How To Make Simple Syrup Recipe

I have always loved crafting Homemade Syrup and exploring subtle flavor twists. With water, sugar, and hints of mint, thyme, citrus peel, or vanilla bean, I create a syrup that refreshes simple drink recipes in unique ways. I invite you to try this creation as it promises countless possibilities.

I’ve been experimenting in the kitchen and came up with this simple syrup recipe that’s perfect for elevating your drinks. It all starts with just 1 cup water and 1 cup granulated sugar, which combine into a basic syrup that’s as versatile as it gets.

Sometimes, I like to toss in a few mint leaves or a sprig of fresh thyme to add a refreshing twist. Other times I try a strip of citrus peel or even a split vanilla bean if I’m aiming for a different flavor dimension.

Whether you’re planning to whip up some cocktail recipes for a Margarita night or get creative with other alcohol drink recipes, this syrup is a game changer for yummy summer drinks. I love using this homemade syrup to add a touch of sweetness to my beverages and frankly it’s a pretty neat hack straight out of a classic kitchen.

Enjoy making and mixing it up!

Why I Like this Recipe

Here are a few reasons why I like this recipe:

1. I love how simple it is to make. I just mix equal parts water and sugar, and then all I have to do is heat it up and stir until everything dissolves – it’s super easy even when i’m in a hurry.
2. I enjoy playing around with different flavors. Whether it’s tossing in some mint leaves, a bit of thyme, or even a strip of citrus peel or vanilla bean, I get to tweak it every time so it never gets boring.
3. I really appreciate how versatile it is. I can use this syrup to sweeten any of my drinks, from iced tea to cocktails, and it always adds that little extra touch that makes my drinks taste amazing.
4. I feel proud every time i make it because it feels like an upgrade on regular store-bought syrups – it’s homemade and customizable, which makes it feel special.

Here’s a quick rundown on making it: I start with one cup of water and one cup of granulated sugar in a small saucepan. I turn up the heat to medium and stir until all the sugar is gone and the mixture begins to simmer. If i’m in the mood to experiment, I add a few mint leaves, a sprig of thyme, or even a strip of citrus peel (or a split vanilla bean if i’m feelin fancy). I let it all simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors really get to mingle. Once i’m happy with the infusion, I take the pan off the heat and let the syrup cool down to room temperature. After that, i strain out the herbs or any added flavor pieces, pour the syrup into a jar or bottle, and store it in the fridge. This little homemade syrup can last for up to a week and makes any drink instantly better.

Ingredients

• Water acts as the base that dissolves sugar real fast during heating.
• Water easily mixes all its components creating a harmonious blend that enhances sweetness.
• Granulated sugar provides carbs that are essential for the syrup’s sweet taste.
• Sugar helps create a smooth texture and balances out the overall flavors in drinks.
• Mint leaves adds a refreshing lift and a slight herbal note.
• Citrus peel offers tangy brightness and hints of natural zest in the syrup.
• Vanilla bean imparts a rich aroma that deepens its overall flavor profile.
• Herbs and extra flavorings lend unique twists and versatility to your homemade syrup.
• Each ingredient contributes its own character to this simple reliable syrup.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• (Optional) A few mint leaves or a sprig of fresh thyme for flavor infusion
• (Optional) A strip of citrus peel or a split vanilla bean if you want a different twist

How to Make this

1. Pour one cup of water and one cup of granulated sugar into a small saucepan.

2. Turn the heat to medium and stir the mixture to combine the ingredients.

3. Keep stirring until the sugar has completely dissolved and a light simmer starts.

4. Now, if you wanna add some extra flavor, toss in a few mint leaves or a sprig of fresh thyme, or even a strip of citrus peel or a split vanilla bean.

5. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors can really mix in.

6. Once you’re happy with the infusion, take the saucepan off the heat.

7. Allow the syrup to cool down to room temperature.

8. After it cools, strain out any herbs or flavor pieces using a fine mesh strainer.

9. Pour the simple syrup into a clean jar or bottle.

10. Store it in the fridge and it will be ready to sweeten your drinks for up to a week.

Equipment Needed

1. Measuring cup for both water and sugar
2. Small saucepan to combine and heat the mixture
3. Stirring spoon to mix your ingredients
4. Fine mesh strainer for removing the herbs or flavor pieces
5. Clean jar or bottle for storing the finished syrup

FAQ

How To Make Simple Syrup Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Instead of regular water, you can use coconut water or even brewed tea for an extra hint of flavor.
• You could swap granulated sugar for brown sugar or even cane sugar to add a bit more depth to the taste.
• If you’re not into mint leaves, basil or cilantro works really well as a substitute.
• Fresh thyme can be replaced by rosemary if you want a stronger, more aromatic twist.
• For the citrus peel or vanilla bean alternative, try using a cinnamon stick or a couple of cardamom pods for a unique flavor kick.

Pro Tips

1. Try not overcooking the syrup cuz if you let it simmer too long it can turn into something thicker than you might want and the flavors might get too intense.
2. When pickin citrus peel its best to use just the outer colored part; the white bit can make it bitter so watch out for that.
3. If you’re addin herbs like mint or thyme, make sure you give ’em a good stir every now and then so they release all that flavor evenly throughout the mixture.
4. Always let the syrup cool completely before straining and storing in the fridge, otherwise you might end up with a cloudy mess or risk burning yourself.