If you’re a fan of floral flavors, you’re going to love this lilac simple syrup canning recipe. Lilacs are a beautiful and fragrant flower that bloom in the springtime, and they make a delicious addition to co*cktails, lemonade, and other beverages. With this recipe, you can capture the essence of lilacs and enjoy their unique flavor all year long.
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To make this lilac syrup, you’ll need just a few ingredients: fresh lilac blossoms, sugar, and water. The process is simple: you’ll steep the lilacs in a sugar and water mixture, strain out the blossoms, and then can the syrup for long-term storage. The result is a sweet and floral syrup that’s perfect for adding to drinks or drizzling over pancakes or ice cream.
This lilac syrup canning recipe is a great way to preserve the beauty and flavor of lilacs. Whether you grow your own lilacs or buy them from a local florist, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So grab some blossoms and get ready to enjoy the taste of spring all year long!
Gathering Ingredients
Before you start making lilac simple syrup, you need to gather all the ingredients. Here are the three main components of the recipe: lilac flowers, sweeteners, and additional flavorings.
Selecting Lilacs
The first step is to select lilacs that are fresh and fragrant. You can use any variety of lilac, but the common lilac (Syringa vulgaris) is the most popular choice. Make sure the flowers are free of any dirt, debris, or insects.
Choosing Sweeteners
Sugar is the most common sweetener used in lilac simple syrup, but you can also use honey or a combination of both. For a healthier option, you can use stevia or agave nectar. Keep in mind that the amount of sweetener you use will depend on your personal preference and the sweetness of the lilac flowers.
Additional Flavorings
To enhance the flavor of your lilac simple syrup, you can add a splash of lemon juice, a dash of vanilla extract, or a pinch of grated ginger. These ingredients will complement the floral notes of the lilac flowers and give your syrup a unique taste.
Now that you have gathered all the necessary ingredients, it’s time to start making your lilac simple syrup.
Preparing Lilac Simple Syrup
If you want to make a delicious lilac simple syrup, you need to start with fresh, clean lilacs. Here’s how to prepare your lilacs for the syrup-making process.
Cleaning and Prepping Lilacs
First, you need to gather your lilacs. Make sure to pick them on a dry day, and avoid picking them after a rainstorm. Rinse the lilacs gently in cool water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, use a fine mesh sieve to remove any insects or other unwanted particles.
Next, you need to remove the lilac flowers from the stems. Hold the stem with one hand and use your other hand to gently pull the flowers off. Discard the stems and any green parts of the flowers, as they can give the syrup a bitter taste.
Related Article:Canning Strawberry Syrup
Creating the Syrup Base
To create the syrup base, you’ll need to make a simple syrup. In a saucepan, combine equal parts water and sugar. For example, if you’re using one cup of water, you’ll need one cup of sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved completely.
Infusing the Syrup
Once the simple syrup is ready, it’s time to infuse it with the lilac flowers. Add the prepared lilac flowers to the simple syrup and stir gently to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer over low heat, and let it steep for about 20 minutes.
Pour the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or strainer to remove the flowers from the liquid. Heat liquid up again, until just simmering.Your lilac simple syrup is now ready to can.
Canning and Storing Syrup
Once you’ve made your syrup, you’ll want to store it properly to ensure it stays fresh and delicious. Here’s how to can and store your simple syrup.
Related Article:Lavender Simple Syrup Recipe
Sterilizing Jars
Before you start the canning process, it’s important to sterilize your jars to prevent any bacteria from growing. You can sterilize your jars by boiling them in a large pot of water for 10 minutes. Make sure the jars are completely submerged in the water and that there is enough water to cover them by at least an inch. You can also sterilize them by running them through a quick rinse in the dishwasher.
Canning Process
To can your simple syrup, follow these steps:
- Fill a boiling water cannerabout half way with water and bring it to a boil.
- Fill the sterilized jars with your lilac simple syrup, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top. You can easily measure the headspace with this inexpensive canning funnel.
- Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue or stickiness.
- Place the lids on the jars and tighten the bands until they are snug but not too tight.
- Place the jars back in the boiling water canner, making sure they are covered with 1-2 inches of water and process them for 10 minutes.
- Remove the jars from the water and let them cool on a towel on the kitchen counter.
Your simple syrup is now safely canned and can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year.Use it to sweeten tea, lemonade, co*cktails, or any other beverage that could use a touch of floral sweetness.
Storage Tips
If you don’t want to go through the canning process, you can also store your lilac simple syrup in the refrigerator or freezer. Simply pour the syrup into a clean, airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to a month or in the freezer for up to 6 months.
It’s important to note that lilac simple syrup is safe for boiling water canning because it has a high enough acidity level. However, if you make any changes to the recipe or use a different type of flower, you may need to adjust the acidity level to ensure it is safe for canning.
Now that you know how to can and store your lilac simple syrup, you can enjoy the delicate flavor of lilacs all year round.
Related Article:Ginger Simple Syrup
Serving Suggestions
Lilac simple syrup is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of ways to add a floral touch to your favorite foods and drinks. Here are some serving suggestions to get you started:
Lilac Syrup in Drinks
Lilac syrup can add a unique flavor to a variety of beverages. Try adding it to lemonade for a refreshing and floral twist on a classic drink. You can also add it to iced tea or co*cktails for a more adult beverage option. If you’re a coffee lover, try adding a splash of lilac syrup to your morning cup of joe for a floral take on your favorite brew.
