, add the lavender buds to the saucepan. Use a tea infuser, also often called a tea ball, to hold the lavender buds so you don't have to strain them out later. Stir them gently to incorporate them into the syrup mixture. Lavender buds can be purchased from specialty stores or online. Ensure you are using culinary-grade lavender that is free from any pesticides or chemicals.
- Squeeze in a few drops of fresh lemon juice. The lemon juice helps helps to preserve the slightly purple hue of the lavender buds and enhances the floral notes of the lavender.
- Steep the lavender buds in the syrup for about 20 minutes. This allows the flavors of the lavender to infuse into the syrup. Stir occasionally to make sure that all of the lavender buds in the tea infuser are saturated.
- Strain the syrup into a clean jar or bottle. If you don't have a tea infuser, then use a wire mesh strainer to strain the syrup. This step ensures that any bits of lavender are removed, leaving behind a smooth syrup. Allow the syrup to cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator
Usage and Storage:
Lavender simple syrup can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Here are some delightful ways to use your homemade syrup:
- Lavender Gin Fizz: Use lavender syrup instead of simple syrup for a unique and refreshing lavender flavor profile on a classic gin fizz cocktail.
- Lavender Lemonade: Mix lavender syrup with freshly squeezed lemon juice and cold water for a refreshing and aromatic twist on classic lemonade.
- Lavender Iced Tea: Add a splash of lavender syrup to your favorite iced tea for a floral and slightly sweetened version of this beloved beverage.
- Lavender Cocktails: Experiment with lavender syrup in other cocktails like lavender margaritas or lavender martinis. It adds a unique flavor profile that will impress your guests.
- Lavender-infused desserts: Drizzle the syrup over vanilla ice cream, incorporate it into homemade popsicles, or use it as a sweetener for lavender-flavored cakes, cupcakes, or cookies.
Creating lavender simple syrup is an easy and rewarding process that adds a touch of elegance to your beverages and desserts. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can make your own aromatic syrup that will enhance a variety of recipes. Enjoy the soothing scent and delicate taste of lavender with every sip or bite. Get creative and have fun experimenting with this delightful syrup in your favorite drinks and treats.