Lavender Simple Syrup Recipe (Perfect for Cocktails & Mocktails
If you've ever wondered what to do with dried culinary lavender, this simple syrup is one of the easiest, and most delicious, places to start.
It takes just a few ingredients and can transform sparkling water, lemonade, cocktails, iced tea, or homemade sodas into something that feels a little more special.
Lavender Simple Syrup Recipe
Ingredients
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1 cup water
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1 cup granulated sugar
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2 tablespoons dried culinary lavender buds
Directions
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Combine the water and sugar in a small saucepan.
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Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
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Remove from the heat and stir in the lavender.
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Cover and steep for 20–30 minutes, depending on how floral you'd like the flavor.
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Strain through a fine mesh sieve.
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Allow to cool completely.
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Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Lavender Sparkling Water
The easiest place to start.
Fill a glass with ice and combine:
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Sparkling water
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1–2 tablespoons lavender syrup
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Fresh lemon juice
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Lemon slices
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Fresh lavender sprig (optional)
Refreshing, lightly floral, and perfect on a warm afternoon.
Lavender Lemonade
Mix together:
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Homemade or prepared lemonade
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1–2 tablespoons lavender syrup
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Ice
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Lemon slices
This is a wonderful drink for garden parties, bridal showers, or simply enjoying on the porch.
Lavender Iced Tea
Add a splash of lavender syrup to:
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Black tea
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Green tea
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Chamomile tea
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Earl Grey
Serve over ice with fresh mint or lemon.
Lavender Mocktail
Try combining:
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2 tablespoons lavender syrup
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Sparkling water
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Splash of cranberry juice
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Fresh lime juice
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Ice
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Garnish with rosemary, mint, lemon or lime slices
It's beautiful, refreshing, and feels like a special occasion.
Lavender Cocktail Ideas
Lavender pairs beautifully with botanical spirits and citrus flavors.
Try adding lavender syrup to:
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Gin & tonic
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French 75
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Vodka lemonade
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Champagne cocktails
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Vodka soda with fresh lemon
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Bee's Knees made with honey and lavender syrup
Always start with a small amount, you can add more, but lavender is naturally floral and a little goes a long way.
Tips for Cooking with Lavender
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Use culinary-grade lavender.
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English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) has the sweetest flavor.
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Avoid using ornamental lavender treated with pesticides.
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Don't over-steep or overuse the flowers, as the flavor can become bitter or overly perfumed.
More Ways to Use Lavender
Looking for even more inspiration?
Explore our Lavender Field Guide to learn about harvesting, skincare uses, herbal traditions, aromatherapy, and safe ways to enjoy one of nature's most beloved herbs.
Whether you're making homemade drinks, relaxing with a cup of tea, or enjoying lavender-infused skincare, this beautiful herb has a way of turning ordinary moments into something memorable.
