Drinks

Simple Syrup

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Simple syrup is a common ingredient in drink recipes, whether you're making a cocktail like the French 75 or an iced coffee. Don't be tempted by bottled sweeteners; if you can boil water, you can make simple syrup. It's an easy but important step. By dissolving granulated sugar in hot water before adding it to cold beverages, you ensure an even distribution of sweetness without any gritty crystals left in the bottom of the glass.

By

Food & Wine Editors

Updated on November 5, 2022

Active Time:

5 mins

Total Time:

30 mins

Yield:

Makes about 1 1/2 cups

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Ingredients

1 cup water
1 cup sugar

Directions

In a small saucepan, bring water and sugar to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until the sugar is dissolved, about 3 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool completely.

© Lucas Allen.

Make Ahead

The syrup can be refrigerated in a glass jar for up to 1 month. If you need to store it longer, it can also be frozen.

Notes

Simple syrup is also fantastic when flavored or spiced. Try cinnamon syrup, lemon-thyme syrup, or rosemary syrup. If you need to make larger quantities, stick with the easy 1:1 ratio of water to sugar.

Serve With

Try it in a Blackberry Collins cocktail, sangria, and other party-ready pitcher drinks. It's also ideal for iced tea, coffee, and homemade sodas. For a quick dessert, add plain or flavored simple syrup to a citrus salad or a bowl of berries before topping with fluffy whipped cream. Some bakers like to use simple syrup on layer cakes to help keep them moist. Just make sure to brush or sprinkle it on the cake in moderation to avoid making the layers too sweet or soggy.

Originally appeared: June 2006