Glossary
Simple syrup
Sugar dissolved into water, typically one part sugar to one part water, used to sweeten cocktails without gritty texture.
Simple syrup is sugar fully dissolved into water, most commonly in a one to one ratio by volume or weight, though a rich syrup made with two parts sugar to one part water is also common because it sweetens more per pour and lasts a bit longer in the fridge. It is the standard sweetener behind classics like a Daiquiri or Whiskey Sour.
Dissolved sugar mixes into a cold drink instantly, while granulated sugar stirred straight into a shaker will not fully dissolve in cold liquid, leaving a gritty texture at the bottom of the glass. That is the entire reason the syrup exists as a separate step rather than just adding sugar directly to a shaken drink.
Homemade syrup is easy to make on the stovetop or by shaking sugar and warm water in a jar until clear, and it keeps in the refrigerator for a couple of weeks. A common mistake is making a batch too far ahead and letting it grow cloudy or moldy, since plain simple syrup has no preservatives. Flavored versions, like ones infused with herbs or spices, spoil even faster and should be used up quickly.