How to Make Simple Syrup

This easy homemade simple syrup recipe is made with only two ingredients and 5 minutes. This post includes ideas for how to use simple syrup in cocktails, mocktails, coffee and baked goods. There's also information on how to make flavored simple syrups!

Ingredients for simple syrup

The great thing about simple syrup is that it's not only easy to make, but it's an easy recipe to remember: equal parts granulated sugar and water.

If you're not familiar, when a recipe calls for “equal parts” of thing, it's talking about ratios of one ingredient to another. You might also see it listed as “1 part sugar to 1 part water”.

So in this case, it's equal parts sugar and water – meaning if you use 1 cup white sugar, you'd need 1 cup water.

How to make simple syrup

Can I use a different kind of sugar?

You can! Just note that different kinds of sweeteners can yield different flavored results.

• Cane sugar – Cane sugar simple syrup may be slightly more golden in color
• Light brown sugar – Brown sugar simple syrup will be a much darker brown color with a deeper flavor due to the molasses content of the brown sugar.
• Honey – Honey simple syrup is going to be a beautiful golden color like… well, honey!

How to store simple syrup

I like to store my simple syrup in these little glass corked bottles, but my recommendation is really anything that's easy for you to use that has a sealed top to it.

You could repurpose these containers after you give them a real good cleaning (reduce, reuse, recycle!):

• glass salad dressing bottles
• maple syrup jars
• any glass condiment bottles, like rice vinegar or hot sauce
• even wine bottles (if you use simple syrup a lot)

I know a lot of people like to use plastic squeeze bottles, but I like to stay away from anything plastic to avoid chemicals leaching into the syrup.

Can you freeze simple syrup?

You can! I recommend pouring the cooled simple syrup into ice cube trays or a similar silicone mold for pre-portioned servings. Let them freeze overnight in the tray or mold, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or storage container for up to 3 months.

How long does simple syrup last in the fridge?

In my experience, it lasts about 3-4 weeks in the fridge. You'll know when simple syrup is past its prime when it's cloudy and/or has a foul smell.

How to use simple syrup

You can enjoy your homemade simple syrup in a variety of different ways!

Cocktails

The most common way is to make cocktails with simple syrup (and mocktails). Here are some of my favorites:

• My personal favorite is a French 75
• While many people enjoy cranberry mimosas as is, some people like to add a little simple syrup to cut the tartness
• Cranberry champagne margaritas are another delicious purpose
• Strawberry basil margarita
• If you want to add a little somethin' to your hot toddy, a lemon and ginger-infused simple syrup would be divine

Coffee and cold brew

If you're not the black coffee type, add a little simple syrup to your next glass of cold brew or iced coffee.

Baked goods

Did you know you can use simple syrup in baked goods?

If you overbaked a cake and it came out a little dry, you can brush a little over the top of each layer of a cake to add a little extra moisture.

Or if you taste the cake and realize it's a little bland, the simple syrup can add a little sweetness.

The same principles go for cupcakes, pound cake, sponge cakes and fruitcakes that need a little love.

How to make flavored simple syrup

The possibilities for flavored simple syrups are endless, but you could get a lot of mileage out of fruit or herb-flavored syrups.

For example: I created blackberry syrup in my blackberry lime mint juleps, and raspberry syrup in my raspberry rose sangria.

But overall, the general recipe is for flavored simple syrups is:

1. In a small saucepan, combine your water and sugar, as well as your fruit or herb of choice over medium heat to bring it just to a boil.
2. Reduce heat and simmer until the sugar has dissolved and it has thickened to a thin syrup.
3. If needed, strain through a fine mesh sieve, let cool, and store in an airtight container in the fridge.

Blackberry simple syrup

I created blackberry syrup in my blackberry lime mint juleps with 1 cup blackberries, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup water, and a squeeze of lime. You'll notice the ratio of sugar to water isn't even – that's because I wanted this syrup to be more concentrated.

Raspberry simple syrup

I use a raspberry syrup in my raspberry rose sangria by combining 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries, 2 ounces water, and 2 Tablespoons granulated sugar. This created a nice, flavorful, light syrup.

Starbucks vanilla syrup recipe

Vanilla simple syrup is something I make often, and thankfully all you need is the addition of 1 1/2 tablespoons vanilla extract. If you want to make yours as close to Starbucks' vanilla syrup as possible though, use a vanilla bean for the best results.

FAQs

Leaving a comment and star rating is a great (and free) way to support Stress Baking! ❤️ After you've made this recipe, please consider clicking on the stars below and leaving a comment to share your experience!

Leaving a comment and star rating is a great (and free) way to support Stress Baking. After you've enjoyed this recipe, click on the stars below and leave a comment to share your experience – thank you!

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