For most simple syrups, you need some basic equipment, such as a small saucepan and fine mesh strainer, to set yourself up for success. However, if you're making a flavored or infused syrup, you might need more than the basics. This article covers tools and tips for making simple syrup, including links to several flavor varieties.
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Tools for making simple syrups
Small mixing bowl
A small bowl can be used to mix sugar and water to form the basic simple syrup, which can be used for cool-method simple syrups. It can be used to strain out aromatics, such as herbs or spices, from flavored simple syrups.
Small saucepan
Flavored syrups often need aromatic additions, such as dried hibiscus leaves or fresh ginger, which need to be simmered and steeped in the syrup to maximize the flavor. If possible, a heavy-bottomed saucepan is ideal because it helps prevent the syrup from burning on accident. Not that I've ever done that before....
Related: A versatile option is the All-Clad D3 pot. I have the Costco knockoff of the All-Clad copper core, and I LOVE it.
Related: Rosemary Simple Syrup (pictured below)
Fine mesh strainer
Most flavored simple syrups must be strained to remove the aromatic addition. A fine mesh strainer is sure to catch most, if not all, of the aromatics, creating a smooth, impurity-free syrup.
Serious Eats did a fabulous test of 8 popular mesh strainers. The top pick was the Rösle Stainless Steel. The budget-friendly one was the OXO Good Grips.
I have the MIU brand ones (pictured), but I am upgrading as soon as I can.
Tips for Making Simple Syrup
Heat vs. No Heat
Some syrups, such as Hibiscus and lavender simple syrup, need heat. However, others, like Lilac Simple Syrup, work best without heating.
Don't let it boil
Typically, keep the mixture from boiling, or the syrup will be too thick, increasing the chances of crystallizing. Always refer to the recipe, though!
Be consistent
Use consistent measuring techniques - pick something and sick with it.
Chill out
If a syrup has been heated, let it cool before you store it.
Follow the recipe
While this may seem obvious, it's easy to scan the recipe to check for quantities only. Reading the information in the recipe card can help you have consistent results and success.
Label the bottle
Labeling the bottle with the date you made the syrup, along with it's best by date is important to maintain freshness. It's especially important when you make floral syrups which can go bad (yes, they can develop mold) much faster than other syrups.
A label reminds you what flavor is in each bottle. It helps prevent mixhaps, as it's easy to mix up two similar looking syrups. For example, the Rosemary Simple Syrup is similar in color to the Sage Simple Syrup.
Related: Simple Syrups for Drinks: The Basics
Storage of Simple Syrups
Keep it cool
Simple syrups should generally be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Syrups can also be frozen for up to six months to extend their shelf life.
Bottle it up
While any airtight container will suffice, I recommend storing simple syrups in an easy-to-use bottle or jar. This typically means finding a vessel that pours well, such as a squeeze bottle, instead of a plastic Tupperware with a rounded edge.
Functional Option: Plastic squeeze bottle. You can freeze the syrup directly in the bottle. Just leave room for expansion. Once the syrup thaws, it can be used without being transferred to another container.
Decorative Option: If you want to look glamorous and functional, consider investing in glass bottles that pour nicely. Some glass bottles have a pour spout; others have a bottle stopper pouring spout.
If you search "Syrup Dispenser Bottles Set," you should find some excellent options.
When to prioritize aesthetics rather than functionality
If presentation matters, for example, if you have a Make Your Own Italian Soda Bar at a party, presenting the flavored syrups in gorgeous bottles that are also easy to use would be ideal.
Shelf life of Simple Syrups
It depends.
Syrups using fresh flavorings like Rose Simple Syrup have a much shorter shelf life than classic Simple Syrup.
It's important to note that the higher the sugar content, the longer the syrup will last. A 1:1 ratio syrup will last for about a month in the refrigerator, while a 2:1 or 3:1 ratio syrup can last up to six months. Related: Basic Simple Syrup Recipe
Important Note: Refer to the specific recipe for the recommended shelf life.
Cheers!
Susan
Drinks using simple syrups
Most drinks on the site use simple syrups. Explore the Drink category for other fun ideas.
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