As the snow melts and the days grow longer, there’s nothing quite like welcoming spring with a fresh batch of new recipes. One of our favorite ingredients to incorporate into our cooking and baking during this time of year is spruce tips – those delicate, citrusy leaves that adorn the branches of evergreen trees in the early growing season.
Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to brighten up your morning or a savory dish to impress your friends at a springtime gathering, we’ve got 18 refreshing spruce tip recipes to get you started. From classic cookies and cakes to innovative sauces and cocktails, these ideas are sure to bring the flavors of the season right to your table.
Spruce Tip Shortbread Cookies
These buttery shortbread cookies are infused with the sweet, earthy flavor of spruce tips, making them a unique and delicious addition to any cookie plate or gift tin.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh spruce tips (see note)
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add chopped spruce tips and mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
5. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Spruce Tip and Honey Glazed Salmon
Celebrate the freshness of spring with this unique glaze featuring spruce tips, honey, and a hint of citrus. This sweet and savory combination elevates the flavor of succulent salmon to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup spruce tip syrup (or substitute with maple syrup)
– 2 tbsp pure honey
– 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together spruce tip syrup, honey, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over the salmon, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spruce Tip Infused Olive Oil
Harness the unique flavor of spruce tips to elevate your culinary creations with this easy-to-make infused olive oil. Perfect for adding a subtle piney note to salads, sauces, and marinades.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh spruce tips (white or yellow)
– Cheesecloth or a clean cotton cloth
Instructions:
1. Rinse the spruce tips with cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
2. Place the spruce tips in a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid.
3. Pour the olive oil over the spruce tips, making sure they are completely covered.
4. Cover the jar with cheesecloth or a clean cotton cloth to prevent contamination and light exposure.
5. Store the mixture in a cool, dark place for 2-4 weeks, shaking the jar every few days to allow flavors to meld.
6. After the infusion period, strain the oil through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean container. Discard the solids.
Cooking Time: None, as this is an infused oil recipe.
Spruce Tip Lemonade
This unique lemonade recipe incorporates the subtle flavor of spruce tips, adding a delightful complexity to the traditional drink. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a refreshing pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh lemon juice
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup dried spruce tips (or 1 tablespoon spruce tip extract)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine lemon juice and sugar. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add the water to the pitcher and stir well.
3. If using dried spruce tips, add them to the pitcher and let steep for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. Strain out the solids before serving. Alternatively, add the spruce tip extract according to package instructions.
4. Chill the lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
5. Serve over ice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None
Spruce Tip Pesto Pasta
Discover the unique flavor of spruce tips in this refreshing pasta dish, perfect for spring and summer meals. This recipe combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the earthy notes of spruce tips, all tied together with a creamy pesto sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/4 cup fresh spruce tips
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine spruce tips, Parmesan cheese, cherry tomatoes, olive oil, and garlic. Blend until smooth.
3. Add the pesto sauce to cooked pasta and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spruce Tip Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day with a sweet and savory twist on traditional pancakes using spruce tips, harvested during the spring season. These fluffy treats are infused with the subtle flavor of evergreen and paired perfectly with pure Canadian maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons spruce tip syrup (or 1 tablespoon dried spruce tips, rehydrated in hot water)
– Maple syrup, for serving
– Butter or oil, for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and spruce tip syrup (or rehydrated spruce tips).
3. Combine wet and dry ingredients; stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter or oil.
5. Drop 1/4 cup batter onto the pan; cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles form on surface.
6. Flip pancakes; cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with pure Canadian maple syrup.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes per batch (depending on pan size).
Spruce Tip Ice Cream
Experience the unique flavor of spruce tips in this creamy and refreshing ice cream recipe. Perfect for adventurous eaters and outdoor enthusiasts, this treat is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped spruce tips (fresh or dried)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in chopped spruce tips and vanilla extract. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Discard the solids.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Churn the mixture in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once churned, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-15 minutes (steeping time) + chilling time
Spruce Tip Gin Cocktail
This unique cocktail combines the crisp flavors of spruce tips with the smoothness of gin, perfect for warm weather or any time you need a refreshing pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 oz spruce tip syrup (see below for recipe)
– Splash of soda water
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Spruce Tip Syrup:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup fresh or dried spruce tips
– Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves. Let cool and strain.
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, lime juice, simple syrup, and spruce tip syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with soda water.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None (just shake and serve!)
Spruce Tip Pickles
Combine the sweetness of fresh spruce tips with the tanginess of pickling, and you’ll have a unique preserve perfect for springtime celebrations. This recipe showcases the distinct flavor of spruce tips, adding a subtle herbal note to your pickles.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh spruce tips (collected from white or black spruce trees)
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup white vinegar
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp mustard seeds
Instructions:
1. Rinse the spruce tips in cold water, then pack them into a clean glass jar.
2. In a saucepan, combine water, vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, and mustard seeds. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
3. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the spruce tips, leaving 1/4 inch headspace.
4. Seal the jar and let it cool to room temperature.
5. Store in the refrigerator for at least 2 weeks before serving.
Cooking Time: None (refrigerator pickling)
Spruce Tip Wild Rice Salad
This refreshing salad combines the earthy flavors of wild rice with the tangy sweetness of spruce tips, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or side dish. The bright green color adds a pop of freshness to any plate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1/2 cup fresh spruce tips (or 1 tablespoon dried)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice and chopped nuts.
