Simple Syrup Recipe: How to Make Simple Syrup for Cocktails

Simple syrup is an easy-to-make sweetener that is equal parts water and sugar, most well-known for its use in cocktails and other drink recipes. While white sugar needs to be well-stirred in order to dissolve in cold drinks, sugar syrup is already a liquid and will keep your drinks from becoming grainy.

Outside of cocktails, you can use simple syrup for sweetening ice cream, iced tea, sorbets, sponge cakes, and candied fruit.

Once you’ve mastered basic simple syrup, you don’t have to stop there. Simple syrup is very versatile and can be infused with numerous other flavorings. Try simmering vanilla beans, mint leaves, or cinnamon sticks in the sugar water mixture for infused simple syrups. Simple syrup should be stored in the refrigerator and has a shelf life of up to one month.