What You’ll Love About This Recipe
If you’re new to making syrups or just looking for a quick kitchen hack, this recipe is here to make your life easier. It’s uncomplicated, versatile, and perfect for elevating drinks or desserts effortlessly. You’ll love how it only takes two ingredients and a few minutes to whip up, making it ideal for busy days. Plus, it’s customizable—add flavors like vanilla or herbs to suit your taste. Finally, it stores beautifully in the fridge, so you can enjoy homemade syrup anytime without hassle.
Recipe
Simple syrup is a versatile sweetener used in cocktails, beverages, and desserts. Its 1:1 ratio of sugar to water guarantees it dissolves easily and blends seamlessly into recipes.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved.
- Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
- Transfer the syrup to a clean, airtight container and store in the refrigerator.
Notes:
- For a richer syrup, use a 2:1 sugar-to-water ratio.
- Add extracts, herbs, or citrus peels during heating for flavored variations.
- Keeps for up to 1 month when refrigerated.
Equipment:
- Small saucepan
- Measuring cups
- Stirring spoon
- Airtight container
Time:
- Prep time: 2 minutes
- Cooking time: 5 minutes
Cuisine:
Global
Serving:
Makes approximately 1 ½ cups of syrup.
Nutrition
Simple syrup is primarily composed of sugar and water, making it high in calories and carbohydrates. Here is the nutritional breakdown per tablespoon:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 48 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 12.6 g |
| Sugars | 12.6 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
What To Serve With It
I love using homemade simple syrup in my cocktails and mocktails because it blends smoothly and adds just the right sweetness. It’s also perfect for drizzling over desserts or mixing into baked goods, giving them a subtle, even flavor. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find so many ways to use it!
Cocktails and Mocktails
Since I began experimenting with homemade simple syrup, I’ve found it’s the secret ingredient that can elevate any drink, whether it’s a sophisticated cocktail or an invigorating mocktail. I love using it to sweeten classic cocktails like mojitos, margaritas, or old fashioneds—it blends seamlessly without grainy sugar. For mocktails, it’s a game-changer in lemonades, iced teas, or fruity spritzers. I’ve even tried adding herbs like mint or basil for an extra twist. The best part? It’s so simple to customize. Whether I’m hosting friends or treating myself, a splash of homemade syrup makes every drink feel special, and it’s always a hit.
Desserts and Baked Goods
When I’m not using homemade simple syrup in drinks, I’ve discovered it’s just as delightful in desserts and baked goods. I love drizzling it over pancakes, waffles, or French toast for a sweet, glossy finish. It’s perfect for soaking into sponge cakes, like a simple syrup-infused tres leches. I’ve even brushed it on warm scones or biscuits to add a touch of moisture and flavor. For a fun twist, I mix it into whipped cream or yogurt for a quick dessert topping. It’s my secret to keeping baked goods moist and adding a subtle sweetness without overpowering other flavors.