2. Add spruce tips (fresh or dried) and toss gently to combine.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and apple cider vinegar, tossing again to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (cooking wild rice not included)
Spruce Tip and Mushroom Risotto
This springtime risotto combines the bright flavor of spruce tips with earthy mushrooms, creating a unique and delicious dish perfect for a seasonal dinner party. With its creamy texture and vibrant green hue, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 2 tablespoons spruce tips, chopped (fresh or dried)
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
4. After 20 minutes of cooking, add mushrooms, spruce tips, and white wine (if using). Continue cooking until rice is creamy and tender, about 5-7 minutes more.
5. Remove from heat, stir in butter, and season with salt and pepper. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spruce Tip Vinegar
Harness the earthy flavor of spruce tips with this simple vinegar recipe, perfect for adding depth to salad dressings or marinades.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup white vinegar (5% acidity)
– 1/4 cup fresh spruce tips (juniperus spp.)
– Cheesecloth or a clean cotton cloth
Instructions:
1. Combine water and vinegar in a saucepan, bringing to a boil.
2. Reduce heat and add spruce tips. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced slightly and the flavor is intense.
3. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a clean cotton cloth into a clean glass jar. Discard solids.
4. Store vinegar in the refrigerator to slow down fermentation.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tips:
– Use fresh spruce tips for the best flavor. Avoid using dried or old tips, as they may impart bitterness.
– Adjust the amount of spruce tips to your taste, as the flavor can be quite strong.
– This vinegar will thicken and become more concentrated over time. Shake well before use.
Spruce Tip Beer Bread
Escape to the great outdoors with this unique beer bread infused with the essence of spruce tips. This savory loaf is perfect for a cozy night in or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup beer, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup spruce tip syrup or 2 tablespoons fresh spruce tips, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add beer, spruce tip syrup or chopped tips, and melted butter. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Place the dough in the prepared loaf pan, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spruce Tip Tea with Mint
As the seasons change, the aroma of spruce tips fills the air, signaling the start of a new cycle of renewal and rejuvenation. This soothing tea blends the piney essence of spruce tips with the invigorating zing of peppermint, creating a perfect blend for a calming morning pick-me-up or a relaxing evening wind-down.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon dried spruce tips
– 1 tablespoon fresh peppermint leaves
– 2 cups boiling water
– Honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine spruce tips and peppermint leaves in a teapot or infuser.
2. Pour in boiling water, letting it steep for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the solids.
4. Add honey to taste, if desired.
5. Enjoy the refreshing and invigorating brew!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Spruce Tip Roasted Chicken
Add a burst of spring flavor to your roasted chicken with the bright, citrusy taste of spruce tips. This recipe is perfect for adventurous eaters and nature lovers alike.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh spruce tips (white or black)
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 lemon, quartered
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, spruce tips, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Stuff the cavity with lemon quarters and place the chicken in a roasting pan.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spruce Tip Butter for Biscuits
Elevate your biscuits with the unique flavor of spruce tips, harvested from evergreen trees. This fragrant butter adds a subtle, piney aroma and a touch of sweetness to your homemade biscuits.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons spruce tips (fresh or dried)
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, cream the softened butter until light and fluffy.
2. Add the spruce tips and sugar to the butter; mix until well combined.
3. Beat the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spruce tips are fully incorporated and the butter is smooth.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time:
– None, as this recipe involves mixing and not baking.
Spruce Tip Granola
This granola recipe combines the earthy flavor of spruce tips with traditional ingredients to create a unique and delicious snack. Perfect for hiking enthusiasts or anyone looking to add a touch of nature to their morning routine.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped almonds
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons spruce tips, dried and crushed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, almonds, brown sugar, maple syrup, olive oil, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
3. Add crushed spruce tips and stir until evenly distributed.
4. Spread mixture onto prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until lightly toasted.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spruce Tip Chocolate Truffles
Elevate your holiday baking with these unique truffles infused with the sweet and earthy flavor of spruce tips. These bite-sized treats make a perfect gift or addition to any winter gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons spruce tip syrup (or 1/4 teaspoon dried spruce tips)
– Pinch of salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for coating
Instructions:
1. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the chocolate chips.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold in the melted butter and spruce tip syrup (or dried spruce tips).
3. Gently fold the whipped cream mixture into the melted chocolate until well combined.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Coat with confectioners’ sugar.
6. Refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None
Yield: Approximately 20 truffles
Summary
As spring arrives, why not celebrate with some refreshing recipes that showcase the flavors and aromas of spruce tips? From sweet treats like Spruce Tip Shortbread Cookies and Spruce Tip Pancakes with Maple Syrup to savory dishes like Spruce Tip and Honey Glazed Salmon and Spruce Tip and Mushroom Risotto, there’s something for everyone. Even drinks and desserts like Spruce Tip Lemonade, Spruce Tip Ice Cream, and Spruce Tip Chocolate Truffles are included. These 18 recipes will help you make the most of spring’s bounty and add a touch of freshness to your meals and snacks.
Leave a Reply