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Learn How to Make Simple Syrup at home. The process couldn’t be easier!
Anyone who makes sweet beverages and cocktails should know how to make it. I’ll teach you how to make a standard simple syrup base as well as how to infuse it with different flavors that will elevate your drinks to the next level!
This is the recipe you’ll need if you’re wanting to make the best margarita with simple syrup. But it’s also fantastic in so many other drinks including coffee and tea!
Why this recipe works
Knowing How to Make Simple Syrup is something everyone should know if you make any kind of drink recipes at home.
- It is beyond easy to make. Simple syrup is basically sugar dissolved in water. The solution is heated in a pot to fully dissolve the crystals and then cooled before using and/or storing.
- Whether you drink alcohol or not, simple syrup can be added to any drink to sweeten it up. Things like lemonade, coffee, iced tea, you name it! Use it with any kind of drink that needs to be sweetened.
- It can be infused with a variety of things like herbs, citrus peel, flowers, etc. to create a pleasant aromatic taste and flavor!
How to Make Simple Syrup
- Boil water in small sauce pan and then remove from heat. Add sugar, swirling occasionally, just until sugar dissolves. Cool completely before using.
- Store in airtight container in refrigerator. Will keep for about one month.
- If you prefer your simple syrup to be even sweeter, just increase the amount of sugar you use. Just be aware that the greater the concentration of sugar, the longer it will take to dissolve. And, going back to my chemistry days, if you end up putting in too much sugar, it will never come to a solution. I haven’t figured out what the breaking point ratio is just yet because I don’t like it that sweet.
Recipe Tips
- Simple syrup keeps quite well in your refrigerator and lasts even longer if you make it with a stronger concentration of sugar. I’ve always used the 1:1 ratio of sugar:water but you can make it more concentrated.
- Can you buy it at the store? Yes, but making it at home is the most cost efficient method. That way, too, you’ll have total control over the quantity and quality of the sugar you use.
How to infuse simple syrup
For each cup of sugar and water, my rule of thumb is to add about a tablespoon of dried herbs. Allow the herbs to soak in the warm syrup for at least an hour. For the most intense flavor, don’t strain out the herbs until you’re ready to use the simple syrup.
My favorite herb infusions are lavender as well as mint.
You can also use lemon, lime or orange peel in the same way.
Recipes that Use Simple Syrup
I’ve added some examples of drinks that I’ve made with simple syrup.
- Fresh Squeezed Lemonade – There is nothing better than enjoying an ice cold glass of easy-to-make classic homemade Fresh Squeezed Lemonade on a gorgeous warm day.
- Blended Watermelon Margarita is made from frozen watermelon, lime, sugar and tequila. This refreshing cocktail pairs well with Mexican food.
- Pomegranate Cosmopolitan – This vibrant and delicious cocktail is made with vodka and Grand Marnier is easy to make and will be the talk of any holiday party.
- Pomegranate Whiskey Sour – If you want a lip smacking cocktail that’s perfect for the winter holidays, mix up an easy to make Pomegranate Whiskey Sour.
- Strawberry Lemonade Whiskey Sour– This blended Whiskey Sour is perfectly tart and sweet with a bourbon whiskey kick is the perfect summertime cocktail.
- Refreshing Raspberry Mule combines lime sweetened raspberry puree with vodka and ginger beer to create a tasty, refreshing, and easy to make cocktail.
- Watermelon Limeade is a refreshing and tasty summer drink made from fresh watermelon and limes, perfect for all ages on a hot summer day.
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Equipment
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Add 1/2 cup water to small sauce pan. Heat over high heat and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and 1/2 cup granulated sugar, swirling occasionally, just until sugar dissolves. Cool completely before using.
- Store in airtight container in refrigerator. Will keep for about one month.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
This post was originally created in January 2016 and has been updated with more fun facts and tidbits for your reading pleasure.
Such a great tutorial – very information! I love all the ways you can use this simple syrup!
Love that I can make it myself now!! So good.
Thank you for the excellent tutorial and information. Simple syrup is a necessity for any well stocked bar.
Think my first recipe with this simple syrup has to be Watermelon Margarita 😛
I always not having simple syrup around — for cocktails AND cakes! Great instructions for keeping it truly simple, and I love that you can infuse it with different flavors.
I use simple syrup to bring back moisture to over baked cakes. 😉
Say what? Brillant hack! I’ve never heard that one before!
Thank you for the recipe. I could not remember. So thank you very much.
I always use simple syrup when I am making gelato, sorbet, or ice cream.
I didn’t know it would be so easy to make. Thank you so much.
Lemon drop drink. 2 ounces simple
Syrup, juice of one lemon, 1 ounce
Lemonchello liquor, 1 ounce voldka
Shake over ice, serve in martini glass
That sounds like a lemoncello martini I had last weekend. It was delicious! Thanks for sharing