How to Make Simple Syrup and What to Use as Alternatives

If you look at basically any cocktail recipe, you’ve probably seen one common ingredient that’s in probably eight out of ten recipes. That ingredient? Simple syrup.  

But what is simple syrup? As Bartender and Global Brand Ambassador Absolut Vodka, Rico says, “It’s the salt and pepper of drinks”.  

Simple syrup helps balance out the drink. “You need that sweet and sour combination to really cause the balancing act that makes all great cocktails great”, shares Rico. It simultaneously carries and enhances flavors, adding both depth and complexity. 

An Essential Cocktail Ingredient
In short, simple syrup is an essential for every home bar. If you’re going to make cocktails at home, you’re most certainly going to need simple syrup. 

So, what cocktails use simple syrup you ask? Hmmm, well, a lot. According to Rico, approximately eight out of ten drinks. From refreshing mojitos to sophisticated old fashioneds, simple syrup is the secret weapon that is going to help elevate the taste and quality of your drinks. 

Maybe you’re wondering couldn’t you just use normal sugar? “Well, to be fair if you’re just gonna use sugar you’re gonna get a lot of a granular texture,” answers Rico. “If using simple syrup, you’re gonna get a clean texture through your drink. There’s gonna be no grains and it’s just easier to work with to get it to dissolve.”  

How to Make Simple Syrup
So, now that you know how essential it is, how do you make simple syrup? Luckily, as the nake suggests, it’s simple. Heat equal parts caster sugar and water over a low heat until the sugar is completely dissolved. For example, one part water to one part sugar (1:1). Once dissolved, let your simple syrup cool before using. 

Save Time, Make a Batch
Instead of making a single serve of simple syrup each time you’re making a cocktail, we recommend making a large batch of simple syrup. Again, use the equal parts caster sugar and water. Believe us, it’ll save you a lot of time, allowing you to follow cocktail recipes on the fly. 

OK, so now that you’ve made a large batch, understandably you want to know how to store simple syrup. Once you’ve prepared your mixture, pour it into bottles or any lidded container that’s easy to pour from. How long does simple syrup last? You can store your simple syrup in the fridge for around one month. 

Alternatives To Simple Syrup
If you’re looking for simple syrup alternatives, honey, maple syrup, and agave are three popular substitutes. Tip! If you’re using honey or agave, be sure to mix them with warm water to create a syrup-like consistency. 

Do they taste like simple syrup? They’re pretty close. As Rico says, you might pick up a hint of flavor from the agave since it’s plant-based and has a slightly honey-like taste. But overall, all three are great substitutes for traditional simple syrup. 

Want to see how to make simple syrup? Watch Rico make Simple Syrup