How to Make Simple Syrup (Easy Recipe for Drinks)

I wrote this short guide on how to make simple syrup for the several alcoholic drinks (or lemonade … or ice tea) that I have on the site. You can use this syrup in your homemade cocktails and other drink recipes. It’s super … simple (ha!) to make! Skip that expensive and preservative-filled store-bought stuff to make your own simple syrup with just two ingredients! You can also infuse your syrup with other things, include pansies, herbs, mints … or my favorite, lavender.

What I Love About This How to Make Simple Syrup Recipe

This simple syrup is … well, simple! And it isn’t just for alcoholic recipes, either. (But you can try making some if you want, like my Muddled Strawberry Whiskey Smash Recipe With Mint.

• You can make lemonade, ice tea, or coffee mixtures with it.
• You can even use it as a base for homemade sorbets and ice creams, allowing you to control the sweetness and flavor of your frozen treats.
• It’s also a secret weapon in the baker’s arsenal, used to moisten cakes and add a silky texture to frostings and glazes.
• For those who enjoy experimenting with flavors, the syrup can be infused with herbs, spices, or fruit zest to create unique and personalized concoctions.
• Furthermore, its simplicity and ease of preparation mean that it can be made in large batches and kept on hand, ready to enhance any recipe at a moment’s notice.
• You can double, triple, or even quadruple this recipe. If there is a sale of sugar at your local grocery store, pick up an extra bag so you can have this stuff on hand.
• The ratio is 1.25:1. To figure out the amount of water, multiple the amount of sugar, in cups, by 0.8. That will equal the amount of water, in cups, you will need.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan
• Stirring spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups
• Clean jar with a tight-fitting lid

FAQs

1. How long does simple syrup last? Simple syrup can be stored in a clean, dry glass or plastic container in the refrigerator for up to 1 month. Ensure the container is sealed tightly​​​​.
2. What kind of sugar can I use? While white granulated sugar is most common for a clear syrup, you can also use demerara, turbinado, or brown sugar for a richer flavor. Each type of sugar can add a unique color and taste​​.
3. Can I make flavored simple syrups? Yes, you can create flavored syrups by adding fruits, herbs, spices, or citrus zest during the cooking process. For fruit syrups, a good rule of thumb is 2 parts fruit to 1 part sugar and water. Herbs and spices can be added to taste and strained out after cooling​​​​.
4. What are some uses for simple syrup? Simple syrup is versatile and can be used in iced teas, lemonades, cocktails, and as a glaze for desserts. It’s perfect for sweetening any beverage or dish without the granules of sugar​​.
5. Can simple syrup go bad? Simple syrup should be discarded if it becomes cloudy or shows signs of fermentation, such as off smells or bubbles. It typically lasts up to 1 month when stored properly in the refrigerator​​.
6. How can I make a thicker simple syrup? For a richer, thicker syrup, use a 2:1 ratio of sugar to water, known as rich simple syrup. This variation is sweeter and more viscous, ideal for certain cocktails and desserts​​.
7. Are there any quick substitutes for simple syrup? If you’re in a hurry, you can substitute simple syrup with agave, maple syrup, or honey mixed with water. Another quick method is to shake sugar with water vigorously until dissolved​​.
8. Can I use simple syrup in non-alcoholic beverages? Absolutely! Simple syrup is great in non-alcoholic drinks like coffee, tea, lemonade, and mocktails, adding sweetness without altering the drink’s clarity or flavor​​.
9. How can I ensure my simple syrup is clear? Using white granulated sugar and ensuring it fully dissolves during the cooking process will keep your syrup clear. Strain through a fine mesh if adding ingredients like fruit or herbs​​.
10. Can I use simple syrup for dietary restrictions? Yes, simple syrup is gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs. However, always consider the specific dietary requirements and allergies when adding flavors or using different types of sugar​​.

If you really don’t feel like going to the grocery store or making this syrup, you can buy a nice simple syrup on Amazon.

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Yield: 1 1/4 cups of simple syrup

Simple Syrup

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A quick and easy simple syrup recipe perfect for sweetening drinks and desserts.

Prep Time 5 minutes

Cook Time 5 minutes

Total Time 5 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups white sugar
• 1 cup water

Instructions

1. Combine the white sugar and water in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Stir the mixture continuously until it reaches a boil and the sugar has completely dissolved. Don't let it burn or turn into caramel!
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the syrup to cool to room temperature.
4. Once cooled, pour the syrup into a clean jar and secure it with a tight-fitting lid.
5. Store the jar in the refrigerator for up to one month.

Notes

This simple syrup recipe can be used to sweeten beverages, cocktails, and desserts. Adjust the amount of syrup based on your sweetness preference.

Nutrition Information

Yield

1

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 968Total Fat 0gSaturated Fat 0gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 0gCholesterol 0mgSodium 12mgCarbohydrates 250gFiber 0gSugar 250gProtein 0g

Nutrition automatically generated.

The Final: How to Make Simple Syrup Recipe