What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This simple syrup recipe is a game-changer for your drinks and desserts, and you’ll love how easy it is to make. Perfect for mixing into cocktails, sweetening iced tea, or drizzling over pancakes, it’s a must-have in your kitchen.
- It takes just two ingredients you probably already have—sugar and water—so you can whip it up anytime.
- You can customize it by adding flavors like vanilla, mint, or citrus to match your favorite recipes.
- It keeps well in the fridge for weeks, making it a handy go-to for quick sweetening whenever you need it.
Recipe
Simple syrup is a versatile sweetener used in cocktails, desserts, and beverages. It dissolves easily and blends seamlessly into both hot and cold drinks.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar completely dissolves.
- Once dissolved, remove from heat and let cool.
- Transfer to a clean bottle or jar and store in the refrigerator.
Notes:
- For a thicker syrup, use a 2:1 ratio of sugar to water.
- Add flavorings like vanilla, citrus zest, or herbs while heating for infused syrups.
Equipment:
- Small saucepan
- Stirring spoon
- Measuring cup
- Glass bottle or jar for storage
Time:
- Prep time: 2 minutes
- Cooking time: 5 minutes
Cuisine: Universal
Serving: Makes about 1 ½ cups
Nutrition
Simple syrup is primarily sugar and water, providing calories with minimal nutrients.
| Nutrient | Amount per 1 tbsp (20g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 64 |
| Carbohydrates | 16g |
| Sugars | 16g |
What To Serve With It
I love using homemade simple syrup to sweeten cocktails, and it’s perfect for classics like mojitos or margaritas. It also works wonders for desserts, drizzling over pancakes or mixing into homemade lemonade for an extra touch of sweetness. Let me share some of my favorite ways to pair it with drinks and treats.
Cocktail Pairings
When you’ve made a batch of homemade simple syrup, it’s time to think about what cocktails will shine with it. I love pairing it with classic recipes like a lemon drop martini or a whiskey sour, where the syrup balances tartness perfectly. It’s also fantastic in a mojito, adding just the right sweetness to complement the mint and lime. For something fruity, try it in a strawberry daiquiri or a peach bellini. I’ve found it elevates even the simplest drinks, like iced tea with a splash of bourbon. Experimenting with flavors is fun—don’t be afraid to get creative!
Dessert Enhancements
Homemade simple syrup isn’t just for cocktails—it’s a game-changer in desserts too! I love drizzling it over pancakes, waffles, or French toast for extra sweetness without the graininess of sugar. It’s perfect for brushing on cake layers to keep them moist, or adding a glossy finish to fruit tarts. Try mixing it into whipped cream or yogurt for a smooth, sweet boost. My favorite trick? Soaking sponge cake in flavored syrup for a next-level trifle. Even ice cream gets a upgrade with a quick pour of syrup—trust me, it’s magic. Desserts just got way more exciting!
