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Make Simple Syrup in minutes with just sugar and water! It’s a must have for cocktails, sorbets and more! It’s called simple, because it truly is!

Let’s get back to basics. You know my philosophy, it’s often easier to make things from scratch than purchase in store. Simple syrup is just that – simple.
It’s so quick and easy to make. I often make simple syrup for margaritas, mojitos, mint juleps and cocktails of all kinds! Make a large batch and store it in your refrigerator or just enough for a few cocktails, the choice is yours!
Table of Contents
Simple Syrup Ingredients
- Sugar
- Water
Yep, that’s it!
How to Make Simple Syrup
It only takes 5 minutes to make a batch of this homemade cocktail ingredient.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and water.
- Whisk until smooth, remove from heat and allow to cool.

What Is The Ratio Of Water To Sugar?
To make simple syrup, you’ll need equal parts water and sugar. For our purposes here, we’ll do a cup of each, which makes plenty of margaritas or a pitcher of drinks. These one to one ratio means that it is easy to make a big batch or just enough for a couple of drinks.
How Long Does Simple Sugar Keep?
Once the simple sugar has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to a jar or plastic bottle and it will keep in the fridge for around a month, sterilize the container you are storing it in with boiling water. You can also freeze the simple syrup to extend the shelf life, but you will need to thaw it and room temperature before using it.
Your simple syrup is past it’s best if it is cloudy, it should be clear in appearance.
How To Flavor Simple Syrup
Depending on your cocktail, it’s really easy to add flavor to this mixer. When heating the mixture, add in slices of lemon, mint leaves or orange peel to compliment your drink. It’s so easy to add flavor, so be creative and experiment!

A mojito made with this simple syrup is so perfect for parties! In fact, you can learn how to set up a DIY Mojito Bar that will be the best feature of your next gathering – don’t miss it, along with the Best Rum for Mojitos!
Tips
- Use equal parts sugar and water.
- Don’t let the mixture boil, it should be warm.
- Whisk until all of the sugar has dissolved.
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Did you make this? Rate the recipe and tag me on social @julieblanner!

How to Make Simple Syrup
Ingredients
- 1 cup white granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and water.
- Whisk until smooth, remove from heat and allow to cool.
Tips
- Use equal parts sugar and water.
- Don’t let the mixture boil, it should be warm.
- Whisk until all of the sugar has dissolved.
Video
Nutrition Information
Estimated nutrition information is provided as a courtesy and is not guaranteed.
janice says
but how much do u use in a drink?
Julie Blanner says
Cocktails will all call for different amounts but you can also sweeten to taste. We typically use about 1 teaspoon in most.
Mary Vigil says
I made it, was very easy and taste was great, thank you.
Julie Blanner says
Thanks!
Anonymous says
keely
Taylor Orsinger says
How many cups does this make? I wanted to make this for your lime sorbet recipe.
Julie Blanner says
About 1 1/2 cups. Enjoy!