Simple Syrup for Cocktails

This classic simple syrup is a bartender's essential, made with a traditional 1:1 ratio of sugar and water. It's easy to make and perfect for cocktails that need a smooth touch of sweetness.

Three glass bottles labeled Simple Syrup are filled with clear liquid and placed on a light countertop with a bowl of sugar and a yellow cloth nearby.

Simple syrup is one of those behind-the-scenes cocktail staples that instantly makes homemade drinks taste more polished. This classic version is made the traditional way with a simple 1:1 ratio of granulated sugar and water, creating a clean, neutral sweetness that blends seamlessly into cocktails without leaving any graininess behind.

I always keep a jar in my fridge because it's endlessly useful. It's perfect for cocktails that call for a touch of sweetness, like a whiskey sour. It's also the perfect substitute for liqueurs, adding sweetness without flavor. I often use it to make a margarita instead of using triple sec. Since the sugar is already dissolved, it mixes effortlessly into both shaken and stirred drinks, making cocktails smoother and more balanced.

What I love most is how easy it is to make. Just a few minutes on the stove and you've got a bartender essential ready whenever cocktail hour strikes. Once you start keeping homemade simple syrup on hand, it's hard to go back to store-bought.

A glass bottle labeled Simple Syrup with a wooden cap sits next to a glass, a larger bottle, and a towel on a light countertop.
Kristen Stevens

Simple Syrup for Cocktails

This simple syrup is made with granulated sugar and water for a classic cocktail sweetener that blends smoothly into drinks. Keep a jar in your fridge for margaritas, mojitos, whiskey sours, and more.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 1.5 cups
Course: Cocktail

Ingredients  

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup water

Method
 

  1. Add the sugar and water to a small pot over high heat.
    1 cup granulated sugar, 1 cup water
    A saucepan with a light-colored liquid is placed on an electric induction cooktop with an illuminated digital display showing 800.
  2. Bring to a simmer and stir until the sugar dissolves.
    A saucepan with a light-colored liquid boiling on an electric burner with digital controls.
  3. Allow the syrup to cool then use it or transfer it to a jar and store it in your fridge for up to 2 weeks.
    A glass bottle labeled Simple Syrup being filled with liquid through a metal funnel, with a jar of sugar, a bowl, and a small bottle in the background.
  4. Tried this recipe? Let us know how it went in the comments below - and if you make it, tag us at @findyourcocktail on Instagram. We love seeing your creations!

Video

Notes

Simple syrup is very easy to scale up or down as it has a 1:1 ratio. Make a small amout using tablespoons or a large amount by using several cups.
Clear glass bottles labeled Simple Syrup and a bowl of sugar are arranged on a white surface with a jar of sugar in the background.
A glass bottle labeled Simple Syrup with a wooden cap sits next to a glass, a larger bottle, and a towel on a light countertop.

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