5 Quick Substitutes for Simple Syrup

Simple syrup may be straightforward, but it elevates anything it touches. It’s the unsung hero in many recipes, adding not just sweetness, but enhancing flavors to make them pop and shine even brighter. 

While simple syrup is easy to make, if you're short on time, there are a few pantry staples that can serve as excellent alternatives. 

 What Is Simple Syrup?

Simple syrup is a basic yet effective liquid made by combining equal parts sugar and water, which are then heated until the sugar dissolves, creating a thick, sweet syrup. If you encounter a “rich simple” or “super simple” syrup, it means the sugar-to-water ratio is higher, resulting in a sweeter, thicker syrup. Simple syrup is quick to make and keeps well in the fridge for an extended period in an airtight container.

Simple syrup is primarily used as a sweetener in drinks. In cocktails, it’s essential for achieving the right balance, complementing the alcohol and balancing out the bitter, floral, and/or acidic notes. After all, balance is what makes a great cocktail.

It’s also an easy way to sweeten coffee or tea without leaving any gritty residue or the hassle of sugar dissolving. This is particularly useful for iced coffee or iced tea, where sugar struggles to dissolve in cold liquids and often settles at the bottom of the glass. 

Simple syrup is often used in baking as well, brushing a light layer onto cakes before frosting or filling to help keep them moist.

 Best Substitutes for Simple Syrup

The need for a simple syrup substitute often arises not from missing ingredients, but from time constraints. If you're in a rush, try one of these pantry essentials:

Maple Syrup

Maple syrup isn’t just for pancakes. Don’t worry about the maple flavor overpowering your dishes; its subtle sweetness can complement bourbon in cocktails and enhance fall-inspired flavors. It's actually a surprisingly good replacement for simple syrup in more situations than you'd expect.

The consistency of maple syrup doesn’t need to be altered for drinks. It dissolves perfectly in hot beverages and blends easily in cold ones. Just use it as-is, in a 1:1 ratio, just like you would simple syrup.

Agave Syrup

Agave syrup, derived from the agave plant, is often used in margaritas and other cocktails. It has a neutral flavor, making it an extremely versatile alternative. You can also substitute it in a 1:1 ratio.

Honey

Honey is much thicker than simple syrup and can be tricky to use in anything other than hot drinks. To make it more manageable, combine equal parts honey and water in a saucepan and bring to a gentle boil. Once the honey fully dissolves, remove it from heat and let it cool. This honey syrup won’t separate and can be used in the same quantity as simple syrup.

Molasses

Molasses requires a similar process as honey to loosen its thickness. Its deep, earthy, and slightly bitter taste should be considered when choosing where to use it, but it makes a great 1:1 substitute for simple syrup.

Other Flavored Syrups

If you have any homemade flavored syrups – like those infused with herbs, spices, or fruits – they can easily replace simple syrup. Store-bought syrups, such as the “pumps” found in some coffee shops, are also a good option. 

Sweet Liqueurs

For cocktails, liqueurs can be a sweet substitute if the flavor profile of the recipe allows. Amaretto or maraschino liqueur are both sweet enough to do the job, though the choice depends on the drink. For coffee, a splash of amaretto in place of simple syrup could be a delightful twist, depending on your mood.