When it comes to crafting unique and delicious cocktails, one essential ingredient that can elevate your drinks game is a flavorful simple syrup. Simple syrups are a versatile sweetener that can be infused with a wide range of flavors, from classic vanilla to more exotic options like lavender or cardamom. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering flavored simple syrup recipes that you can use to create stunning cocktails.
From the classic combination of strawberry and basil to the spicy kick of jalapeño, these simple syrups offer endless possibilities for experimentation and creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just starting out in the world of cocktail-making, we’ve got you covered with this comprehensive guide to flavored simple syrups.
Vanilla Bean Simple Syrup
Elevate your cocktails and desserts with this classic vanilla bean simple syrup recipe. With its subtle sweetness and creamy flavor, it’s a versatile ingredient to have on hand.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the split vanilla bean to the mixture and remove from heat. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle. Discard the vanilla bean.
4. Store the simple syrup in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Lavender Infused Simple Syrup
Elevate your beverages with the subtle charm of lavender in this easy-to-make simple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup dried lavender buds
– A clean glass jar or container with a lid
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat.
2. Stir until the sugar dissolves, creating a simple syrup.
3. Remove the syrup from heat and add the dried lavender buds.
4. Let it steep for 10-15 minutes, allowing the lavender to infuse into the syrup.
5. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into the prepared glass jar.
6. Discard the lavender buds and store the syrup in the refrigerator.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Tips:
– Adjust the amount of lavender to your taste preference.
– Use this infused simple syrup in iced tea, lemonade, or as a topping for yogurt or pancakes.
– The syrup will keep for up to 2 weeks in the fridge.
Spiced Cinnamon Simple Syrup
Add a cozy touch to your favorite beverages and desserts with this aromatic simple syrup flavored with the warmth of cinnamon and spices. Perfect for fall and winter gatherings, this recipe makes a great base for hot chocolate, coffee drinks, or as a topping for pancakes and waffles.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cinnamon sticks (4-6 inches long)
– 2 whole cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Combine water and sugar in a medium saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, cardamom, and nutmeg to the saucepan.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let steep for 10-15 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the syrup has thickened slightly.
5. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle. Discard solids.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Storage: Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Reheat before using.
Rosemary Lemon Simple Syrup
This refreshing syrup combines the citrusy zing of lemon with the earthy aroma of rosemary, perfect for sprucing up cocktails, iced tea, or even using as a topping for pancakes or waffles.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup fresh rosemary leaves
– Juice of 2 lemons (about 1/4 cup)
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon citric acid (for a more intense flavor)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add rosemary leaves to the syrup and remove from heat. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle. Discard the solids.
4. Stir in lemon juice and citric acid (if using). Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: None, as this is an infusion process
Ginger Honey Simple Syrup
This aromatic syrup combines the spicy warmth of ginger with the sweetness of honey, creating a perfect accompaniment to tea, cocktails, or as a topping for pancakes and waffles.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thin
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the water, sugar, and honey. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Add the sliced ginger to the syrup and remove from heat. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle. Discard the solids.
4. Add the lemon juice and stir well.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Yield: About 2 cups of syrup
Peppermint Simple Syrup
This peppermint simple syrup recipe is a delightful twist on traditional simple syrups, perfect for adding a burst of minty freshness to your favorite cocktails, desserts, and drinks.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup fresh peppermint leaves (or 2 teaspoons dried peppermint)
– 1 tablespoon vodka (optional, for preservation)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the fresh or dried peppermint leaves to the syrup mixture. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle. Discard the solids.
4. If using vodka, add it to the syrup and stir well. This will help preserve the syrup and prevent mold growth.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 1 cup simple syrup
Earl Grey Tea Simple Syrup
Elevate your baked goods, cocktails, and desserts with the subtle bergamot flavor of Earl Grey tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 Earl Grey tea bags (or 2 teaspoons loose-leaf tea)
– Optional: 1/4 cup citrus peel strips (orange or lemon)
Instructions:
1. Combine the water and sugar in a medium saucepan, heating it over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and add the Earl Grey tea bags (or loose-leaf tea). Let steep for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle or jar. Discard the tea leaves.
4. If using citrus peel, add it to the syrup and let it infuse for another 5-7 days in the refrigerator before straining.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Yield: Approximately 1 cup of simple syrup
Note: Store the Earl Grey Tea Simple Syrup in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. You can adjust the amount of tea and steeping time to suit your taste preferences.
Strawberry Basil Simple Syrup
Sweeten up your summer with this refreshing Strawberry Basil Simple Syrup! This flavorful syrup is perfect for topping ice cream, yogurt, or even using as a mixer for cocktails.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup hulled and sliced strawberries
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 lemon slice (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add sliced strawberries and chopped basil to the syrup. Stir gently to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the strawberries have broken down and the syrup has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle. Discard solids.
6. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cardamom Orange Simple Syrup
Add a unique twist to your cocktails or desserts with this aromatic Cardamom Orange Simple Syrup. The warm, sweet, and spicy flavors of cardamom pair perfectly with the brightness of orange, creating a delicious and versatile syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 2 whole green cardamom pods, crushed
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/2 teaspoon grated orange zest
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar, water, and crushed cardamom in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in orange juice and zest.
