Herbal Simple Syrup Recipes: Lavender Simple Syrup, Vanilla Simple Syrup, & More!

Simple syrups can be used in so many different ways! You can mix them into cocktails and Italian sodas, drizzle them on desserts, or mix them into salad dressings. Making your own simple syrups is a must-have skill in any homestead and herbalist kitchen. 

Some of our favorite ways to use simple syrup include sweetening up tea or making fabulous cocktails and mocktails. Your syrups can be as simple as lavender or vanilla syrup, or as complicated as an herbally infused syrup. There are plenty of possibilities and ways to get creative here!

Today’s post is dedicated to all things simple syrup! We will be diving into the many reasons why homemade syrup is a better alternative to store-bought versions. Join us as we share our favorite ways to use simple syrup, the health benefits of these syrups, and some of our favorite recipes, including lavender simple syrup, cinnamon simple syrup, and vanilla simple syrup.

The Legal Stuff

This blog is provided by St. Fiacre's Farm LLC for informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, and you should always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any medical questions or concerns. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please note that we may earn a small commission on any purchases you make through our affiliate links, at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!

What is Simple Syrup?

Simple syrup is a liquid sweetener made by mixing equal amounts of water and sugar. This smooth syrup will add the perfect amount of sweetness to your favorite recipes without leaving any grainy sugar behind.

The process of making simple syrup is just as easy as the name suggests! All you need to do is heat water and sugar in a saucepan, stirring gently until the sugar is fully dissolved. 

On top of it being so easy to make, there are plenty of other reasons why we prefer homemade syrups over bottled options.

When you make your own, you have control over exactly what goes into each recipe. You can use ingredients that you trust and avoid any harmful chemicals, additives, dyes, and preservatives.

Homemade syrup is also more affordable than store-bought syrup. Making your own means you get to enjoy the same delicious flavors that you love, but for only a fraction of the cost. 

Perhaps our favorite thing, though, is that DIY syrups are easily customizable. You can make them with a variety of ingredients and flavors — from fruits to flowers and more! 

For example, our lavender simple syrup recipe uses the classic simple syrup ratio plus lavender buds for extra flavor and a health boost. Other recipes, like our elderberry syrup, boast a number of health benefits and amazing, concentrated flavor with a few simple ingredients.

Ways to Use Simple Syrup

It’s incredible how versatile simple syrups really are — once you start experimenting, you’ll find all kinds of ways to use them! These are some of the most common uses here on the farm.

• Sweetener for tea: Simple syrup will elevate any cup of tea if you want to add a little bit of sweetness. It mixes well in both hot and cold drinks!
• Cocktails and mocktails: Delicate lavender simple syrup, for example, adds a botanical element to drinks, elevating or enhancing the other flavors without floating herbs directly in the glass. 
• Baking: You can use simple syrup to add moisture to baked goods like cakes and keep them from drying out. Or, you can use them to infuse your flavor of choice into your recipes!
• Cooking: Try adding simple syrups to marinades and dressings or using syrup as a glaze for roasted veggies.

• Coffee: Take your latte or coffee-inspired beverage to the next level by mixing in a flavorful syrup. If you love the taste of coffee but can’t have the caffeine, you can enjoy simple syrups with any of our Not Coffee tea blends!

• Gift: What better way to share sweetness with your loved ones than by gifting them some homemade simple syrup? Prepare a batch, pour it into a glass bottle or jar, and decorate it with a pretty label or ribbon to make it complete. 

Our Favorite Homemade Herbal Simple Syrup Recipes

Below are all of our favorite simple syrup recipes, made with Farmhouse tea blends! Each one of these recipes is made with minimal ingredients and takes only a few minutes to prepare. Plus, the herbs that are used will add not only flavor but also benefits for your health. 

While these are some of our most frequently made syrups on the farm, we also recommend making simple syrups with our Kola and Root Beer Simple Syrup mixes and our Kombucha flavoring packets. We hope you love them as much as we do!

Lavender Simple Syrup

This syrup has a unique floral and herbal flavor. Lavender is a popular herb that is often associated with relief from the following conditions:

• Stress
• Anxiety
• Insomnia

Vanilla Simple Syrup

Vanilla is a classic flavor that will add a light and satisfying sweetness wherever it goes. Here are some of the benefits connected to vanilla: 

• Anti-inflammatory
• Rich in antioxidants
• Mood booster

Cinnamon Simple Syrup

Cinnamon is the best choice anytime you want to enjoy some spice. Some helpful benefits of cinnamon include the following:

• Supports blood sugar control
• Promotes heart health
• Rich in antioxidants
• Anti-inflammatory 

Chai Simple Syrup

Chai is a popular and tasty spice blend that is loaded with lots of health benefits, including these:

• Supports healthy digestion
• Anti-inflammatory
• Immune boosting
• Boosts energy and focus

Not Coffee Simple Syrup

If you love the flavor of coffee but are looking for a healthier alternative, you will love our Not Coffee products and our simple syrup made from our Plain Jane blend. Swapping out coffee can contribute to some of these health benefits:

• Decreased anxiety
• Increased sleep and energy levels
• Improved hormone health  

Hazelnut Simple Syrup

Hazelnuts provide a nutty, earthy flavor and are linked to the following health benefits:

• Rich in antioxidants
• Supports heart health
• Lower bad cholesterol
• Source of healthy fat and fiber

Caramel Simple Syrup

Caramel syrup has a rich, buttery sweetness. Here are some reasons why homemade caramel syrup is a healthier alternative to the store-bought version:

• Sweet and indulgent without the need for any artificial sweeteners
• Easy to personalize the flavor with salt or vanilla

Mocha Simple Syrup

With a smooth, chocolatey flavor, this mocha syrup features dandelion and chicory root, which are associated with these benefits:

• Improved digestion
• Anti-inflammatory
• Rich in antioxidants
• Supports liver health

Questions Often Asked About Simple Syrup Recipes

How long does homemade lavender simple syrup last?

When stored properly, simple syrup made from scratch will last for 2 to 3 weeks in the refrigerator. For the best storage results, make sure your syrup is strained properly and stored in a clean, airtight container.

Can you freeze simple syrup?

Yes! You can freeze simple syrup for 3 to 6 months. The best way to freeze simple syrup is by making ice cubes with it. If you freeze your syrup in cube form, you can use it straight out of the freezer to make iced beverages. Otherwise, thaw in the refrigerator before using in liquid form.

How do I make a richer simple syrup?

Every standard simple syrup recipe follows a 1:1 water-to-sugar ratio, but you can make a richer version of simple syrup by doubling the amount of sugar, using a 2:1 ratio instead. For a stronger flavor, simply increase the amount of spices, botanicals, or flavorings.

Sweetening Life Naturally One Syrup at a Time

Homemade simple syrup makes it easy to satisfy sweet cravings without having to deal with the effects of harmful ingredients. Whether you are cooking, baking, brewing a cup of tea, or searching for the perfect gift to give, simple syrup is sure to make any ordinary day sweeter. If you are interested in learning more about our Not Coffee alternatives, all of which can be enjoyed with simple syrup, be sure to download our FREE Coffee Lovers Guide to Loose-Leaf Tea!

More Tasty Recipes to Enjoy

• Easy Mocktail Recipes: Herbal, Kombucha, and More!
• How to Make Sweet Tea Concentrate
• Starbucks Copycat Summer Drink Recipes
• How to Make Rose Water
• Homemade Cocoa Bombs that are Festive & Fun
• Homemade Hot Chocolate Mix Recipe