This simple syrup recipe takes about 15 minutes to make and quickly becomes a go-to for cocktails, mocktails, lemonades, and any cold drink that needs a smooth, even sweetness.
If you’ve ever stirred granulated sugar into an iced drink and discovered undissolved crystals at the bottom, you know the problem simple syrup solves. Made from equal parts sugar and water, simple syrup dissolves easily into cold liquids so you get consistent sweetness without graininess.
Once you keep a jar of simple syrup in the fridge, it’s surprising how often you’ll use it. It’s the base for many flavored syrups too—add fruit, herbs, citrus, or extracts while it’s warm to make variations like cranberry, raspberry, or basil syrup.
How to Make Simple Syrup
Measure equal parts sugar and water into a small saucepan. One cup of water and one cup of granulated sugar is a convenient batch that yields roughly 1½ cups of syrup.
Warm the mixture over medium-high heat and stir constantly. The liquid may look cloudy at first; continue stirring until it becomes completely clear, which indicates the sugar has dissolved. Avoid bringing the mixture to a rolling boil or cooking it too long—if the sugar caramelizes it will darken and develop a cooked flavor.
When the syrup is clear and the sugar is dissolved, remove the pan from the heat and let it cool. Transfer the cooled syrup to a clean jar or bottle with a tight-fitting lid and refrigerate.
How to Store Simple Syrup
Keep simple syrup in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it stays good for about 3 to 4 weeks. Discard it if it becomes cloudy, develops an off smell, or shows any signs of fermentation.
Make a Small Batch When Needed
This recipe scales easily. If you only need a little, use one-half cup water and one-half cup sugar. As long as you maintain the 1:1 ratio, you can make any quantity that suits your needs—perfect for a single round of cocktails or a quick lemonade.
How to Flavor Simple Syrup
Once you’ve mastered the basic syrup, you can flavor it in many ways. Add the flavoring while the syrup is warm so it infuses effectively. Here are popular options:
- Fruit: Strawberries, blueberries, cherries, and other fruits work well. Simmer the fruit with the syrup so the flavor and color release into the liquid. Strain before bottling for a clear syrup, or leave the fruit in for a more rustic syrup.
- Vanilla: Stir in vanilla extract or a vanilla bean for a warm, mellow sweetness that complements bourbon or coffee drinks.
- Mint or Peppermint: Fresh mint leaves or a small amount of peppermint extract creates a refreshing syrup—start with a conservative amount, especially for extract.
- Citrus: A splash of lemon, lime, or orange juice brightens the syrup and is ideal for citrus cocktails and lemonades.
- Juices: Pomegranate, cranberry, or other pure juices add depth and color and are great for mocktails.
No-Stove Option
If you don’t want to heat anything, whisk equal parts warm (not hot) tap water and powdered sugar until fully dissolved. It won’t be identical to the cooked simple syrup, but it’s a quick substitute when you need a fast, no-heat solution.
Recipe: Simple Syrup for Cocktails
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Combine the water and sugar in a medium saucepan and warm over medium-high heat.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved and the liquid is clear. Do not boil vigorously.
- Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
- Transfer to a clean jar or bottle with a tight lid and refrigerate until ready to use.
Notes
- This batch makes about 1½ cups of syrup when prepared as written.
- Simple syrup is useful beyond cocktails—use it to sweeten iced tea, coffee, lemonade, or iced beverages without graininess.
- Store in the fridge for up to 3–4 weeks; discard if it turns cloudy or smells off.
Nutrition (per 2 tablespoons)
- Calories: 64 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 17 g (sugar: 17 g)
- Fat: 0.1 g
- Sodium: 1 mg
Ways to Use Simple Syrup
Simple syrup is extremely versatile: use it to sweeten cold coffee, boost cocktails like margaritas or old fashioneds, make flavored lemonades, or mix into mocktails for balanced sweetness. It’s also handy for sweetening iced teas and fruit-based drinks where granulated sugar won’t dissolve evenly.