4. Let the syrup cool slightly before straining it through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle.
5. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Hibiscus Lime Simple Syrup
Elevate your cocktails and desserts with this vibrant and citrusy simple syrup, infused with the sweet flavor of hibiscus and a squeeze of fresh lime.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup dried hibiscus flowers
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon citric acid (for added brightness)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and add in the dried hibiscus flowers. Let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle. Discard the solids.
4. Add the lime juice and citric acid (if using). Stir well to combine.
5. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a simple syrup that requires no cooking time.
Maple Bourbon Simple Syrup
Elevate your cocktail game with this rich and velvety simple syrup infused with the warmth of bourbon and the sweetness of maple syrup. Perfect for adding depth to your favorite drinks, from classic cocktails to creative concoctions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey (at least 80 proof)
– Optional: flavorings such as vanilla beans or citrus zest
Instructions:
1. Combine the water and sugar in a medium saucepan, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Add the maple syrup and bourbon whiskey. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the syrup has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Chai Spiced Simple Syrup
Elevate your tea, coffee, or cocktails with a sweet and spicy twist using this easy-to-make Chai Spiced Simple Syrup. This fragrant syrup combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and black tea to create a delightful addition to any beverage.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 whole cinnamon sticks
– 4-6 whole cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 2 black tea bags (preferably Assam or Ceylon)
Instructions:
1. Combine water and sugar in a medium saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, ginger, and cardamom to the syrup. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse their flavors.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for an additional 5 minutes with the tea bags.
4. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle. Discard solids.
5. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Coconut Simple Syrup
Elevate your cocktails and desserts with this creamy and rich Coconut Simple Syrup. With just a few ingredients, you can create a versatile condiment perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in unsweetened shredded coconut. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the coconut flavor to meld with the syrup.
4. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle. Discard the solids.
5. If using ginger, stir it in just before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Blackberry Thyme Simple Syrup
Elevate your cocktails and desserts with this sweet and savory simple syrup infused with the flavors of blackberries and thyme.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blackberries
– 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the blackberries and thyme to the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the berries have broken down and the mixture has thickened slightly.
3. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle. Discard the solids.
4. If desired, add the lemon juice and stir to combine.
5. Store the simple syrup in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Jalapeño Simple Syrup
Elevate your cocktails and desserts with a spicy twist using this Jalapeño Simple Syrup recipe.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 jalapeños, sliced
• 1 lemon, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the sliced jalapeños to the mixture. If using lemons, add them as well.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it steep for 10-15 minutes or until the syrup has reached your desired level of spiciness.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the syrup cool to room temperature.
5. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle. Discard the solids.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Yield: Approximately 2 cups
Use this spicy simple syrup in cocktails, desserts, or as a flavor enhancer for your favorite recipes!
Pineapple Sage Simple Syrup
Elevate your cocktails and desserts with this sweet and savory syrup, infused with the essence of pineapple and sage.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup fresh pineapple chunks
• 4-6 fresh sage leaves
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add pineapple chunks and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly.
3. Remove from heat and add fresh sage leaves. Let steep for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle. Discard solids.
5. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cherry Vanilla Simple Syrup
This sweet and tangy simple syrup is perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your favorite cocktails, desserts, or even yogurt parfaits. With the combination of cherry and vanilla, this syrup is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup cherry juice (such as Maraschino or Cherry Pie filling)
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the cherry juice and vanilla extract.
4. Let the syrup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemongrass Ginger Simple Syrup
Add a burst of citrusy freshness and spicy warmth to your cocktails, teas, or desserts with this Lemongrass Ginger Simple Syrup recipe. This sweet and tangy syrup is perfect for experimenting with new flavor combinations.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemongrass juice (about 2-3 stalks)
– 1/4 cup grated fresh ginger (about 1-inch piece)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Combine the water and sugar in a medium saucepan, whisking until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the lemongrass juice, grated ginger, and lemon juice to the saucepan.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before straining the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle.
5. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Raspberry Rose Simple Syrup
Add a touch of elegance to your cocktails or desserts with this sweet and tangy Raspberry Rose Simple Syrup. Perfect for warm weather, this flavorful syrup combines the sweetness of raspberries with the subtle charm of rose petals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
– 1 tablespoon dried rose petals
– 1 lemon slice (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the raspberries and rose petals to the syrup. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle. Discard the solids.
4. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Use within 6 months.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Simple Syrup
Elevate your cocktails and desserts with a rich, smoky flavor profile using chipotle peppers in adobe sauce. This simple syrup is perfect for adding depth to your favorite drinks and recipes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobe sauce (canned or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle. Discard the solids.
4. Add the chipotle peppers in adobe sauce and honey to the simple syrup. Stir until well combined.
5. Store the Smoky Chipotle Simple Syrup in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Summary
Discover the art of flavored simple syrup with these 20 delicious recipes for cocktails. From classic flavors like vanilla and strawberry to more unique combinations like lavender and rosemary, there’s something for every taste bud. Infuse your drinks with the warmth of spices like cinnamon and cardamom or add a hint of smokiness with chipotle. Try using earl grey tea or hibiscus lime syrup in your next cocktail creation. These simple syrups are easy to make and can be used in a variety of mixed drinks, from classic cocktails to craft concoctions.
