How To Make Simple Syrup

Many cocktail recipes call for simple syrup. To most, it is not something you have readily at hand in your home. Or do you? Truth is, simple syrup is nothing more than granulated sugar and tap water. And its name suits it well, because it really couldn't be simpler to make. Most of us, when planning our drink recipes, have overpaid for the simple syrup at our local food or beverage market. Now you can make your own for pennies! Assuming you have the ingredients, it will take less than five minutes to make. Just follow the easy steps below, and you will have simple syrup at hand in your refrigerator for all your future needs!

Ingredients

• 1 cup cold tap water
• 2 cups granulated sugar

Directions

1. Pour water into a small saucepan.
2. Add granulated sugar.
3. Bring to a boil. Stir occasionally.
4. Reduce heat. Continue stirring occasionally until the sugar is fully dissolved. When done, it will have a smooth consistency without clumps or visible sugar crystals.
5. Remove from heat. Allow to cool to room temperature.
6. Bottle the syrup. Any clean and seal-able container can be used. I recommend using an empty plastic squeezable condiment container. This will give you easy access for use in beverage recipes, and eliminate the hassle of washing unnecessary utensils.
7. Chill. Store your simple syrup in the refrigerator.

Now that you have the knowledge needed to make your own simple syrup at home, you will save time and money on your next cocktail party. And that's not all! Simple syrup can also be a baker's best friend. It is a popular ingredient in many cakes, and pastries, as it provides added sweetness and moisture.

To use simple syrup on pasties I recommend making it a bit thinner. This can be done by using 1 cup granulated sugar per cup of water, as opposed to the two cups of sugar you would use for the cocktail syrup. This thinner consistency will allow you to spread the syrup evenly over your pastry with a brush, ladle, or other utensil.