Scented Sugars

Scented Sugar

Flower-scented sugars are easily made & can transform granulated sugar into a fragrant addition to cakes, cookies, custards, whipping cream & all sorts of sweets.  Choose sweet, aromatic flowers to flavor the sugar:  anise hyssop, lavender, lilac, rose, scented geraniums & sweet violets.

To prepare

Floral Sugar

Use a clean pint jar with a tight-fitting lid. 
Fill the jar 1/3 full with sugar, then scatter a small handful of flowers on top. Add sugar to 2/3 full; add another small handful of flowers. 
Cover with sugar to fill the jar, leaving ½” space to the lid. 
Put on the lid, shake jar, and place on a shelf in a cool, dark place. 
The sugar will be ready to use in 2-3 weeks but will become more flavorful with age. 
As you use this sugar, add more in its place.

Vanilla Sugar

Place 2 cups of granulated sugar & 1 vanilla bean (cut into small pieces) in a processor. 
Process until the bean is very finely minced. 
Strain to remove any large pieces.  Store in an airtight container. 
Use this sugar to flavor your favorite recipes. 

Ginger Sugar.  

Using this same technique you can add ¼ cup chopped crystallized ginger to 2 cups of sugar.

Adapted From Flowers in the Kitchen by Susan Belsinger