Simple syrup is a liquid sweetener typically used in cocktails and mocktails to create an even sweeter flavor. This syrup is a staple for professional bartenders and drink hobbyists alike, and it pairs well with many different flavors. But what exactly goes into simple syrup, and how can you use it at home?
Simple syrup is typically made by heating equal parts water and sugar over medium heat. Some people add more sugar to create what’s known as ‘rich simple syrup.’ Standard simple syrup can last for about a month in the fridge, but the higher the sugar concentration, the longer it’ll keep.
Let’s take a closer look at simple syrup, including how to make it, how long it’ll last, and how you can use it effectively.
What Is the Ratio for Simple Syrup?

The ratio for simple syrup is very easy to remember since it’s just equal parts sugar and water — at least for your standard syrup.
Most bartenders use this ratio, though it’s not a hard and fast rule for those who are making simple syrup in their own homes. You can adjust the ratio as you like to create the perfect syrup for your needs.
What Is Rich Simple Syrup?
For those who are craving an even sweeter simple syrup, rich simple syrup contains even more sugar. It’s typically two parts sugar to one part water.
If you’re using rich simple syrup, it’s wise to start with adding less of it to your drink than you would with standard simple syrup, as this concoction can quickly become too sweet.
How Long Does Simple Syrup Last?
If you don’t refrigerate simple syrup, it won’t last more than a couple of days. In the fridge, however, it should be good for around a mouth. Still, it’s always a good idea to check that nothing about it smells off before using it.
If you make rich simple syrup, you can expect it to last a lot longer, thanks to the higher concentration of sugar. Rich simple syrup can last up to six months.
How to Make Simple Syrup
To make simple syrup, start by heating water up over medium heat. You should then add equal parts sugar for simple syrup or two parts sugar to one part water for rich simple syrup and stir until the sugar is dissolved. You can then pour it through a strainer and bottle it.
If you plan on adding other flavors to your simple syrup, you can do this towards the end of the process.
You can also purchase simple syrup (on Amazon).
How to Add Flavors to Your Simple Syrup

Most fruit flavors pair well with simple syrup. Simply boil the fruit with water and sugar until the fruit is soft and falling apart, then pour the whole thing through a mesh strainer.
Don’t wait for the fruit to dissolve entirely, as you only need some of it to infuse into the liquid.
This should result in you having a fruity simple syrup of your choice! Some fruits that go well with simple syrup include:
- Strawberries
- Blueberries
- Oranges
- Raspberries
- Peaches
- Cherries
Although fruits a great pairing with simple syrup, the best thing about this sweetener is that it pairs well with nearly anything.
You can even choose to include some spices and chipotle peppers if you want your simple syrup to have a kick. Just make sure you taste as you go, or it may end up being too strong.
You can also try adding different extracts to your simple syrup. Peppermint, coffee, and vanilla extracts are all great add-ins for your syrup, depending on your personal tastes and how you’d like to use the syrup.
What Can I Use Simple Syrup for?
Although simple syrup is most commonly used in cocktails and mocktails, there are a lot of different ways you can use it. Putting simple syrup in coffee is another great choice, and it works well in both iced and hot drinks (brown sugar syrup is a great option for coffee). You can also pour it over pancakes for a sweet breakfast.
Simple syrup can even liven up an old club soda or tonic water; it doesn’t necessarily need to be used in elaborate drinks or even alcoholic ones. It’s also a great addition to plain lemonade!
Overall, simple syrup is a delicious addition to many foods and drinks. The joy of it is its versatility, as well as how easy it is to make. Give it a try!