Simple syrup is easy to make at home, but did you know that you can use other sweeteners and herbs to make it extra special? Lavender’s floral flavor pairs well with coffee and cocktails, but you could also use this method with rosemary or mint to create more flavor variations. Use lavender simple syrup to make a lavender latte that tastes better than the one from Starbucks!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make lavender simple syrup you’ll need water, dried lavender flowers, and your favorite sweetener. I use honey to mimic a local coffee shop here in Kansas City, but you can use white sugar, coconut sugar, or maple syrup if you prefer. Be sure to read the substitution tips below, as the amounts needed will vary.
How to Make Lavender Syrup
In a small saucepan combine the water, honey, and dried lavender. Bring the liquid to a boil. Stir often to make sure the honey dissolves and continue to simmer for 1 minute. Then turn off the heat and let the lavender steep in the hot liquid for 30 minutes. When your timer goes off, taste the mixture and make sure there’s enough lavender flavor to your liking. If you want a stronger batch, you can let the lavender steep for an additional 30 minutes. Arrange a fine mesh strainer over a storage jar or measuring cup, then pour the liquid through the strainer to strain out the lavender buds. The strained syrup is ready to use right away in your favorite beverages. (It’s also delicious drizzled over overnight oats!) Store leftover syrup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Alternative Sweetener Options
Honey is a concentrated sweetener, so you won’t use the same ratio when substituting granulated sugar in this lavender simple syrup recipe. Lavender Latte: Add 2 tablespoons of lavender syrup to 2 shots of espresso and add in 6 to 8 ounces of cold or steamed milk, depending on if you want an iced or hot latte.
To use brown sugar, white sugar, or coconut sugar, use 1 cup sugar per 1 cup of water. Boil and whisk the mixture often, until the granulated sugar dissolves, then steep as directed. If you prefer to use maple syrup as the sweetener, use 3/4 cup maple syrup to replace the 1/2 cup honey, and reduce the water to 3/4 cup in that case.
Looking for more fun drink ideas? Try my Easy Mocktail, Basil Lemonade, or Iced Chai Latte for more ideas. If you try this homemade lavender simple syrup, please leave a comment and star rating below letting me know how you like it.
