This Honey Simple Syrup uses only two simple ingredients with no refined sugar! It’s a healthier—and tastier!—way to make a cocktail.
Can I get a big old HOORAY for springtime? You guys—it’s patio season! Which, when you’re at my house, also means it’s cocktail season. I’m such a fan of warmer weather and the backyard parties and get-togethers that come along with it! And what is a party without a good selection of drinks? Recipes for mixed drinks can be so delicious and refreshing, but can also be VERY high in processed sugars.
So, while I was sipping a mojito, it got me thinking: Could I make the usual simple syrup with honey instead of using refined sugar? And guess what I found out? Yes, you can! Once you try this subtle, honey-flavored syrup, I can almost guarantee that you’ll want to use it for all your summer sips. Of course, you have to try this honey-based simple syrup in a Bee’s Knees Cocktail.
Is This Honey Simple Syrup Healthy?
Simple syrup is a MUST-HAVE at this time of year when the nice weather rolls in and you’re wanting to mix up some drinks for your family and friends. But all the refined sugar in the usual simple syrups? That’s not my favorite. I mean, sometimes you just have to go for it and enjoy the full sugar experience, but other times you can still get all the sweetness you need with this healthier homemade honey simple syrup. That’s right, it’s a better substitute for store-bought simple syrup and will make the most delicious cocktails!
What Exactly Is Simple Syrup
Used in cocktails, mocktails, and other drinks, simple syrup is really as simple as it sounds! To make it, combine equal parts sugar and water (1:1) in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar fully dissolves. For a thicker syrup, use a 2:1 ratio. Once cooled, it blends smoothly into drinks, adding subtle sweetness where regular sugar might not dissolve well. Simple syrup can also be infused with flavors like fresh herbs (mint, rosemary), warming spices (cinnamon, cardamom), or even vanilla and citrus peels, creating a versatile, custom sweetener for your favorite drinks.
How To Make Ahead and Store
Once you’ve cooked and cooled your honey simple syrup, it’s ready to be put to good use. Hello summer cocktails! Using an airtight container, you can store your honey simple syrup for up to 1 month in your fridge.
Serving Suggestions
Really, what can’t you serve with a great cocktail made with honey simple syrup? For an informal cocktail party featuring drinks made with honey simple syrup, I like to complement the sweetness of the drinks with appetizers featuring a mix of flavors and textures. Whipped Feta Dip offers a tangy, creamy base to serve with pita or veggies, while Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms adds a cheesy, savory and hearty flavor. Mix it up with the bold, spicy, and creamy kick of Buffalo Chicken Dip and finish up your spread with California Roll Sushi Bites, a light dish with avocado, crab, and soy sauce.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Combine the honey and water in a small pot and bring to a boil on medium heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer until thickened, about 10-12 minutes.
- Let cool and then transfer to an airtight container until ready to use.
- Add to your cocktail, and drink up!
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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