How to Make Lavender Syrup

Lavender syrup is a fragrant, floral sweetener that adds a delicate touch to coffee, tea, lemonade, cocktails, desserts, and baked goods. Made with just a few simple ingredients, homemade lavender syrup is easy to prepare and tastes far fresher than store-bought versions. The subtle floral flavor pairs beautifully with citrus, berries, honey, vanilla, and creamy drinks, making it a versatile addition to your kitchen.

Whether you’re creating a lavender latte, sparkling lemonade, or drizzling it over pancakes, this simple syrup recipe delivers a lovely balance of sweetness and aromatic lavender flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Made with only 3 simple ingredients
• Perfect for coffee, tea, and cocktails
• Easy to make in under 20 minutes
• Naturally flavored
• Stores well in the refrigerator
• More affordable than store-bought syrups
• Customizable sweetness and strength
• Beautiful floral aroma

Prep Time, Cook Time & Yield

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Steeping Time: 15–30 minutes

Total Time: 30–45 minutes

Yield: About 1½ cups syrup

Ingredients

• 1 cup (240ml) water
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons culinary dried lavender buds

Optional Additions

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Lemon peel
• Purple food coloring (for appearance only)

Equipment Needed

• Small saucepan
• Fine mesh strainer
• Wooden spoon
• Glass jar or bottle for storage

Instructions

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In a small saucepan, add:

• Water
• Sugar
• Dried culinary lavender buds

Stir to combine.

Step 2: Heat the Mixture

Place the saucepan over medium heat.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally until the sugar completely dissolves.

Temperature: About 190–200°F (88–93°C)

Do not boil vigorously, as excessive heat can create a bitter lavender flavor.

Step 3: Simmer Briefly

Once the sugar has dissolved, reduce the heat to low.

Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.

Remove from heat.

Step 4: Steep the Lavender

Allow the lavender to steep in the syrup for 15–30 minutes.

For a lighter floral flavor, steep for 15 minutes.

For a stronger lavender taste, steep for up to 30 minutes.

Avoid steeping too long, as the syrup may become overly floral or slightly bitter.

Step 5: Strain

Pour the syrup through a fine mesh strainer into a clean bowl or measuring cup.

Discard the lavender buds.

If using vanilla extract or honey, stir it in while the syrup is still warm.

Step 6: Cool

Allow the syrup to cool completely to room temperature.

As it cools, it will thicken slightly.

Step 7: Store

Transfer the cooled syrup to a clean glass bottle or airtight jar.

Refrigerate until ready to use.

Tips for the Best Lavender Syrup

Use Culinary Lavender

Always use food-grade culinary lavender. Decorative or craft lavender may not be suitable for consumption.

Don’t Over-Steep

Too much steeping can produce a perfume-like flavor.

Adjust Sweetness

For a lighter syrup, use ¾ cup sugar instead of 1 cup.

Make It Rich Syrup

For a thicker syrup, use:

• 1 cup water
• 2 cups sugar

This creates a richer syrup ideal for coffee drinks.

Strain Well

A fine mesh strainer ensures a smooth syrup without lavender particles.

Delicious Ways to Use Lavender Syrup

Lavender Latte

Add 1–2 tablespoons to hot or iced coffee with milk.

Lavender Lemonade

Mix 2 tablespoons syrup into fresh lemonade.

Sparkling Lavender Soda

Combine syrup with sparkling water and ice.

Tea Sweetener

Stir into black tea, green tea, or herbal tea.

Cocktails

Use in:

• Gin cocktails
• Vodka spritzers
• Champagne drinks
• Margaritas

Pancakes and Waffles

Drizzle over breakfast favorites for a floral twist.

Desserts

Use in:

• Cakes
• Cupcakes
• Frostings
• Ice cream
• Cheesecake

Flavor Variations

Lavender Vanilla Syrup

Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract after straining.

Honey Lavender Syrup

Replace half the sugar with honey.

Lavender Lemon Syrup

Add strips of lemon peel during steeping.

Lavender Rose Syrup

Combine 1 tablespoon lavender buds with 1 tablespoon dried rose petals.

Lavender Mint Syrup

Add a few fresh mint leaves while steeping.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 weeks.

Freezer

Freeze in ice cube trays and store frozen cubes for up to 6 months.

Nutritional Information

Per Tablespoon (Approximate)

• Calories: 50
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Sugar: 13g
• Fat: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Sodium: 0mg

Values may vary depending on ingredient brands and measurements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Fresh Lavender?

Yes. Use approximately 3–4 tablespoons fresh culinary lavender flowers in place of dried lavender.

Why Does My Syrup Taste Bitter?

The lavender likely steeped too long or was boiled too aggressively.

Can I Make It Sugar-Free?

Yes. Replace sugar with a sugar substitute designed for syrup-making, such as allulose.

How Much Syrup Should I Use in Coffee?

Start with 1 tablespoon and adjust to taste.

What Does Lavender Syrup Taste Like?

It has a lightly sweet, floral flavor with subtle herbal notes and a pleasant aroma.