Pine Needle Syrup

Give your holiday drinks a festive twist with this homemade pine needle syrup. It tastes herbaceous and is paired with vanilla bean for an incredible spin on anything you're sipping on this season!

My husband is a huge fan of the scent of pine, so I often search for pine related gifts during the holidays. Last year I got him some pine needle tea, which is really just dried pine needles, and have been loving experimenting with it ever since!

The pine:

I'm surprised pine needle isn't more popular in food. There are over 100 species of pine in the world. And it's absolutely delicious. It pays homage to rosemary with hints of citrus. The needles are most flavorful when harvested in spring. And not only are they edible, they're also medicinal and rich in vitamin C. Everyone has heard of eating pine nuts, but the bark, cones and resin are also edible! And pine pollen has become quite popular in holistic medicine. If you love pine as much as we do, you may enjoy these Free Botanical Wall Art containing pine art.

The pine needles I used are from Eastern White Pine tree, foraged from upstate NY. Pine needles grow in long clusters known as fascicles, which resemble small bunches. They are usually found in groups of two to five needles. You can buy them here. If you want to go foraging for your own pine, here's a guide to do so safely. There are many benefits of drinking pine needle tea daily, and the flavor is delicious. Grab a bag, bake up these pine needle shortbread cookies and make this syrup while you're at it!

What is simple syrup?

Simple syrup is generally found in two strengths: Equal parts sugar and water, the most common strength in U.S. bars, is referred to as “one-to-one” (1:1). Two parts sugar to one part water is, as you might guess, referred to as 2:1, which is the standard syrup in U.K. bars; in the States, you’ll often hear 2:1 syrup being referred to as “rich simple syrup.” It's used to add sweetness and flavor to drinks, like cocktails or coffees.

How to use this syrup:

• Make a pine needle gin and tonic, or any holiday cocktail
• Use it in a latte or iced coffee
• Brush it onto cakes before baking for extra flavor and moisture and botanical flair

Ingredients:

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup dried pine needles, finely chopped
• 1 vanilla bean pod, seeds extracted

How to make this syrup:

1. In a small saucepan over medium/high heat, heat the water, sugar, pine needles and vanilla beans until it comes to a simmer
2. Stir to dissolve the sugar and continue simmering gently for 5 minutes, reduce heat and let simmer on low for an additional 5 minutes
3. Remove from heat and let the liquid cool
4. Lastly, strain into a jar (with an airtight lid)
5. Let cool completely before using in drink of choice