How To Make Simple Syrup (a.k.a. sugar syrup)

What is simple syrup and what is it used for?

Simple syrup (or sugar syrup) is the ubiquitous sweetener made from equal parts sugar and water used in countless cocktails and hot and cold drinks. Bakers even use it to moisten layer cakes.

It’s a versatile ingredient because simple syrup adds sweetness without adding any particularly distinct flavor, unlike honey or maple syrup. If you’ve ever stirred a packet of sugar into iced tea, you know the problem… The sugar granules don’t dissolve immediately and end up in a heap at the bottom of the glass; that’s why this sweetener is indispensable. It dissolves easily when mixed with other liquids without endless stirring or the grit and crunch of granulated sugar.

I use this neutral sweetener to make craft cocktails like this Cucumber Pioneer, gorgeous Blood Orange Martini and Cara Cara Margarita Mocktail. The pure, simple sweetness makes the other ingredients shine, and full strength is Sparkling Cara Cara Margarita. Simple syrup is the sweetener for this lip-smacking Winter White Cosmo and this brunch-inspired Guava Tangerine Fizz.

Sugar syrup is essential to make a classic gin French 75, and this one which is made with cognac.

Where to buy simple syrup?

You can find it at liquor stores and some grocery stores, but once you see how quick and easy it is to make at home (not to mention less expensive), you’ll never buy sugar syrup again. The store-bought brands go for anywhere from $3.50 to $5 per bottle (about 12 ounces each), or you can make your own sugar syrup recipe at home for about 34¢. Seriously.

What do you need to make a basic sugar syrup recipe at home?

Just two ingredients.

Sugar and water.

How to make simple syrup:

1. Combine equal parts sugar and water in a small saucepan.
2. Heat the sugar and water over medium-high heat, occasionally stirring until the sugar granules dissolve completely.
3. Cool to room temperature and store in a jar or bottle with a tight-fitting lid.

Want to make rich syrup?

For the homemade rich syrup, add two parts of sugar to the water and follow the same directions as above. Note: it will take longer for the sugar granules to dissolve. Just be patient, and stir frequently.

Does it need to be refrigerated?

It depends. Sugar (like salt) is a natural preservative; it generally doesn’t spoil. Once made, it can be stored at room temperature for about 2-3 weeks.

If you don’t think you’ll use the simple syrup in a month, you can store it in the refrigerator, and the sugar syrup will keep for up to 2-3 months.

How do you know when it’s going bad?

If the sugar syrup starts to turn cloudy or you start to see crystals forming on the surface, that can signify that it’s turning. However, it doesn’t mean you’ll get sick from using it, especially if it’s strictly a sugar and water mixture without additional ingredients or flavorings.

How do I use simple syrup in everyday recipes?

If you’re substituting simple syrup for granulated sugar in a drink recipe, you’d typically use 1/4 ounce syrup for one teaspoon of sugar. It adds instant sweetness without the constant stirring of refined sugar.

• Use it in cocktails, iced or hot tea, or cold or hot coffee drinks.
• Brush the rim of your cocktail glass with a bit of sugar syrup, then dip it into salt or another seasoning blend for a decorative and tasty rim that sticks better than simply wetting the edge with water.
• Use it to add a touch of sweetness to veggie smoothies.
• Use a pastry brush to add moisture to sponge cake layers.
• Macerate cut-up fruit, like strawberries, in a few tablespoons of simple syrup and let rest for about 30 minutes. Then spoon the sweetened berries over ice cream or pound cake.
• Add one or two spoonfuls to oatmeal instead of brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup to sweeten it without a distinct flavor.

Can I flavor sugar syrup with other ingredients?

Absolutely! That’s the best part once you’re comfortable making your own, branch out with other flavors.

You can infuse the sugar and water solution with botanicals, herbs, fruits, spices, and just about anything else you can think of… hmmm, bacon??? Here are some of our favorites:

Flavored syrups you’ll love and ways to use them:

• Honey Thyme in this Ruby Thyme Spritzer.
• Rhubarb Ginger is delicious in this Sparkling Rhubarb Lemonade or this Rhubarb Ginger Gin Rickey.
• Peach syrup makes the best Peach Bourbon Sour.
• I use this Guava Vanilla version for my homemade Guava sherbet, these frozen daiquiris, and this tasty guava limeade.
• Homemade Pumpkin Spice is delicious in this boozy Milk Punch and this Christmas Old Fashioned.

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