Related Article:Rose Syrup
Dessert Applications
Lilac syrup can also be used to add a sweet and floral flavor to desserts. Drizzle it over vanilla ice cream for a simple yet elegant dessert. You can also use it as a topping for pancakes or waffles for a breakfast treat that is sure to impress. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using lilac syrup in a fruit salad or as a glaze for baked goods.
Breakfast Delights
Speaking of breakfast, lilac syrup can be used in a variety of breakfast dishes to add a unique flavor. Try adding it to your favorite pancake or waffle recipe for a floral twist on a classic breakfast dish. You can also use it as a topping for oatmeal or yogurt for a sweet and floral breakfast treat.
Overall, lilac simple syrup is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of ways to add a floral touch to your favorite foods and drinks. Experiment with different recipes and serving suggestions to find your favorite way to use this delicious syrup.
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Lilac Syrup Canning Recipe
Easy recipe for canning lilac simple syrup for co*cktails, flavored iced tea, flavoring kombucha, and more. Easy canning recipe for beginners.
Course:Drinks
Ingredients
- 10cupssugar
- 10 cupswater
- 6-8cupslilac flowers
Instructions
Place sugar and water in a large stock pot. Simmer sugar and water mixture until sugar dissolves. Turn off heat.
Gently remove the lilac flowers from the stems and rinse in a colander like this one to remove any dirt and insects. Place the rinsed lilac flowers in the stock pot. Stir. Bring the mixture to a simmer over low heat, and let it steep for about 20 minutes.
Pour the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or strainer to remove the flowers from the liquid. Heat liquid up again, until just simmering. Pour the liquid into sterilized pint sized canning jars, leaving 1/2 inch head space. You can easily measure the head space with this inexpensive canning funnel.
Wipe rims of jars with a damp paper towel or dish towel and place sterilized lids and rings on jars.
Place jars in a boiling water canner and make sure you have 1 inch of water above the tops of the jars. Add additional water if necessary. Bring water to a boil and boil for 10 minutes.
Remove jars from canner and place jars on a towel on the kitchen counter to cool. Lids will make a pinging noise when they seal. If in a couple of hours the lid isn't flat and sealed, then place the jar(s) in the refrigerator to use in the next couple of weeks. Sealed jars can be stored in a cool dark place for 1-2 years.
Related Article:When to Cut Back Lilacs: Tips and Tricks for Pruning Success
Creative Uses and Gift Ideas
Lilac simple syrup is not only a delicious addition to your favorite beverages, but it can also make a unique and thoughtful gift for your loved ones. Here are some creative uses and gift ideas for your homemade lilac simple syrup:
Homemade Gift Options
- Lilac Sparkling Water: Mix a few tablespoons of lilac simple syrup with sparkling water for a refreshing and aromatic drink. Package the syrup and a bottle of sparkling water in a gift basket for a unique and tasty gift.
- Lilac Ice Cubes: Freeze lilac simple syrup in an ice cube tray and add to your favorite drinks for a burst of floral flavor. Package the ice cubes in a mason jar with a ribbon for a charming and practical gift.
- Lilac Sugar: Mix lilac simple syrup with granulated sugar and let it dry to make lilac sugar. Use it to sweeten your tea, coffee, or baked goods. Package the lilac sugar in a decorative jar with a label for a sweet and thoughtful gift.
Decorative Ideas
- Edible Flower Garnish: Use lilac flowers as a garnish for your co*cktails and desserts. Dip the flowers in lilac simple syrup and let them dry before using them as a decoration.
- Lilac Syrup Bottles: Pour the lilac simple syrup into decorative bottles and add a label with the recipe and serving suggestions. It makes a lovely and unique gift for any occasion.
Lilac simple syrup is a versatile and delightful ingredient that can be used in many ways. With these creative uses and gift ideas, you can share the joy of lilac with your friends and family.
Related Article:Rhubarb Simple Syrup
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the process for canning simple syrup to ensure its longevity?
To can lilac simple syrup, pour the hot syrup into sterilized jars leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Wipe the rims with a clean cloth and seal with sterilized lids and bands. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Remove the jars and let them cool completely before storing them in a cool, dark place.
What are some creative co*cktail recipes using lilac simple syrup?
Lilac simple syrup can be used to add a unique floral flavor to many co*cktails. Try adding it to a classic gin and tonic, or mix it with vodka and lemon juice for a refreshing lilac lemon drop. You can also use it to sweeten iced tea or lemonade.
Are there any special considerations when using lilac syrup in drinks?
Lilac syrup can be quite sweet, so it’s important to use it sparingly in co*cktails. A little goes a long way! Additionally, the flavor of lilac can be easily overwhelmed by other strong flavors, so it’s best to pair it with lighter ingredients.
What are the best practices for preserving the flavor of lilac in syrup form?
To preserve the flavor of lilac in syrup form, store it in a cool, dark place away from sunlight and heat. Use sterilized jars and lids to prevent contamination, and make sure to strain out any solids before storing.
Are there any known adverse reactions to consuming lilac syrup?
While lilac flowers are edible, they can cause mild digestive upset in some people. Additionally, some people may be allergic to lilac and should avoid consuming it. As with any new food or drink, it’s best to start with a small amount and monitor your body’s reaction.
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