Easy Simple Syrup Recipe & Flavor Variations

Desserts

October 30, 2026

Easy 2-Ingredient Simple Syrup – vegetarian recipe

Easy 2-ingredient simple syrup is the smallest recipe with the biggest reach: granulated sugar and water, always in a 1:1 ratio, simmered about five minutes until clear. Stir it into drinks, brush it onto cake layers, or steep it with cinnamon. Ten minutes, one jar, endless uses.

The Secret to Perfectly Sweetened Drinks!

Ever tried to sweeten an iced coffee only to end up with a gritty layer of undissolved sugar at the bottom? Say goodbye to that problem forever! Simple syrup, also known as sugar syrup, is the secret weapon for perfectly blended cold drinks, cocktails, sorbets, and so much more. This incredibly easy, 2-ingredient recipe is a kitchen staple you’ll want to keep on hand at all times. It’s the simple solution you’ve been looking for!

Ingredients

• MAKES: 2 cupsTIME: 10 minutes
• 2 cups / 400g (14.1 oz) Granulated Sugar
• 2 cups / 473ml Water

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water.2. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved. This should only take a few minutes.3. Remove the pot from the heat and let the syrup cool completely to room temperature.4. Transfer the cooled simple syrup to a clean, airtight jar or bottle. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.

Nutritional Information

• Approximate values per 1 tablespoon (15 ml / 0.5 fl oz) serving:
• Calories: 48 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Sugars: 12g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 0mg

Pro Tips

• To create flavored syrups, add like cinnamon sticks, citrus zest, vanilla beans, or fresh mint to the hot syrup. Let them steep for 10-15 minutes before straining.
• The magic ratio is always 1:1 (equal parts sugar and water). You can easily scale this recipe up or down depending on your needs.
• For a richer, sweeter syrup (often used in cocktails), try a 2:1 ratio of sugar to water. This version is more viscous and will last even longer.
• Beyond drinks, use simple syrup to keep cakes moist (as a cake soak), macerate fresh fruit to draw out juices, or as a base for homemade sorbets and granitas.

FAQ

Q: Is this simple syrup recipe vegan
A: Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan and vegetarian. To ensure it is 100% vegan, use granulated sugar that is certified vegan, organic, or unrefined, as some conventional white sugars are processed using bone char.

Q: Can I make this with a different type of sugar
A: Absolutely. For a vegetarian or vegan alternative to refined white sugar, you can use organic cane sugar, coconut sugar, or turbinado sugar. Using these will change the color and flavor, often giving the syrup a richer, more caramel-like taste.

Q: What are some vegetarian uses for this syrup besides drinks
A: This syrup is incredibly versatile in a vegetarian kitchen. Use it to moisten vegan cakes, sweeten plant-based yogurt or oatmeal, macerate fresh berries for a dessert topping, or as the base for homemade fruit sorbets and granitas.

Q: How long does homemade vegetarian simple syrup last
A: When stored in a clean, airtight container in the refrigerator, this simple syrup will last for up to 6 months. The high sugar concentration acts as a natural preservative. If you notice any cloudiness or off-smells, it’s best to discard it.

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Easy 2-Ingredient Simple Syrup – vegetarian recipe
Stav Kogan

Easy 2-Ingredient Simple Syrup

An incredibly easy, 2-ingredient recipe for simple syrup (sugar syrup), the secret weapon for perfectly sweetened cold drinks, cocktails, sorbets, and more. A kitchen staple you'll want to keep on hand.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 2 cup
Calories: 48

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups (400 g / 14.1 oz) Granulated Sugar
  • 2 cups (473 ml) Water
  • To create flavored syrups, add like cinnamon sticks, citrus zest, vanilla beans, or fresh mint to the hot syrup. Let them steep for 10-15 minutes before straining.
  • The magic ratio is always 1:1 (equal parts sugar and water). You can easily scale this recipe up or down depending on your needs.
  • For a richer, sweeter syrup (often used in cocktails), try a 2:1 ratio of sugar to water. This version is more viscous and will last even longer.
  • Beyond drinks, use simple syrup to keep cakes moist (as a cake soak), macerate fresh fruit to draw out juices, or as a base for homemade sorbets and granitas.

Method
 

  1. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water. 2.
  2. Place the saucepan over medium heat.
  3. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved. This should only take a few minutes. 3.
  4. Remove the pot from the heat and let the syrup cool completely to room temperature. 4.
  5. Transfer the cooled simple syrup to a clean, airtight jar or bottle. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.

Nutrition

Calories: 48kcalCarbohydrates: 12g

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