Can I Use Flavored Honey to Make Honey Syrup?

jar of honey syrup made with lavender honey and stirred with a spoon

Using flavored honey is not just possible—it’s one of the best ways to personalize your honey syrup. Whether you have lavender, orange blossom, or another infused honey, these options can unlock unexpected layers of aroma and taste in both classic and modern cocktails.

Why Flavored Honey Elevates Homemade Honey Syrup

Honey isn’t just sweet. Its floral, herbal, or citrus notes come alive once mixed with water into a syrup. Using a distinct variety—like wildflower, eucalyptus, or acacia—adds dimension without changing your syrup technique.

Lavender honey brings a subtle, savory floral layer ideal for gin or vodka cocktails.
Orange blossom honey imparts a gentle citrus accent, brightening whiskey sours or tequila drinks.
Buckwheat or chestnut honey offers earthy, malty undertones—great with dark rum or aged spirits.

How to Make Honey Syrup With Any Honey

The process for making honey syrup does not change depending on the honey type. You’ll get reliable dilution and smooth mixing with cold drinks every time.

Mix 60 ml flavored honey with 60 ml hot water in a heatproof container.
Stir until the honey is fully dissolved—no granules or cloudiness.
Cool completely before bottling. Store in the fridge up to 2 weeks.

Tips for Maximum Flavor in Syrup

Use a strong-flavored honey if you want the note to shine through citrus or bold spirits.
Light honeys (clover, acacia) yield subtle syrup; darker ones (buckwheat) give rich, deep tone.
To intensify, infuse finished syrup with additional botanicals—try adding orange zest or a sprig of thyme while cooling.

clear bottle of homemade honey syrup with herbs on a kitchen counter

Best Cocktails for Flavored Honey Syrup

Lavender honey syrup: bee’s knees, gin fizz, vodka Collins
Orange blossom honey syrup: penicillin, whiskey daisy, Tommy’s margarita
Buckwheat honey syrup: old fashioned, barrel-aged rum sour

Start with the same honey syrup ratio and experiment with any honey you have on hand. You’ll notice even a simple drink is transformed by the aromatics and subtle complexity unique to that honey—no extra effort required.