Lilac Honey Recipe: How to Make Floral Infused Honey

There is something about lilacs that makes me want to slow down and take my time. Their fragrance, their delicate flowers, and that beautiful moment each spring when they are blooming all seem to invite you to pause and appreciate them.

Making lilac honey is a simple way to preserve a little bit of that season. Once you have gathered your lilacs, you’ll want to prepare the individual florets for use. This is probably the most time-consuming part of the recipe, but I find there is something enjoyable about taking the time to separate each little flower and prepare it by hand.

When your florets are ready, fill a clean 4-ounce glass jar with the lilac flowers. Then slowly pour your honey over the top.

I love using local honey whenever I can. Beyond the honey itself, supporting local beekeepers and farmers and building relationships with the people who grow, raise, and produce the things we use holds a special place in my heart.

Pour enough honey into the jar to completely cover the flowers. Gently stir or press the flowers down with a clean utensil if needed, making sure they are surrounded by honey.

Place the lid on the jar and keep it in a cool, dark place while the lilacs infuse. Over the next few weeks, turn the jar every few days, allowing the honey to move around the flowers and coat them completely.

Give it time.

After about 30 days, your lilac honey will be ready to use. At this point, you can strain out the flowers or leave them right where they are.

Personally, I like to keep the flowers in the honey. There is something beautiful about opening the jar and seeing those little lilac blossoms still suspended inside. Every time I use it, I’m reminded of the season when I gathered them and the beauty that was there.

A note on storage: Because fresh flowers contain moisture, infused honey made with fresh lilacs should be monitored carefully and stored according to safe food-preservation practices. If you notice fermentation, bubbling, mold, or an off smell, discard the preparation.

And now comes the fun part.

How will you use your lilac honey?

Maybe stirred into tea, drizzled over breakfast, used in baking, or simply enjoyed by the spoonful. Whatever you choose, I hope it brings a little bit of spring with it.