Learn how to make simple syrup for cake, cocktails, and more. It's so easy!
Simple syrup is one of those recipes that is truly named for exactly what it is. It's simply a boiled mixture of water and sugar.
Yet this two-ingredient recipe can be used for so many different foods and beverages! And you can infuse the syrup with different herbs, berries, or aromatics to make flavored simple syrups. Those make fantastic gifts for the foodies in your life.
Read on to learn more ways you can use simple syrup, and for the easy instructions on how to make it.
Table of contents
What are some ways you use simple syrup?
Simple syrup is mostly used in these three ways:
- simple syrup for cake
- to use in cocktails
- as a liquid sweetener for non-alcoholic iced beverages.
Simple syrup for cake
If you're baking a cake, you can use this simple syrup for cake to help make it moist and fluffy. There are a few different methods different bakers use.
One way is to poke holes with toothpicks or slim straws into the tops of the cake. Then pour the simple syrup into the holes. This helps moisten the cake from within.
Some bakers simply pour the syrup over the baked cakes. This can work, too, but you have to be more careful in your pours. It's easy to overpour and soak a cake this way.
Simple syrup for cocktails
This easy syrup is used in so many different types of cocktails. Because it is in liquid form, it's easier to blend into drinks compared to using plain old sugar. You get the sweetness of the sugar, without the grainy texture.
Simple syrup for iced beverages
Many people use this simple syrup recipe to sweeten iced drinks, such as iced tea and iced coffee. Like in its use for cocktails, using a simple syrup (sometimes also called sugar syrup) helps you create a sweetened drink without the grainy texture of sugar.
Kitchen tools and equipment
For this recipe, you just need a few basic kitchen tools:
Large pot - You can use a heavy bottom pot to make the simple syrup.
Whisk - Use a large whisk to mix together the ingredients.
Two ingredients to make simple syrup
You only need TWO ingredients to make simple syrup: water and sugar. Yup, that's it! Two ingredients you probably always have at your fingertips!
No matter how much you decide you need to make for your cake, cocktails, or iced drinks, it's always a 1:1 ratio of water and sugar.
Water - You can use tap water or filtered water, whatever you prefer.
Sugar - use classic granulated white sugar.
How to make simple syrup for cake, cocktails, and more
Heat a pan over medium-high heat.
Add the water to the pot.
Add the sugar to the pot.
Whisk together the sugar and water until the sugar dissolves.
Boil the water for one minute. Remove from heat.
Pour into a jar.
That's it! So easy, right?
Recipe FAQs
Allow the syrup to cool, then store in an airtight mason jar or other airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay good for about two to three weeks.
Absolutely! You can flavor simple syrup with herbs, like rosemary, mint, or basil. And consider flavoring it with aromatics like vanilla bean, lavender. Or use berries like blackberries, raspberries, or cranberries.
Cake and cocktail recipes that can use simple syrup
- Raspberry Bellini cocktail
- Citrus Bourbon Buzz cocktail
- Champagne Float Cocktails
- Rosemary Citrus Old Fashioned
- Mini Citrus Bundt Cakes
- Vegan Chocolate Cake
- Champagne Jello Shots
Simple Syrup
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Heat a heavy bottom pot over medium-high heat. Add the water and the sugar. Whisk together. Once the sugar dissolves, bring the mixture to a boil and let it boil for one minute. Turn off the heat and pour into a glass jar.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is a general estimate. Actual nutrition details may vary depending on the exact foods & brands you use to make this recipe. It does not take into account any substitutions, toppings, or optional ingredients.
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