We’re probably going to be shunned by the cocktail community for saying this, but here we go: you do not need to make simple syrup on the stove. I repeat, you do not need a pan. Unless you’re planning on making hundreds of cocktails all at once, we’re going to teach you how to make simple syrup the easy way and in under 5 minutes. Anyone can make simple syrup at home with your microwave and with just a few ingredients you already have. Here’s how you do it:

Step 1:

Pour 1 cup of water into a glass measuring cup, mason jar, or ceramic mug.

Step 2:

Microwave the water for about 2 minutes, or until just starting to boil.

Step 3:

Measure 1 cup of white granulated sugar and pour into the hot water. This will achieve a 1:1 ratio of sugar to water.

Step 4:

Stir to combine, then allow to cool for a few minutes.

Step 5:

To help preserve the simple syrup, measure 1 tablespoon of vodka and stir into the sugary mixture.

Step 6:

Step 6: Pour into a plastic squeeze bottle for easy storage and use.

Stored in the refrigerator, 1:1 simple syrup made hot like we shared above should last about 1 month. Adding vodka will allow it to last closer to three months before growing mold. For us, that’s just about enough time to use a single batch before we need to make it again.

Just like we outlined above, you can create simple syrup alternatives really easily too. Replace the granulated sugar with maple syrup and you have maple simple syrup. Or, replace the granulated sugar with honey and you’ve got honey simple syrup. Another fun variation involves placing some herbs in the simple syrup overnight to create an infused simple syrup. We recommend trying herbs like thyme or rosemary, but we’re looking forward to seeing what you come up with.