March 01, 2018
How to Make Simple Syrup: 6 Floral-Inspired Recipes
Springtime has a way of reminding us of the beauty all around us, especially the blooming flowers. Bright floral blooms and warmer weather echo the change of the seasons, just as our tastes do. We begin to crave lighter, more refreshing flavors, so why not celebrate them in our favorite beverages?
Edible flowers provide a more direct way to incorporate spring blooms into refreshing libations, but have you thought about infusing those favors into a simple syrup? To help you get a jumpstart, we’re going to show you how to make simple syrup. With six floral-inspired recipes, you’ll be on your way to not only celebrating the season, but toasting it too!
What is Simple Syrup?
Simple syrup is a common sweetener used in plenty of beverages from cocktails to coffee. The beauty of making your own simple syrup is that it’s just that, simple. Homemade simple syrup only requires two ingredients, which you can easily infuse with any of your favorite flavors. From herbs and fruit to flowers and spices, the options are almost endless.
In this tutorial, we’re highlighting our favorite floral flavors. Browse through the simple syrup recipes below to elevate your springtime beverages. Before we get started, let’s go through the supplies you’ll need.
Simple Syrup Supplies
Water – The amount of water you’ll need will depend on how much simple syrup you’d like to make. This recipe calls for 1 cup.
Granulated Sugar – You’ll need to have at least 1 cup of sugar on hand to make your simple syrup.
Assorted Florals – You’ll be using flowers to infuse those flavors into your syrup. In this tutorial, we’ll be walking through rose, hibiscus and lavender flavored syrups.
Saucepan – A medium-sized saucepan should do the trick.
Measuring Cups – Standard measuring cups will help you measure out both amounts of water and sugar.
Nonreactive Bowl – A nonreactive bowl will be used to infuse the florals into your syrup. Nonreactive items include glass, enamel or stainless steel.
Funnel – A funnel will make it easier for you to transfer your finished simple syrup from the saucepan into a decorative jar.
Decorative Jar – Select a decorative jar you’d like to display your simple syrup in, and make sure it’s at least 16 oz.
Now that you have everything you need for making simple syrup, follow the step-by-step instructions below:
How to Make Simple Syrup Step-by-Step
Makes 1 ½ Cups
Step 1: Heat the water. Add 1 cup of water to a saucepan and heat over a medium-low flame.
Step 2: Add 1 cup of sugar to the water. Stir the sugar into the water until it dissolves. Allow the mixture to come to a simmer and then remove it from the heat.
Pro Tip: For a thicker syrup, use a 2:1 ratio of sugar to water.
Step 3: Add the flower you’ll be using for infusion to a nonreactive bowl and pour hot syrup over the top. Let the mixture sit for at least 30 minutes. You’ll find specific measurements for each flower below.
Tulip Syrup: Use 1 cup of tulip petals.
Rose Syrup: Use 2 cups of rose petals.
Carnation Syrup: Use 1 cup of carnation petals.
Lavender Syrup: Use 3 tablespoons of lavender buds.
Orchid Syrup: Use 1 ½ cups orchid petals.
Pansy Syrup: Use 1 cup of pansy petals.
Step 4: Let the syrup cool down. After the syrup has cooled, strain the flower petals out of the mixture. Then, use a funnel to transfer it into a decorative jar.
Step 5: Add to your favorite beverage and enjoy! Browse through the floral cocktails below to find something that suits you.
Pro Tip: Your simple syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 months.
Cocktail Recipes Perfect for Your Simple Syrup
Now that you have floral simple syrup on hand, use the following cocktail recipes to create a drink menu that is just as delicious as it is beautiful. If you’re still looking for more inspiration after browsing the list below, check out our full collection here.
Flowers are the perfect garnish and so much more! If you’ve ever wondered how to make floral simple syrup, there’s no need to question anymore. Elevate all of your favorite beverages with these floral simple syrup recipes. Share what you create by tagging us on social @proflowers. Can’t wait to see what you come up with. Cheers!