Hey, Reader!
When I first started crafting drinks at home, simple syrup was one of those things I used to buy for my cocktails and I would use it in my morning coffee as well.
I knew I liked it because I loved the coffee shops that provided this easy sweetener for my weekend coffees and teas, rather than having to stir sugar granules in for what felt like a small eternity. It's also a great way to infuse flavor.
When you make it at home, it's so much cheaper than the store-bought stuff. Plus, it's simple — it says so right in the name! I promise that even if you don't consider yourself a cook, you can't mess this up.
classic simple syrup
Before you try any other types or flavors of simple syrup, you need to get the main proportions down. One part sugar to one part water is the best ratio to start with. (That means if you use 1 cup sugar, you'll need 1 cup water.) This 1:1 ratio yields a sweet liquid that is the perfect consistency for cocktails and coffee.
honey simple syrup
Ever tried to stir honey into an iced drink only to discover it seizes up and is nearly impossible to mix in? You need honey syrup. Also known as "runny honey," this simple syrup is made with equal parts honey and warm water to make a thinner consistency that's easier to stir.
vanilla simple syrup
If you love vanilla lattes, you aren't going to want to miss this delicious elixir. My vanilla syrup recipe tastes better than your favorite coffee shop's because it's made without corn syrup and fake flavorings. You probably already have everything you need in your kitchen.
lavender simple syrup
This floral syrup is refined, luxurious and perfect for spring! With such a delicate flavor, simple syrup brings it into a infused syrup that packs a punch. Mix up a lavender latte and sip straight into the season.
brown sugar syrup
Adding brown sugar in simple syrup form makes it so much easier to sweeten drinks, rather than stirring it in. It’s especially wonderful for cold drinks, like iced lattes, adding a complex palette of molasses, caramel and toffee to every sip.
I hope you're inspired to try a new type of simple syrup in your drinks sometime soon! Check out this list of syrups for more flavors to try.
Cheers!
Susannah