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Dec. 14, 2023
The key to crafting exceptional cocktails lies in the details. One such detail that can elevate your mixology game is simple syrup. This basic yet essential ingredient can make a world of difference in your drinks, adding a touch of sweetness that balances and enhances the flavors of your favorite libations.
It’s also easier than you may think. We'll show you how to make your own simple syrup at home in no time.
Like the name suggests, simple syrup really is quite simple. It’s a combination of sugar and water, usually in equal parts, heated until the sugar dissolves. The result is a clear and sweet liquid that easily blends into your drinks, providing a consistent and controlled level of sweetness.
Heat Gently: Use medium heat to start dissolving the sugar. Stir occasionally to ensure the sugar is fully dissolved. Heat the mixture gently, avoiding rapid boiling, as that can lead to a thicker, more concentrated syrup.
There are many benefits to making your own simple syrup and using it in your cocktail creations. The ultimate benefit of using simple syrup in drink recipes (as opposed to adding granulated sugar) is that it ensures a mix that’s easy to blend. And making your own simple syrup has its advantages over buying some in the store:
If you want to make a standard simple syrup, you’ll want to use granulated white sugar. For example, the classic cocktail of a Lemon Drop uses granulated sugar in its traditional simple syrup. But that’s not your only option, as we’ll dive into.
Granulated sugar isn’t your only option. You can try experimenting with other sweeteners for different flavor profiles. For example, you can use raw or brown sugars like demerara or turbinado, which add a richer, caramel-like flavor to the syrup.
You can also use honey or agave nectar to incorporate a less refined sweetener while adding a unique flavor. The
Watermelon & Basil Southside balances its fresh lemon juice with a 1:1 honey syrup. The tropical, bubbly
Countdown uses light agave syrup.
And some more adventurous recipes even incorporate other ingredients like herbs or tea leaves, as in the
Straw-Be-Pea.
The standard ratio of simple syrup is 1:1, which means equal parts water and sugar. But you can experiment with other ratios, depending on your sweetness preferences.
Creating your own simple syrup is a small but impactful step toward becoming a master mixologist. Adding this essential ingredient to your repertoire really sweetens your skillset.