SIMPLE SYRUP

Simple syrup is an essential ingredient in many cocktails, mixed drinks and baking because it blends so well with other liquids, and is so easy to make at home. In fact, when you learn how easy it is, don’t be surprised if you find yourself creating all different types of amazing fruit and herb syrups for your cocktails.

Really, if you can boil water, you can make simple syrup. Simple as that! The staple cocktail sweetener earns its name, consisting, simply, of equal-parts sugar and water. From there, the variations are endless. If you are looking to add a little spice to your batch, just steep a couple of jalapeño slices or cinnamon sticks.

For baking (and cocktails) add oranges cut in half during the boiling process or even add amaretto lacquer. Drizzle it on both the centre and top layers before icing. Just add a little to make it moist — don’t soak it or you’ll have a very soggy cake.

Now doesn’t that sound sweet?

INGREDIENTS:

• 1cup granulated sugar
• 1cup water

METHOD:

1. Add the sugar and water to a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
3. Let cool, then pour into a glass jar and seal tightly with a lid.
4. Simple syrup will keep, refrigerated, for about one month.

Cheers and bon appétit!