How to Make Lilac Simple Syrup

Lilac simple syrup captures the essence of Spring. Add it to your favorite drinks or baked goods for a sweet, floral note that makes everything taste extra special.

Are the lilacs blooming in your area? As of this writing, they are in full and glorious swing around the Lavender Blue Cottage.

The lilac blossoms have turned regular old shrubs into stunning Spring displays. Their clusters of delicate purple, pink or white blossoms have a delicate aroma that embodies the essence of spring.

I know these flowers won’t last long, but did you know you can quite literally bottle their essence and save it for later?

Today I’m making a lilac simple syrup that smells and tastes just like the real thing. I’ll whip it out later when I need to feel a little extra spring (pun intended) in my step.

What Does Lilac Simple Syrup Taste Like?

In my opinion, lilac simple syrup tastes just like it smells – sweet, subtle, and floral. Some people even find it slightly citrusy, in a refreshing way. Lilac syrup has a delicate enough scent and flavor to give your drinks or baked goods a special aromatic note.

If you like a hint of floral flavor, you’ll love lilac simple syrup.

How to You Use Lilac Simple Syrup?

I like to use lilac syrup as an add-in for beverages like lemonade, tea, and Crio Bru. You can pour a little bit into cocktails or mocktails or even plain or sparkling water.

If you want to be really fancy, you can add a bit of lilac simple syrup to things like whipped cream or cake frosting. Drizzle it over pound cake, muffins, or sweet bread. You can even use it alongside regular syrup to top pancakes and waffles.

Just remember that a little goes a long way and using too much syrup can taste a bit soapy. Start with small amounts and add more as you desire.

How to Remove Lilac Petals from Stems

Don’t be intimidated at the thought of plucking hundreds of tiny flower petals from their stems. It’s actually pretty easy! Begin with giving your branches a good shake. Check for any bugs, dust or debris that might be hanging on.

If your lilac flowers are fully open, you can grab a cluster, pinch at the base of the stem, and run your fingers down the cluster while applying gentle pressure. If you find any big pieces of green stem left in your harvest, just toss those out.

Note: Make sure you are using edible lilacs that have not been treated with pesticides!

Supplies and Ingredients

Here is what you’ll need to get started on this recipe:

• 1 cup of fresh lilac blossoms, tightly packed (avoid any green parts, as these are more bitter)
• 1 cup of boiling water
• 1 cup of sugar (I used organic cane sugar)
• 10 or so blueberries (optional, for adding color to the syrup – you could also try using a few blackberries instead)
• A resealable glass jar with a lid

How to Make Lilac Simple Syrup

Gather your plucked lilac blossoms and measure out 1 cup of petals, tightly packed.

In a medium saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil and remove it from the heat. Add 1 cup of sugar. Stir until the sugar crystals are dissolved.

Add your lilac blooms to the water/sugar mixture along with any berries you are using for color. Cover the lilac mixture and allow it to sit and steep for 2-3 hours.

Once steeping has finished, pour your lilac syrup through a fine mesh sieve to remove all the petals and berries. Transfer your syrup to clean glass containers and cover it with a lid.

Enjoy adding lilac syrup taste to everything you see!

Printable Recipe Card

Storing Lilac Syrup

I like to keep my lilac simple syrup in a sealed glass jar. Keep it in the refrigerator, and it’ll have a shelf life of 1-2 weeks.

If you want longer storage, pour your syrup into an ice cube tray and freeze. Frozen lilac syrup can last 2-3 months in the freezer.

More to Enjoy

Go grab yourself some beautiful lilacs and give this lavender simple syrup recipe a try today or save it for next spring. It’s a great addition that will elevate many of your favorite drinks and treats.

If you’ve got a foodie friend, make one for them too, because this is one of those specialty items you won’t find at the grocery store.

If you’re interested in this recipe, then I’ve got several others that I think you’ll absolutely love!

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