Substitutes for Simple Syrup
Simple syrup is a liquid sweetener made from equal parts sugar and water, used in cocktails, iced coffee, lemonade, and baking.
The Short Answer
The best substitute for simple syrup is Honey (Diluted). Adds floral honey flavor. Works well in cocktails and drinks where the honey flavor complements.
Best Substitutes
Honey (Diluted) 👨🔬 Professor's Pick
Ratio: Thin honey with warm water to a pourable consistency
Works for: cocktails, iced drinks, lemonade, baking
Avoid for: recipes where honey flavor would clash
Flavor impact: Adds floral honey flavor. Works well in cocktails and drinks where the honey flavor complements.
Maple Syrup
Ratio: 1:1 replacement
Works for: cocktails, pancakes, baking, iced coffee
Avoid for: recipes needing a neutral sweetener
Flavor impact: Adds strong maple flavor. Works in fall cocktails, coffee, and baking. Not suitable when neutral sweetness is needed.
Agave Nectar
Ratio: Use 3/4 the amount (agave is sweeter)
Works for: cocktails, iced drinks, vegan recipes
Flavor impact: Neutral flavor, dissolves well in cold liquids. Slightly sweeter than simple syrup so use less. The best neutral substitute.
Making simple syrup takes 5 minutes and costs almost nothing. Combine equal parts sugar and water in a pot, heat until sugar dissolves, cool, and refrigerate. It lasts 2-4 weeks in the fridge. The reason bartenders use it instead of granulated sugar: sugar does not dissolve in cold liquids. Simple syrup does.
Frequently Asked Questions
Combine 1 cup sugar with 1 cup water in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring, until sugar is completely dissolved. Cool and store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks.
Yes. Simple syrup is just sugar fully dissolved in water. The standard ratio is 1:1 (equal parts by volume). Rich simple syrup uses a 2:1 sugar-to-water ratio for a thicker, sweeter result.
In hot drinks, yes. In cold drinks, no, because sugar does not dissolve in cold liquid. You will end up with gritty, undissolved sugar at the bottom. This is the entire reason simple syrup exists.
The Bottom Line
When you need a substitute for simple syrup, your best bet is Honey (Diluted). The right choice depends on your recipe and dietary needs. Start with the Professor's Pick and adjust from there.