Any well stocked bar is most likely to have some simple syrup on hand, as it’s an essential ingredient used to enhance and sweeten a freshly made drink.

Simple syrups are primarily used to sweeten beverages (especially cocktails), and are appropriately named because it really is simple to make: the basic recipe is a one to one ratio of white sugar dissolved into water. But if you want to change the complexity of the flavor*, go with your favorite type of sugar. From white, turbinado to raw Demerara sugar, each choice will impart its own special taste and color to the drinks it gets used in.

Simple Syrup

Yield: 1 cup

Active Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

1 cup sugar (such as white, turbinado or raw Demerara sugar)
1 cup water

1) In a small pot, bring the sugar and water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and stir until the sugar has completely dissolved.
2) Remove from heat and allow to cool.
3) Pour into a decorative jar and keep refrigerated until ready to enjoy.

*Chef’s Note: If you happened to make some Candied Citrus Peels from this prior post, save the liquid from the final step and jump right to packaging it up, as the byproduct is a delicious citrus-infused simple syrup! In the event that you’d like to make a citrus-infused simple syrup without making the candied citrus recipe, just add a strip of your favorite citrus peel to step 1 and allow it to simmer (covered) for an additional 15 minutes. Once cooled, remove and discard the peel before storing.

Gifting Idea:
Play up the prohibition era theme to this gift idea by storing the liquid in small antique bottles. Use a cork for the lid and attach a gift tag or label.

If you happen to know of a cocktail affectionado who loves to indulge in the occasional libation, make them a simple syrup - it’s a great way to gain yourself a personal bartender!