Maybe you’re out of simple syrup, or you don’t feel like buying it. Well, guess what? You’re in luck! Let me help you find the best substitute for simple syrup to make tasty desserts, cocktails, mocktails, and coffee drinks.
What is Simple Syrup?
Simple syrup is a liquid sweetener made by mixing equal parts sugar and water. Flavor the syrup with mix-ins like citrus, cardamom, vanilla, or lavender, depending on what you’re using it for.
People often use simple syrup to sweeten cocktails, coffee, and herbal tea. It’s also a fantastic addition to iced tea, lemonade, and other cold beverages.
You can use simple syrup to sweeten desserts by brushing it onto cake layers and cupcakes, infusing them with flavor and keeping them moist. Stir the liquid sweetener into sorbet, frosting, glazes, and drizzles.
What’s the Best Substitute for Simple Syrup?
If you find yourself without the sugary addition to drinks and dessert and you’re wondering what to substitute for simple syrup, there are plenty of alternatives to choose from.
1. Homemade Simple Syrup
If you are making something that calls for simple syrup as an ingredient, rest assured. Making simple syrup from scratch is a breeze and only takes 15 minutes. All you need is water and sugar – it really is that SIMPLE!
2. Honey
You can use honey as a substitute for simple syrup. Use the same amount of honey as simple syrup in a recipe, or make honey lavender simple syrup for a delicious flavor variation.
3. Maple Syrup
Maple syrup is a delicious, natural sweetener that you can use as a substitute for simple syrup. It has a rich, distinctive flavor to complement many recipes, especially those with a warm or spiced flavor. Use an equal amount of maple syrup as you would simple syrup.
Photo Credit: Mikey Frost
4. Agave Nectar
Agave nectar is a sweetener derived from the agave plant. It has a mild flavor and easily dissolves, making it a good substitute for simple syrup. Replace simple syrup with equal parts agave nectar.
More Substitutes for Simple Syrup:
- Liquid Stevia or Monk Fruit: These sugar-free alternatives are calorie-free, plant-based sweeteners you can use as a substitute for simple syrup in some recipes. They are significantly sweeter than sugar, so you’ll only need a small amount.
- Fruit Juice or Fruit Puree: Depending on the recipe you’re making, replace simple syrup with fruit juice or fruit puree. However, they may alter the overall flavor of the drink or dessert.
What is Simple Syrup Made of?
- Water: Use water to dissolve the sugar to create a syrup.
- Sugar: The main ingredient in simple syrup is granulated white sugar. It provides sweetness and acts as the primary flavor component.
How to Make Simple Syrup
The full recipe with measurements is in the recipe card below.
Step 1: Combine sugar and water in a saucepan and warm it over medium heat. Stir the mixture until the sugar completely dissolves.
Step 2: Remove the pan from heat and let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container.
Storage
Let the mixture cool and transfer it to an airtight container. Keep the sauce in the refrigerator for one month.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just use sugar instead of simple syrup?
Using granulated sugar in place of simple syrup won’t always give you the results you’re looking for. Simple syrup is a liquid sweetener made by dissolving sugar in water, so it blends smoothly into drinks and recipes. Plain sugar, on the other hand, doesn’t always dissolve completely, which can leave you with a grainy texture.
What’s the best ratio for simple syrup?
The best ratio depends on how sweet you want the syrup to be. I usually go with equal parts sweetener and water.
What other sugars can I use when making simple syrup?
You can use brown sugar, palm sugar, molasses, coconut sugar, honey, and maple syrup. Prepare them the same way you’d make simple syrup with granulated sugar. Each one brings its own unique flavor.
More Substitution Ideas:
Substitute for Simple Syrup
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated white sugar
- Combine sugar and water in a saucepan and warm it over medium heat. Stir the mixture until the sugar completely dissolves.
- Remove the pan from heat and let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container.