How to Make a Simple Sugar Syrup
Simple syrup -- a solution of water and sugar -- is aptly named because it is incredibly easy to make. Yet the uses for simple syrup are endless. You can use it to add sweetness to cocktails, keep a cake moist, poach or preserve fruit, glaze baked goods and much more. How you plan to use the syrup determines the ratio of sugar to water. Whatever the intended use, simple syrup is great to have on hand and keeps for a long time. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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A baker's secret to moist and flavorful cakes is a brush of simple syrup on each layer. Decide how you plan to use the simple syrup, and measure the sugar and water accordingly. Follow a ratio of 3 parts water to 1 part sugar to make a thin syrup ideal for glazing cookies and keeping cake layers moist. A ratio of 2 parts water to 1 part sugar yields a medium syrup for sweetened beverages and poaching fruit. Equal parts sugar and water creates a heavy syrup perfect for cocktails and candied fruit and nuts.
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Combine sugar and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring often. Lower heat and simmer for five minutes or until sugar is completely dissolved.
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Use simple syrup to make candied citrus peels for a colorful garnish. Cool the syrup before use. If you don't plan to use it right away, cover and store the syrup in the refrigerator up to three months.
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Tips & Warnings
To sweeten and flavor iced tea, add chopped mint, lemon or lime zest or chopped fresh ginger to the water-sugar solution. Boil, simmer and cool as directed. Strain the syrup through a sieve prior to use.
If making a syrup for cocktails, 2 cups each sugar and water yields 2 1/2 cups syrup -- more than enough to make a round of drinks for your friends.
References
Resources
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