Step 1 In a small saucepan, heat one-half cup of water with the sugar over medium-high heat until the sugar is completely dissolved. Remove from the heat. Stir the lavender and allow the mixture to steep for at least 1 hour and up to 8 hours. Strain it into a clean jar and refrigerate. This makes about three-fourths cup syrup; it will keep, refrigerated, for several weeks.