Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- Optional flavorings e.g., vanilla extract, citrus zest, flavored liqueurs
Instructions
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Gather Your Ingredients: Ensure you have all the ingredients and equipment ready. You'll need a saucepan, a stirring utensil, and a glass container with a lid for storage.
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Combine Sugar and Water: In the saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water. Use a 1:1 ratio, which means 1 cup of sugar for every 1 cup of water. You can adjust the quantity based on your needs; just keep the ratio the same.
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Heat the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously until the sugar completely dissolves. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Avoid boiling the mixture, as we're not looking to caramelize the sugar; we want a clear syrup.
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Optional Flavoring: If you want to add flavor to your simple syrup, this is the time to do it. You can add a splash of vanilla extract for a classic taste, or experiment with other flavorings like citrus zest, a cinnamon stick, or a flavored liqueur like Grand Marnier or amaretto. Add your chosen flavorings to the saucepan and continue stirring for a couple of minutes to infuse the syrup.
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Cool the Syrup: Once the sugar has completely dissolved, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the syrup cool to room temperature. Stir occasionally to ensure the flavorings are well incorporated.
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Strain (if needed): If you added solid flavorings like citrus zest or cinnamon, strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any solids. This will leave you with a clear, smooth syrup.
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Store Your Simple Syrup: Transfer the simple syrup to a glass container with a lid. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a month.
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Using the Simple Syrup: When your cake layers have cooled but are still slightly warm, use a pastry brush to gently apply the simple syrup to the surface of the cake layers. This will help keep your cakes moist and add a subtle sweetness.
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Enjoy Your Moist, Flavorful Cakes: With your simple syrup applied, your cakes will be delightfully moist and infused with your chosen flavor. Use it with a variety of cake recipes to elevate their taste and texture.
Recipe Notes
Simple syrup is not just for cakes; you can also use it in cocktails, iced tea, or to sweeten other desserts. It's a versatile addition to your kitchen that will quickly become a staple for baking and beyond.
