Simple Syrup Substitutions

Ready to make your favorite recipe but out of simple syrup? No worries! I have a breakdown of the best substitutes for simple syrup that you can make at home. And I included a few healthier alternatives. 

Jump to:

• What is Simple Syrup
• Why Use Simple Syrup
• Can I use Sugar for Simple Syrup?
• The Best Simple Syrup Substitutes
• Expert Tips
• Sugar-Free Alternatives
• 📖 Recipe Card
• ⭐Reviews

What is Simple Syrup

Simple syrup, typically made with a 1:1 ratio of white sugar and water, provides a sweet and liquid base for cocktails, beverages, and desserts. White sugar is dissolved and hot water.

Once the liquid cools it stays suspended which makes it easy to mix into cold beverages. Simple syrup is also brushed on layer cakes and other desserts to keep them moist. 

Why Use Simple Syrup

Simple syrup serves as a key ingredient in many recipes because it provides a convenient way to add sweetness and flavor.

Unlike granulated sugar, simple syrup is in liquid form, allowing it to dissolve quickly and evenly in cold or hot beverages providing a consistent sweetness throughout.

Simple syrup can also be infused with herbs, fruits, or spices, adding complexity and depth to the flavors.

Can I use Sugar for Simple Syrup?

You cannot use straight sugar for simple syrup. The sugar needs to be dissolved in a liquid in order to properly combine with other ingredients.

Good news, if you have sugar on hand you can make simple syrup in 5 minutes with a 1:1 ration of water and sugar.

The Best Simple Syrup Substitutes

I think this goes without saying but if you are out of simple syrup and you have regular sugar on hand you can which up a quick batch of your own simple syrup in about 5 minutes.

Combine equal parts white sugar and hot water in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Let it cool before using it and store the leftover syrup for next time. 

Assuming you don't have any sugar, here are the best options to use in place of simple syrup and its uses. 

• Agave Syrup
• Honey Syrup
• Maple Syrup
• Brown Sugar
• Fruit Purees, Juices, or Nectars
• Jam or Jelly
• Sugar-Free Syrups

Agave Syrup

Agave nectar, derived from the agave plant, serves as a natural sweetener with a mild flavor. Its low glycemic index and pleasant taste make it an excellent substitute for simple syrup. Replace simple syrup with agave in a 1:1 ratio to enjoy its sweetness and versatility in your favorite recipes.

Best For: Cocktail recipes, especially margaritas and anything that uses a sour mix. 

Honey Syrup

Honey offers a delightful alternative to traditional simple syrup. Often considered a healthy substitute, it is a natural option and probably the most popular choice.

To make honey simple syrup, combine equal parts honey and warm water, stirring until fully dissolved. This homemade syrup adds a unique flavor profile to beverages and can be used in baking recipes as well.

Don't make the mistake of adding honey directly to cocktails or iced tea, it won't dissolve in the cold liquid. 

Best For: Classic cocktails and anything with a vanilla flavor. 

Maple Syrup

Not just for pancakes, pure maple syrup can be a great substitute for simple syrup. Made from the sap of maple trees, it offers a unique, rich flavor that adds depth to your cocktails and desserts.

To use maple syrup as a simple syrup substitute, replace it in equal parts and enjoy the warm, caramel-like notes it brings to your creations.

Now you can use pancake syrup, which is maple syrup with some additives. And yes you will still need to mix it with warm water so that it doesn't clump up. But the maple flavor will not be as strong. 

Best For: Whiskey cocktails and apple desserts. 

Brown Sugar

With its rich molasses notes and deep caramel-like taste, brown sugar adds a unique complexity to your drinks and desserts. Not just brown sugar but any granulated sugar can be used.

For example, coconut sugar, turbinado, or muscovado. And I especially love this recipe for Demara simple syrup. 

All of these options will make great simple syrup substitutions. They all follow the standard simple ratio of equal parts of sugar and water. Each of these sugars will create their own rich simple syrup. 

Best For:  Coffee drinks, and anything pumpkin flavored.

Fruit Puree, Juice, and Nectars

If you are looking to simply add a touch of sweetness try fresh fruit or fruit nectar. While this method won't be a syrup, fruit juices are naturally sweet and you probably have a variety of options on hand! 

Best For: Mocktails and frozen cocktails

Jam and Preserves

Looking for a delectable syrup to drizzle over your cakes? Jam and preserves make an ideal substitute for simple syrup. With their concentrated fruit flavors and sweetness, they provide a luscious and flavorful option to moisten and enhance your cakes.

Simply mix 2 tablespoons of jam with ½ cup of warm water until a sweet syrup forms. The rich fruitiness and sweet indulgence will elevate your cakes to new heights of deliciousness. 

Say goodbye to plain simple syrup and embrace the enticing allure of using jam and preserves as a delightful cake syrup substitute.

Best For: Cakes and quick bread.

Expert Tips

• Do not use molasses to make simple syrup without adding another sweetener. It is simply too bitter on its own. 
• Skip the corn syrup. Use one of the options for better flavor. 

Sugar-Free Alternatives

Many grocery stores offer sugar-free or low-sugar substitutes for simple syrup. These products can be a convenient option for those seeking a quick and healthier alternative without compromising on taste. But you can also make your own. 

Monk Fruit

Monk fruit is a natural sweetener that has gained popularity for its zero-calorie and zero-sugar properties but it does have a distinctive aftertaste. With its concentrated sweetness, a little goes a long way.

You can find monk fruit in powdered or liquid form. In liquid form, you add a few drops to your drinks.

The powdered form will need to be made into syrup by mixing with water just like any simple syrup recipe. I do not recommend the liquid form for baking. 

Best For: Any recipe that needs to be converted to sugar-free.

Stevia

Stevia is another well-known sugar substitute derived from the stevia plant. It is highly regarded for its intense sweetness and zero-calorie nature.

Stevia is available in various forms, including powdered and liquid. Keep in mind that its potency differs greatly from regular sugar, so start with a small amount of stevia syrup and adjust according to your taste preferences.

Best For:  Coffee and tea drinks. 

Simple Syrup Recipes

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