This recipe for Simple Syrup is a versatile way to add sweetness to drinks, cocktails, cakes and desserts.
What is simple syrup?
Simple syrup is true to its name sake -- it's a syrup made from equal parts sugar and water.
The ratio for simple syrup is 1:1 -- 1 part sugar to 1 part water.
For a more concentrated rich syrup, you can increase the sugar ratio to 2:1, meaning 2 parts sugar to 1 part water, and this will give you a slightly thicker, sweeter syrup.
What is it used for?
Simple syrup is most commonly used as a sweetener for drinks and cocktails.
As syrup is already liquid, it makes it easier to mix into beverages.
It is also used in desserts and baking, such as in Double Baked Almond Croissants, and as a cake soak in Matcha Hojicha Vanilla Angel Cake Slices.
Ingredients you'll need
You'll need only 2 ingredients:
- granulated cane sugar: you can use cane sugar or regular white sugar
- water
How to make simple syrup
In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water.
Bring to a boil over medium heat.
Gently swirl the mixture until all the sugar dissolves and the syrup thickens slightly.
Remove from heat and transfer the syrup to a clean, sterile glass jar.
Let it cool completely before using.
How to store
Store homemade syrup in the refrigerator in a clean, sterile glass jar with a lid for up to 2 weeks.
As the syrup has not gone through a heat-canning process, it should not be stored at room temperature.
If the syrup turns cloudy, discard it.
Beverages that use simple syrup
- iced coffee
- iced tea
- vodka
- margaritas
- mojitos
- gin fizz
- whiskey sours
- daiquiris
Other flavor variations
You can easily customize the syrup.
Infuse and change the flavor of the syrup by adding different flavours and spices.
Try adding:
- cinnamon sticks
- vanilla bean
- caramel
- brown sugar
- ginger
- thyme/rosemary/basil
- lavender
- rose
- pandan
- hojicha/pumpkin spice
Expert tips
Once you know the ratio of sugar to water, you can easily scale it up to make a large batch.
If adding spices or other flavours, strain the syrup before storing.
Using a sterile, clean glass jar and placing the syrup in the fridge can prolong its shelf life.
You can also add a little vodka to the syrup to extend shelf life.
Depending on the type of sugar you use, the color may vary.
Other syrup recipes you may like
Be sure to check out these recipes:
Let me know if you try out this recipe -- tag me on Instagram @siftandsimmer or leave me a comment/rating below!
Simple Syrup
For accuracy and precision in baking recipes, use weight (metric) measurements when available.
Ingredients
- 100 g granulated sugar
- 100 ml water
Instructions
For key visual process steps, refer to the body of the blog post.
- In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Gently swirl the mixture until all the sugar dissolves and the syrup thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and transfer the syrup to a clean, sterile glass jar.
- Let it cool completely before using.
- Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Nutrition
The nutritional information provided should be considered as approximate and is not guaranteed. Please use your best judgment to ensure food is safely prepared and/or a good fit for your diet.
Leave a Reply