**How to Make Simple Syrup: 12 Easy Steps**
Simple syrup is a versatile and essential ingredient in various cocktails, mocktails, and even some baked goods. This guide will walk you through 12 easy steps in order to create your very own homemade simple syrup.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup of water
– 1 cup of granulated sugar
**Equipment:**
– A saucepan
– A stirring utensil
– A heat-safe jar or container
**Step 1: Gather your ingredients and equipment**
To start, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients and equipment ready on your kitchen countertop.
**Step 2: Measure out your sugar**
Carefully measure out a cup of granulated sugar, which serves as the base of your simple syrup.
**Step 3: Measure your water**
Measure out an equal amount of water, using one cup of water for every cup of sugar.
**Step 4: Combine sugar and water in the saucepan**
Pour the measured water and sugar into your saucepan.
**Step 5: Heat the mixture on medium-high**
Place your saucepan on the stove and set the burner to medium-high heat.
**Step 6: Stir the mixture**
As the mixture heats up, stir it continuously with your stirring utensil to ensure equal distribution of heat and uniform dissolving of sugar.
**Step 7: Bring to a boil**
Allow your sugar-water mixture to come to a boil. Be sure to keep stirring during this step.
**Step 8: Reduce heat and simmer**
Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about three minutes, continuing to stir intermittently.
**Step 9: Turn off the heat**
After three minutes have passed, turn off the heat completely and remove the saucepan from the stovetop. Set aside!
**Step 10: Allow it to cool**
Let the simple syrup cool down for about 10 to 15 minutes, allowing it to thicken.
**Step 11: Pour it into a jar or container**
Once your syrup has cooled and thickened, carefully pour it into your heat-safe jar or container using a funnel if necessary.
**Step 12: Seal and store**
Securely close the lid on your container and store your homemade simple syrup in the refrigerator. It should last up to one month!
There you have it! By following these simple steps, you’ve successfully created your very own homemade simple syrup. Whether it’s for a cocktail party or a few sweet tea sips, this go-to recipe will always come in handy.