What is simple syrup?
Simple syrup is a combination of sugar and water, dissolved together to create a liquid sweetener. It’s commonly used in cocktails, iced coffees, lemonades, and other cold beverages where granulated sugar would struggle to dissolve. The standard ratio is 1:1 (equal parts sugar and water), but variations exist depending on the desired sweetness level.
Basic simple syrup variations:
- Brown sugar syrup – You can change things up just by changing the sugar. Demerara syrup – made with natural brown sugar – can add a delicious, caramel flavor to your simple syrup and works really well in certain drinks.
- Rich simple syrup – This variation doubles the sugar for a thicker, sweeter version of simple syrup. The added sugar will cut through ingredients a bring more sweetness to a drink while not diluting it.
- Grenadine syrup – This gets its own category because it’s so integral in cocktail making. This pomegranate flavored syrup is made with pomegranate juice instead of water. Store bought versions can be made with artificial flavors and colors, so learn how to make homemade grenadine here.
- Infused syrups – After making simple syrup, you can add things like lavender, cinnamon sticks and more to your syrup to add flavor as the syrup cools. Try my vanilla simple syrup!
- Fruity syrups – These are made with added fruit, but instead of infusing off the heat, the fruit is infused while the syrup simmers, adding color and flavor to the syrup. Example: blueberry simple syrup.
Storage and shelf life
Basic simple syrup lasts up to one month in the fridge. Adding vodka can extend its shelf life, but always use your best judgment before consuming. If you notice cloudiness or mold, discard immediately.
Flavored syrups last 1-2 weeks, depending on ingredients.
simple syrup tips & tricks
- Quick cooling method – Pour the hot syrup into a shallow dish and refrigerate for faster cooling.
- No-heat method – Combine sugar and water in a jar and shake until dissolved (takes longer but works well for delicate flavors).
- Alternative sugars – Try coconut sugar, demerara, or brown sugar for different flavor profiles.
- Make ahead – Batch-prep syrups and freeze in ice cube trays for easy portioning.
Frequently asked questions
More simple syrup recipes to try: gingerbread syrup / passionfruit syrup / jalapeño simple syrup / homemade orgeat syrup
Simple syrup is one of the most essential ingredients in cocktails, yet it’s often overlooked. This liquid sweetener blends seamlessly into drinks. Whether you're a home bartender or just looking for an easy way to sweeten beverages, simple syrup is a must-have ingredient that's incredibly easy to make.
Ingredients
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon vodka (optional, to extend shelf life)
Instructions
- Make the syrup: In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat over medium, stirring occasionally until the sugar fully dissolves.Remove from heat and let cool completely. When cool, stir in vodka.
- Storage and use: Transfer to a clean glass jar or bottle and store in the refrigerator for up to one month (if using vodka, 1 week if not).
Notes
To make a rich simple syrup: use a 2:1 ratio (2 cups sugar to 1 cup water) for a thicker, more viscous syrup.
Nutrition
Serving: 1ounce Calories: 64kcal Carbohydrates: 17g Fat: 0.1g Sodium: 1mg Potassium: 0.3mg Sugar: 17g Calcium: 1mg Iron: 0.01mg
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