Simple Syrup Recipe
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Simple syrup is a sugar-based sweetener. All you need is sugar and water. Learn how to make it at home, get some unique flavor variations, and learn how to use it in cocktail making, baking, and more!
I’m sure some of you just rolled your eyes and thought, “Really? Is he posting a recipe for simple syrup?” I get it. Yes, if you can boil water, you can make simple syrup. However, I also thought there might be folks out there who haven’t heard of simple syrup or ever made it. After sharing a handful of recipes on the blog that use simple syrup, I thought it made sense to also post a recipe for it.
To keep things interesting for all of you who are well versed in making simple syrup, I’m also including variations on the recipe: cranberry simple syrup, apple cinnamon, rhubarb, and more!
What is it?
Simple syrup is a liquid (syrupy) sweetener made of one part water and one part sugar.
It is typically used to sweeten drinks and cocktails or to add moisture and sweetness to baked goods. (I’ve included a broader list of uses below.) Flavors can also be added to simple syrup, which then allows it to act as a flavor enhancer when added to a recipe.
How to Use
- cocktail / cocktails
- lemonade / iced tea
- cakes and desserts
- ice cream topping
- glaze for meats and fish
- topping for pancakes and waffles
Ingredients
- sugar
- water
- flavoring (optional)
As I mentioned above, traditional simple syrup is made with one part water to one part sugar. The typical measurement is 1 cup to 1 cup, however, you can adjust this amount based on your needs and preferences.
When I make simple syrup, I alter the ration of water to sugar. Most of the time, I use 3/4 cup of water to 1 cup of sugar. This gives me a thicker syrup which I like for most recipes.
How to Make
- Add sugar and water to a small saucepan.
- Cook and stir over medium heat until the sugar is dissolved. For a thicker syrup cook a bit longer.
- Let the syrup cool. Then store in a jar with a sealed lid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you buy it?
Yes. However, because it’s so simple to make, I recommend whipping up a batch at home. If you are pressed for time or just want to keep a bottle in your pantry, I recommend this variety. I also like this one. The nozzle makes for easy cocktail mixing.
How long will it last?
Simple syrup will keep in the refrigerator for up to a month.
Recipe Variations
As I mentioned above, you can make lots of simple syrup variations. For example:
- Citrus Simple Syrup – add lemon, lime, orange, etc.
- Mint Simple Syrup – add fresh mint
- Vanilla – use vanilla sugar
- Fruit Simple Syrup – add fruit or berries
- Spicy Simple Syrup – add jalapeños
Variations I’ve Made
- Cranberry Simple Syrup for Cranberry Old Fashioned
Ingredients: water, sugar, fresh cranberries - Spiced Pear Simple Syrup for Spiced Pear Moscow Mule
Ingredients: pear juice, sugar, fresh pear, spices - Apple Pie Simple Syrup for Apple Pie Sangria
Ingredients: water, sugar, spices - Strawberry Rhubarb Syrup for Strawberry Rhubarb Cake and Strawberry Margaritas
Ingredients: water, sugar, fresh rhubarb, fresh strawberries - Lime Simple Syrup for Strawberry Limeade Cake
Ingredients: water, sugar, lime zest, fresh lime juice - Rosemary Sage Simple Syrup for Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail
Ingredients: water, sugar, fresh rosemary, fresh sages - Lavender Simple Syrup for Lavender Lemonade
Ingredients: water, sugar, dried lavender
Use the recipe below to create a basic simple syrup or a creative concoction of your own. Let me know in the comments below what simple syrup recipes you’ve made or would like to try!
I hope you found this post helpful and inspiring! If you did, please leave a comment and a 5-star rating below.
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Simple Syrup
Ingredients
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Add the sugar and water to a small saucepan.
- Cook and stir over medium heat until the sugar is dissolved. (For a thicker syrup cook a bit longer.)
- Let the syrup cool. Then store in a jar with a sealed lid.
- Simple syrup will keep in the refrigerator for up to a month.
Where can I find this container? I searched the thread a few times, I’m sure I’m missing it!
It’s actually vintage. So maybe try eBay or Etsy? I don’t have a direct link.
xo Michael
Terrific! Can you tell me where you got the cruet for your simple syrup? I love it!
Thanks! It’s actually vintage. I found it at a local antique store.
xo Michael
I’m actually glad you shared this. I knew about simply syrup, but never thought about all of the creative variations. This was helpful and inspiring. Thank you.
I’m so glad you found it helpful!!
xo Michael