Classic simple syrup is a two-ingredient syrup is commonly used to sweeten cocktails, coffees, and other beverages, and can also be used as a glaze for cakes.

Once you’ve tried this recipe, you’ll see just how easy it is to create your own at home.

Why I make classic simple syrup

Pre-baby days, I was a whiskey sour and amaretto sour kind of gal. It was pandemic times, so most bars and restaurants were shut down. I decided to teach myself how to make these cocktails at home. Simple syrup being one of the ingredients, I quickly realized I could use it in my homemade lattes, teas, and lemonades. Gone are the days of vigorously stirring my drinks and still finding sugar crystals at the bottom of my drinks. Unless crunching on the sugar bits at the end is your thing, no judgement.

This recipe has since evolved from those early days into all kinds of different syrup flavors that I’ll continue to share with you on House of Yarrow. This classic simple syrup recipe is a good foundation to expand upon, letting your palate explore countless new flavors.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. This post contains affiliate links.

Equipment

• Saucepan (medium)
• Spoon (for stirring)

You’ll only need very minimal equipment to create this classic simple syrup.

Ingredients

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup sugar (refined)

Only two ingredients here. Water and sugar. It doesn’t get easier than that.

Instructions

Step 1

Combine 1 cup water and 1 cup sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil.

Step 2

Stir until the sugar is dissolved into the water. Allow to cool.

Step 3

Pour directly into a clean jar with lid for later use or straight into glasses for immediate use.

Notes

This recipe creates about 8 oz of classic simple syrup.

Some of the water will evaporate during the boiling process, creating a syrup. The longer the sugar dissolved water is boiled, the thicker the syrup will become. Typically, boiling long enough to dissolve the sugar is just enough to get the desired classic simple syrup consistency. Adjust for your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestion

Serve as a sweetener in most beverages: tea, coffee, lemonade, cocktails. Classic simple syrup can also be used in various desserts and to keep cakes and pastries moist after baking.

How to Store

Funnel the cooled syrup into an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 1 month.

Common Questions

I use raw sugar in my home, can I substitute this instead?

Yes. You can absolutely use raw sugar instead of refined sugar. The boiling/cook time will need to be extended a bit for the sugar crystals to be broken down. Please note: there might be a grittier texture and the color won’t be as clear as opposed to using refined sugar.

It’s too thick, I may have boiled it for too long. What should I do to fix it?

It’s an easy fix. The sugar should already be dissolved at this point, so you are safe to add a little bit more water without having to bring it back up to a boil again. Slowly add water and keep mixing until you like the consistency of the syrup.

Can I add other ingredients to create flavored syrups?

Yes. I have other flavored syrup recipes for more inspiration, or you can try making your very own!