How to Make Simple Syrup
A dash of simple syrup livens up just about anything, from coffee to cocktails to desserts. But have you ever stopped to wonder how it’s made?
It’s an alarmingly simple process, actually, as learning how to make simple syrup requires little more than a few basic kitchen tools and a minimum of two ingredients, one of which is just water. There’s no catch, either; it really is just that simple.
If you’d like to learn how to make this simple flavored syrup for cakes, cocktails or coffee, etc. then read on.
Step #1. Prepare Ingredients
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup water
Optional to infuse the syrup:
- Cinnamon stick and orange peel
- 2 tbsp. rum
- 1 tsp. vanilla
Note: For a thicker simple syrup, you can use a 2:1 ratio of sugar to water. For this recipe: 1 cup sugar and 1/2 cup water.
Step #2. Add Water to Saucepan
Pour water into a pot.
Step #3. Add Sugar
Add the sugar to the pot.
Step #4. Heat the Mixture
Heat over medium high heat, until all of the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat.
Step #5. Cool & Add Flavoring to Syrup
Variation 1: Let the syrup cool and add the vanilla extract.
Variation 2: Let the simple syrup cool and add the rum.
Variation 3: Add the orange peel and cinnamon. Let the syrup sit for 3 hours and then remove the peel and cinnamon stick.
And with that, you have yourself a bottle of the finest simple syrup you could ever get your hands on. With just how easy that was to do, you’ll be wondering why you never tried making it yourself before for some time to come.
While the obvious applications are certainly great, there are a ton of creative ways you can use simple syrup, infused or plain, that you might not have even considered. Pastries can really benefit from a coating of it, like when you use simple syrup to moisten cake post-baking. You might even try to mix things up and make it with brown sugar for a more molasses-like flavor.
What’s your favorite way to use simple syrup? Even if you didn’t have one before, you sure will now that you can make it on demand. Easy to make and easy to store, you’ll never have to worry about a bitter drink or dry pastry again.
We have some great ways for you to use your freshly made simple syrup! Check them out:
How to Make Simple Syrup
Ingredients
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup water
Optional to Infuse the Syrup:
- Cinnamon stick and orange peel – or
- 2 tbsp. rum – or
- 1 tsp. vanilla
Instructions
- Pour water into a pot.
- Add the sugar to the pot.
- Heat over medium high heat, until all of the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat.
- Cool & add the flavoring to the syrup if desired:
- Variation 1: Let the syrup cool and add the vanilla extract.
- Variation 2: Let the simple syrup cool and add the rum.
- Variation 3: Add the orange peel and cinnamon. Let the syrup sit for 3 hours and then remove the peel and cinnamon stick.
Equipment
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information on In the Kitch is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. It may not include toppings and/or sauces.
I am Joss, the creator and editor of In the Kitch. I am inviting you on this food journey with me to learn, grow and bring out that inner chef in you. I hope to inspire you to get creative in your own kitchen!
