True to its name, simple syrup is so simple to make. And yet, homemade simple syrup can seem intimidating if you haven’t done it before! Today, I’m sharing a basic recipe describing how to make simple syrup to sweeten your cocktails, coffee or tea, or any other beverage, really. In its most basic form, simple syrup requires just two ingredients, sugar and water. Plus, it’s ready in just a few minutes, and you’ll be one step closer to enjoying your drink when it’s done. Cheers to that.
The beauty of making your own simple syrup is that you can make it more than just sweet, if you wish. You’ve seen me take advantage of this opportunity in a number of drinks made with simple syrup over the years. Below, you’ll find some fun variations to flavor your simple syrup with fresh herbs and other seasonings. Off we go!
How to Make Simple Syrup
Combine equal parts sweetener and water. Warm in a saucepan or in a microwave-safe bowl until the sweetener disappears into the water. That’s it!
How to Choose Your Sweetener
You can change the flavor of your simple syrup by thoughtfully selecting your sweetener. Keep in mind that if your sweetener is dark, your simple syrup will be on the darker side as well. Also, choosing a liquid sweetener (like honey) will yield more simple syrup, since sugar is reduced in volume when it melts. Plain sugar yields a perfectly neutral simple syrup that will sweeten your drink without imparting additional flavors. Sometimes that’s just what you want! Brown sugar would be almost maple-like, and I imagine it would go well with coffee or bourbon. Coconut sugar would be similar, though more intensely flavored. Honey is my favorite sweetener for simple syrup. Honey’s fragrant, floral qualities go especially well with gin, tequila and vodka-based drinks. Straight from the bottle, honey doesn’t mix well with cold drinks, but turning it into simple syrup solves the problem. Tempted to use maple syrup? Great idea, but you can just drizzle it straight—no need to dilute it with water. Since it’s more concentrated, you may only need half as much maple syrup as simple syrup. I love to use maple syrup in whiskey drinks, like the Old Fashioned.
Recipes Made with Simple Syrup
Paloma CocktailWhiskey SourTom Collins CocktailRefreshing Hibiscus MocktailBee’s Knees CocktailMai Tai CocktailsClassic French 75 CocktailFresh Mezcalitas
Easy Simple Syrup Flavor Variations
We can impart extra flavor to our simple syrup by steeping herbs, spices, and more in the mixture. Just add them before warming the mixture, and leave them in until your simple syrup has cooled to room temperature. If you’re interested, I’d pick one, or maybe two, flavorings that will complement your drink.
Fresh Herbs
Fresh mint, rosemary, thyme or lavender make lovely simple syrups. Have you ever had mint simple syrup in a creamy iced coffee? No? You’ve been missing out!
Warming Spices
Whole cinnamon sticks, cloves or nutmeg will infuse your simple syrup with warming spices. These would be great options during the holidays.
Citrus or Ginger
Citrus zest (orange, lemon or lime) or slices of fresh ginger will liven up your simple syrup. If your drink is already citrus-forward, including a citrusy simple syrup will take it to the next level.
Alternate mixing options: You can also make simple syrup in the microwave (use a microwave-safe bowl large enough to contain the mixture if it starts bubbling). If using honey, you can just pour very hot water into the honey and stir until blended. Or if you want to use some muscle, shake sugar and water together in a mason jar until the sugar fully dissolves.
