I’ve shared quite a few simple syrup recipes and figured it would be helpful to share a simple syrup 101! This covers all kinds of questions, including my most frequent question of “how long does simple syrup last?”
A syrup that is equal parts of sugar and water will freeze better than a syrup with a higher sugar content. That 1:1 ratio has more water and will freeze easily. However, a rich syrup will eventually freeze, but at a lower temperature/freeze point.
What is Simple Syrup?
Simple syrup is usually made with equal parts water and sugar in terms of volume (i.e. 1 cup of water to 1 cup of granulated sugar).
The mixture is heated to help the sugar dissolve, which yields a sweet syrup that can be used to sweeten and flavor just about anything!
My favorite way to flavor it is to add vanilla bean paste. This packs it with delicious, warm flavor that goes well with just about everything!
Like I mentioned above, simple syrup is pretty easy to make! However, there are some substitutions and swaps you can make if needed.
- Water – Room temperature tap water works great in this recipe.
- Granulated Sugar – I like using granulated sugar because it’s what I usually have on hand, but you can also use extra fine sugar or caster sugar.
- Vanilla Bean Paste – This is optional, but I like to add pure vanilla bean paste. It speckles the syrup with little vanilla seeds that give it such a gorgeous look! However, you can also use regular vanilla extract! Just be sure you’re using good quality stuff because it has a huge impact of the flavor of this syrup.
Can You Store Simple Syrup in Plastic?
Simple syrup lasts the longest when stored in an airtight glass container, but it can be stored in a plastic container.
Some people store it in plastic squirt bottles to make it easier to pour into jiggers.
This is totally fine, just be sure to cap the tip of the bottle once you’re done using it or wrap the top with plastic wrap to keep it fresh.
How Long Does Simple Syrup Last?
FAQ
Why is my syrup not freezing?
What happens when you freeze simple syrup?
Why doesn’t grenadine freeze?
Does syrup freeze well?