The Dreamy Empress Lavender Lemonade is a refreshing and elegant cocktail featuring Empress 1908 Indigo Gin, fresh lemons, and homemade lavender syrup, and is the perfect balance of floral and citrus flavors!

I partnered with Empress Gin 1908 to mix up the Dreamy Gin Lavender Lemonade recipe! Recipe and ideas are my own.

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Empress Gin Lavender Lemonade

The Dreamy Empress Lavender Lemonade is a total game changer when it comes to batch cocktails! This perfect drink is a simple blend of Empress 1908 Indigo Gin, fresh lemon juice, and a luscious lavender syrup. Perfect for relaxing summer days or a special occasion, this lavender lemonade recipe combines the vibrant hue of Empress gin with the calming notes of lavender to create a truly dreamy bev. The gin and lemonade blend together perfectly, making for a delicious and unique cocktail. I recommend blending up fresh lemons for the freshest taste in this cocktail.

With its perfect balance of tart lemon and floral lavender, layered with the unique botanicals and hue of Empress gin, this cocktail is almost too pretty to sip. Plus, sweetened condensed milk adds a creamy texture that I love! Making the homemade lavender syrup takes about 20 minutes, so prep ahead of time. This lavender lemonade cocktail will quickly become a favorite in your cocktail rotation. Cheers!

Ingredients for the Empress Gin Lavender Lemonade

• Empress 1908 Indigo Gin: Known for its stunning indigo color and unique botanical blend, this classic gin adds both beauty and flavor to this delicious cocktail.
• Fresh Lemons: Provides the tart, citrusy base for the lemonade. Use both the peels and the juice for maximum flavor.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds a creamy texture and balances the tartness of the lemons. I like Carnation Sweetened Condensed Milk.
• Sugar: Sweetens the lavender syrup, balancing the floral notes. I used C&H Pure Cane, Granulated White Sugar.
• Dried Culinary Lavender: Infuses the syrup with a subtle floral flavor. I had Lavender Creek Co. Dried Culinary Lavender Buds on hand.
• Lavender Sprigs: A perfect finishing touch for a perfect cocktail!

How to Make the Empress Gin Lavender Lemonade

Mixing up the Dreamy Empress Lavender Lemonade is simple and most of your prep time will be making the lavender syrup, so plan accordingly!

Start by preparing the lavender syrup. In a small saucepan, combine sugar, dried culinary lavender, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and allow the lavender to infuse as the mixture cools. Strain the syrup into a jar, discarding the solids.

Next, peel the lemons using a vegetable peeler and add the peels to a blender. Juice all the lemons and add the juice to the blender. Pour in the water and sweetened condensed milk, then blend until the lemon peels are finely broken down, approximately one minute. Strain the mixture into a pitcher, add the lavender syrup, and stir well.

To serve, divide the mixture into cocktail glasses (I like this stemless wine glass from World Market) filled with ice, and layer Empress 1908 Indigo Gin into each glass with a bar spoon. Garnish with lemon slices and lavender sprig. Stir before enjoying this perfect summer cocktail!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the lavender syrup last?

Homemade lavender simple syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Can I make this cocktail without a blender?

While a blender helps to break down the lemon peels for maximum flavor, you can skip this step and simply use lemon juice if a blender is not available.

Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried culinary lavender?

Yes, fresh lavender can be used, but you may need to adjust the amount since dried lavender is more concentrated.

Can I adjust the sweetness of the lavender lemonade?

Absolutely! You can adjust the amount of lavender syrup and sweetened condensed milk to suit your taste. If you prefer a less sweet drink, start with a smaller amount of syrup and add more as needed.

What other cocktails can I make with lavender syrup?

Lavender syrup can be used in various cocktails, such as gin fizzes, martinis, or any new recipes. It’s also delicious in lemonades or teas for a floral twist.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemons?

While bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, fresh lemons provide a brighter flavor and aroma for the cocktail.

If you make this recipe, make sure to tag me on Instagram! And let me know what you think in a comment below!

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