Simple syrup has countless uses—here it is combined with fruit to make frozen desserts, but it can also be used to poach fruits (see page 489) and to sweeten iced tea, lemonade, and cocktails.
Recipe information
Yield
makes 1 quart
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1
In a large saucepan, bring the sugar and the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until sugar has completely dissolved, about 10 minutes. Let cool. Use immediately, or transfer to an airtight container, and refrigerate up to 2 months.
Variation
Step 2
To infuse Simple Syrup with tender herbs such as basil, mint, or tarragon sprigs, ladle syrup over 1/2 bunch of herbs and let steep at least 30 minutes (and up to 2 hours, depending on desired strength). For other flavorings, such as sliced fresh ginger, cinnamon sticks, strips of citrus peel, and vanilla bean, it helps to bring the syrup to a simmer with the aromatics first, before steeping. Strain syrup, discarding aromatics, before using.
