Simple Syrup substitutes

The closest substitute for Simple Syrup is Rich Simple Syrup, which works and barely changes the drink. More concentrated, so use less. use ¾ the amount. Sugar, Honey Syrup, Agave Syrup, Maple Syrup and Demerara Syrup also work. In a pinch, use Vanilla Syrup.

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What to use instead of Simple Syrup

Substitute	How much	Strength
Rich Simple SyrupAlmost the same More concentrated, so use less. Use ¾ the amount	Use ¾ the amount	Alcohol-free
SugarWorks, tastes different 1 tsp sugar is about 7.5 ml syrup; stir until dissolved. Same amount	Same amount	Alcohol-free
Honey SyrupWorks, tastes different Adds honey flavour. Same amount	Same amount	Alcohol-free
Agave SyrupWorks, tastes different Sweeter, so use a bit less. Use ¾ the amount	Use ¾ the amount	Alcohol-free
Maple SyrupWorks, tastes different Richer and sweeter, so use a bit less. Use ¾ the amount	Use ¾ the amount	Alcohol-free
Demerara SyrupWorks, tastes different Adds toffee and molasses notes. Same amount	Same amount	Alcohol-free
Vanilla SyrupLast resort Adds vanilla. Same amount	Same amount	Alcohol-free

Almost the same: most people won’t notice. Works, tastes different: still a good drink, just a different one. Last resort: better than skipping the drink.

Swap it in your drink

Pick a substitute to see how much to pour in each drink with Simple Syrup, how strong the drink ends up and when to adjust the sugar.

How they compare

Simple Syrup vs Rich Simple Syrup
Property	Simple Syrup	Rich Simple Syrup
Type	Mixer	Syrup
Strength	Alcohol-free	Alcohol-free
Taste	Sweet, Clean, Neutral	Sweet, Clean
Aroma	Neutral, Sweet	Neutral
Finish	Sweet, Smooth	Sweet, Smooth

Simple Syrup vs Honey Syrup
Property	Simple Syrup	Honey Syrup
Strength	Alcohol-free	Alcohol-free
Taste	Sweet, Clean, Neutral	Sweet, Floral, Rich, Complex
Aroma	Neutral, Sweet	Honey, Floral, Sweet
Finish	Sweet, Smooth	Sweet, Smooth, Lingering

Low and zero proof

An alcohol-free bottle can’t simply replace Simple Syrup: without the alcohol the drink needs rebalancing. These versions are worked out for you.

Make your own Simple Syrup (1:1)

The most essential cocktail syrup. Equal parts sugar and water create a liquid sweetener that dissolves easily in cold drinks.

Time: 5 minutes
Makes: 1 cup
Keeps: 2-4 weeks refrigerated

You need

Granulated sugar1 cup
Water1 cup

Method

Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan.
Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.Don't let it boil - you want to dissolve the sugar, not caramelize it.
Stir until sugar is completely dissolved and liquid is clear.
Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Transfer to a clean glass jar and refrigerate.

Store in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator.

What is Simple Syrup?

A liquid sweetener made from equal parts sugar and water. Essential for sweetening cocktails without the grittiness of undissolved sugar.

All 118 drinks with Simple Syrup

Got Simple Syrup? It also replaces

Questions about Simple Syrup substitutes

What is the best substitute for Simple Syrup?

Rich Simple Syrup is the closest substitute for Simple Syrup and barely changes the drink. More concentrated, so use less. Use ¾ the amount.

What can I use instead of Simple Syrup in a Daiquiri?

Rich Simple Syrup: swap 10ml (⅓ oz) of Simple Syrup for 7.5ml (¼ oz) of Rich Simple Syrup.

How much Rich Simple Syrup do I use instead of Simple Syrup?

Use ¾ the amount: 30 ml (1 oz) of Simple Syrup becomes 22.5 ml of Rich Simple Syrup. For Agave Syrup, use ¾ the amount. For Maple Syrup, use ¾ the amount.

Can I make Simple Syrup at home?

Yes. The most essential cocktail syrup. Equal parts sugar and water create a liquid sweetener that dissolves easily in cold drinks. It takes 5 minutes and makes 1 cup.

Out of Simple Syrup?

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