How to make lilac syrup from fresh lilac blossoms

Vibrant lilac blossoms are one of the first signs of spring. Did you know that lilac flowers were edible? They are! So, celebrate spring with this simple lilac syrup recipe. It has a sweet and subtle floral flavor – Straight from your lilac bushes!

Learn how to make this lilac simple syrup recipe below. All you need is lilac blossoms, sugar, and water.

Recipe first, the rest second

Been here before? You know how it is! Find my recipe directly below, then read the extra stuff and see some pics of the recipe below.

Lilac syrup recipe from fresh lilac blooms

Experience the captivating flavors of lilac with our homemade simple syrup. Crafted from fresh lilac blossoms, this floral-infused delight adds elegance to any dish. Drizzle over pancakes, desserts, or mix into beverages for a burst of floral sweetness.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Servings 2 cups

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Strainer or cheesecloth
• Measuring cups
• Spoon or whisk
• Airtight container

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups clean lilac flowers
• 1 cup white granulated sugar or honey
• 2 cups water

Instructions

 

• Step 1: Gather fresh lilac flowers. To start, gather fresh lilac flowers from your garden or a reliable source. Ensure that the flowers are free from pesticides or other harmful chemicals. Aim for about 2 cups of flowers when very gently pressed into a measuring cup.
• Step 2: Prepare the lilacs. Place the lilac flowers in a large bowl and gently rinse them with cold water. Shake off any excess moisture and let the flowers air dry for a few minutes. This helps remove any tiny bugs that might be hiding among the blossoms.
• Step 3: Make the simple syrup. In a small saucepan, combine 2 cups of water with 2 cups of granulated sugar. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely, creating a sugar syrup.
• Step 4: Infuse the lilacs. Once the sugar syrup is ready, add the lilac flowers and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Stir gently to ensure all the flowers are immersed in the syrup. If you have time, let the mixture infuse for at least 24 hours to extract the delightful flavors of the lilacs. Infuse it by transferring to an airtight container and letting the lilac syrup sit in the fridge overnight.
• Step 5: Strain and store. After the infusion period, place a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth over a medium saucepan. Carefully strain the lilac syrup through the sieve, removing the flowers and any impurities. Transfer the strained syrup into a sterilie jar or bottle and refrigerate for up to a few weeks.

Keyword lilac syrup, simple syrup

Are lilac flowers edible?

Yes! You can use flowers right from your lilac bush (which is a great addition to an edible garden, btw!). The blossoms of lilac plants are used to add a subtle floral flavor and aroma to food and drinks.

But – Not all varieties are edible! Use common lilacs (Syringa Vulgaris) or specifically designated edible lilac varieties.

And, make sure to follow the general rules of foraging – Ensure the bushes are pesticide, chemical, and contaminant free. Always wash the lilac blossoms before use and remove the green parts and stems, as they can have a bitter taste. Read more beginner’s foraging tips here.

Read more about edible flowers in this research study.

Where can I find lilacs?

In our corner of BC, lilacs are found in most people’s gardens as they do not often grow wild and are a cultivated plant. While foraging for them in the wild isn’t totally impossible, most of the lilacs you will find will be in residential spaces or on the edge of a forest. You may also find them growing in rural areas and abandoned homesteads, for example.

What can you use the lilac simple syrup for?

Lilacs can be used to infuse syrups, create floral jellies, flavor baked goods, garnish salads, or add a touch of elegance to desserts and drinks. However, moderation is key, as the flavor of lilacs can be quite strong! Start with small amounts and adjust by taste.

Make lilac syrup for:

1. Lilac Lemonade: Add a splash of lilac syrup to freshly squeezed lemon juice for a refreshing and floral twist.
   • Get my recipe here!
2. Lilac Iced Tea: Infuse your favorite iced tea with lilac syrup to create a unique and aromatic beverage for hot summer days.
3. Lilac Cocktails: Enhance the flavors of your cocktails by incorporating lilac syrup. Experiment with combinations like lilac mojitos or lilac spritzers for a delightful twist.
4. Lilac Desserts: Drizzle lilac syrup over pancakes, waffles, ice cream, or yogurt for an enchanting floral flavor.
5. Baking with Lilac Syrup: Use lilac syrup as a natural sweetener in baked goods such as cakes, cookies, and muffins for a subtle floral touch.

How to store lilac simple syrup

You can store your lilac syrup in the fridge or by freezing it. Here’s how!

To store lilac simple syrup in the fridge:

1. Once the syrup cools completely, transfer the lilac syrup into a clean, airtight container. Glass jars or bottles with a tight-fitting lid work well for this purpose.
   1. Ensure that the container is clean and dry to maintain the freshness of the syrup.
2. Place the container in the refrigerator. The cool temperature will help preserve the syrup and prevent spoilage.
   1. Make sure the lid is tightly sealed to prevent air from entering and affecting the quality of the syrup.
3. Label the container with the date of preparation to keep track of its shelf life. If preserved, it will last a few weeks.

To freeze lilac syrup:

1. Transfer the lilac syrup into ice cube trays or small freezer-safe containers.
   1. Leave some headspace in the containers as the syrup may expand slightly during freezing.
2. Place the trays or containers in the freezer and allow the lilac syrup to freeze until solid.
   1. Tip: Once frozen, remove the lilac syrup cubes from the trays and transfer them to a labeled freezer-safe bag or container for easier storage.
   2. Make sure to remove as much air as possible from the bag or container before sealing it tightly.
3. Return the lilac syrup cubes to the freezer and use them as needed.

Lilac syrup variations

While the classic lilac syrup is delightful on its own, you can also explore variations to add more depth to your creations. Consider these ideas:

1. Lilac-Berry Syrup: Add a handful of fresh blueberries or raspberries during the infusion process to infuse the syrup with a hint of fruity goodness.
   • Or, better yet, use haskap berries!
2. Lilac-Mint Syrup: Introduce a burst of freshness by incorporating a few sprigs of fresh mint along with the lilac flowers. This combination adds a delightful twist to your beverages.
3. Lilac-Herbal Infusion: Experiment with other edible flowers and herbs like lavender, chamomile, or rosemary to create unique flavor profiles that complement the lilac syrup. Opt for something that complements the floral flavor of lilac.

Frequently asked questions about lilac simple syrup

Conclusion

In conclusion, lilac syrup is a captivating and versatile ingredient that brings the essence of lilac flowers to your culinary adventures. With its delicate floral flavor and aroma, this delicious lilac syrup can elevate beverages, desserts, and savory dishes with a touch of enchantment.

By following a simple recipe and exploring various creative uses, you can unlock the potential of lilac syrup in your kitchen. So, embrace the magic of lilac syrup and indulge in its captivating flavors!

Thank you for reading. ♡

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