Flavourful syrups make tasty gifts
These delicious gifts also leave your kitchen smelling lovely
Has the thought of cookie baking got you down? Does even thinking about an endless stream of parchment paper tire you out? I’ve got your back because every year I figure out ways to make festive preparations a little less stressful and time-consuming. Cookie baking will happen on a smaller scale. And since making flavoured syrups as treats and gifts is easy in the prep and packaging department, your kitchen will be less hectic. A flavoured syrup can be made in less than 15 minutes, left overnight and bottled the next day. Clean, simple and it makes your kitchen smell delicious.
I love giving handmade, edible gifts because they disappear and become a delicious memory. And a delicious memory is one that people hold close to their hearts.
SYRUP TIPS
Pure cane sugar can be substituted for granulated sugar.
Sterilize the jars and lids you
are using for storing the syrup in boiling water and air dry on a clean towel.
You can reduce sugar up to
half the amount. The syrup won’t be as thick and should be kept refrigerated.
The recipes can be doubled.
Flavoured syrups are versatile.
Aside from flavouring hot beverages — don’t forget about mulled wine and cider — and cocktails, homemade syrup is fantastic on breakfast items. Use it on oatmeal, french toast, pancakes, waffles or crepes. For dessert, try it on ice cream, drizzled on cakes and in whipped cream. A touch can be added to roasted vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, parsnips and beets.