Simple syrup is one of the easiest ingredients to whip up at home, but how do you store it so it stays fresh and tasting great?
Let’s dive into syrup storage, shelf life, and how you can help your homemade syrups last as long as possible.
Refrigerating simple syrup extends its shelf life and slows the future growth of bacteria. You can keep it at room temperature, but it will go bad much faster. If you plan use up it up within a few days, it can be stored at room temperature. Otherwise I highly recommend storing it in the fridge or freezer.
The best simple syrup storage containers
The very best container for simple syrup is a glass jar or bottle. Avoid plastics which can retain food odors and affect the flavor of your syrup.
I love 8oz Boston round style apothecary bottles for small batches, or larger swing-top bottles and mason jars for bigger batches.
If you’re making bigger batches of syrup, you definitely want to go with a container that’s easy to pour from. Amazon has a ton of great glass storage options in a huge range of sizes.
Tips to keep your syrup fresher for longer
If you’re like me, you make and use up a lot of small batches of flavored simple syrups whenever you’re in the mood to try a new drink or upgrade your morning coffee.
If you’re not like me, you might like to make one big batch of simple syrup and keep it on hand for a good long time for sweetening your coffee, tea, or cocktails.
No matter whether you use up your syrup in days or weeks, it’s always a good idea to start with super clean syrup making supplies and a clean (or better yet, sterilized) jar or bottle for storage.
You absolutely do not have to boil simple syrup. However, if you pour an equal measure of boiling water over your measure of sugar, you will help to kill off any little lingering nasties that want to turn your syrup south too quickly.
It goes without saying, but use quality, good-tasting water for your syrups. Go with distilled water if you’re really concerned about premature spoilage.
Do you have to refrigerate simple syrup after opening?
FAQ
How do you store simple syrup?
Does simple syrup harden in the fridge?
Does drink syrup need to be refrigerated?
Do you have to refrigerate brown sugar syrup?
How long does simple syrup last in the fridge?
In general, a basic syrup with 1 part sugar and 1 part water will last around 2 weeks in the fridge. Rich simple syrup (2 parts sugar to 1 part water) stored in the fridge will last longer, usually for a month or even longer.
Should simple syrup be refrigerated?
Refrigeration helps to slow down the growth of bacteria and extend the shelf life of the syrup. Storing homemade simple syrup in the refrigerator can help to prevent spoilage and maintain its freshness for a longer period of time. It is recommended to use an airtight container or bottle to store the simple syrup in the refrigerator.
Does brown sugar syrup need to be refrigerated?
Yes, it’s recommended to store your simple syrup in the refrigerator, as it helps to slow down the growth of mold and bacteria. By keeping it refrigerated, you are also ensuring that your syrup remains fresh and maintains its original flavor profile for a longer period of time. How long does brown sugar syrup last?
Can simple syrup be left out?
Simple syrup can be left out at room temperature for a few days, but it is best to store it in the refrigerator for a longer shelf life. Simple syrup is made with water and sugar, and the high sugar content helps to prevent it from spoiling.