Easy 3-Ingredient Rosemary Simple Syrup

Elevate your drinks and desserts with this cozy Rosemary Simple Syrup. It’s not only quick and easy to make, but it also adds a delightful herbal touch to your favorite recipes. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or just because, this syrup is a must-have for your pantry.

Why You Will Love This Easy Syrup Recipe

• Versatile: Elevates cocktails, mocktails, tea, and desserts.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
• Rich Flavor: Sweet, herbal depth from fresh rosemary.
• Budget-Friendly: Cheaper than store-bought syrups.
• Great for Gifting: A homemade, thoughtful treat.

Ingredient Notes

Please note that this is just a quick overview — please visit the full recipe for the amounts and instructions.

Water: Water is the base of this rosemary simple syrup recipe, acting as the medium through which the flavors of the sugar and rosemary are extracted and combined. Make sure to use clean, filtered water for the best results.

Sugar: Sugar provides the sweetness that characterizes this syrup. While granulated white sugar is a common choice, you can also explore variations:

• Coconut Sugar or Brown Sugar: Gives the syrup a deeper, caramel-like taste.
• Cane Sugar: Offers a hint of molasses flavor, making the syrup slightly richer.
• Honey or Agave: Natural sweeteners that can be used for a different kind of sweetness. Keep in mind, the syrup’s consistency might slightly differ if honey or agave is used.

Sprigs Fresh Rosemary: Fresh rosemary sprigs are the star of the show! They infuse the syrup with a fragrant, herbal aroma and flavor. When choosing rosemary, opt for fresh over dried, as fresh sprigs deliver a more vibrant taste.

Substitutions and additions:

• Mint: If you’re in the mood for a different herbal note, mint is a refreshing alternative.
• Ginger: For a spicier kick, ginger can be a great addition or alternative.
• Lemon or Lime: Adding citrus zest or juice can introduce a zesty twist to your syrup. Perfect for summer drinks!

How to Make Rosemary Simple Syrup

1. Combine water, sugar, and rosemary in a small saucepan. Ensure the rosemary is submerged.
2. Heat over medium-high until boiling, then reduce to a gentle simmer for 5 minutes. Do not stir.
3. Steep off heat with the lid on for 15 minutes.
4. Strain out the rosemary and transfer the syrup to a jar or bottle.
5. Cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the fridge. Enjoy!

How to Use Rosemary Syrup

• Mocktails or Cocktails: Elevate drinks like my Frozen Blueberry Margarita Mocktail or mix with grapefruit, lime, and soda for a refreshing twist. It also pairs beautifully with gin, bourbon, or vodka-based cocktails.
• Desserts: Drizzle over cakes, brush on baked goods, or add to ice cream for extra flavor and moisture.
• Beverages: Stir into iced tea, lemonade, or cranberry juice for a sweet, herbal boost.
• Savory Uses: Add to salad dressings, like my citrus vinaigrette, for a subtle, gourmet touch.

Storing Simple Syrup

Pour the cooled syrup into a clean, airtight container or mason jar and seal tightly. Store in the refrigerator for up to a month. Always use a clean spoon or funnel to prevent contamination. If you notice bubbling, off-smells, or mold, discard and make a fresh batch!

Expert Tips

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh rosemary provides a more vibrant flavor than dried. Experiment with different sugars like brown or cane for unique taste variations.
• Simmer, Don’t Boil: A gentle simmer dissolves sugar smoothly and extracts rosemary flavor without caramelizing or burning.
• Adjust to Taste: Add more rosemary for a stronger flavor, steep longer, or increase sugar for extra sweetness.
• Try Variations: Customize with mint, ginger, or lemon juice for a unique twist on the classic syrup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?

While fresh rosemary sprigs are recommended for a vibrant flavor, dried rosemary can be used in a pinch. However, adjust the quantity since dried herbs are more potent than fresh.

Is it possible to make a sugar-free version of rosemary simple syrup?

Yes, you can use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol. However, the flavor profile and sweetness level may vary, so adjust to taste.

How can I make my rosemary simple syrup thicker?

For a thicker consistency, reduce the water amount or increase the simmering time to allow more water to evaporate.

Can I add other herbs or spices to my rosemary simple syrup?

Absolutely! Feel free to combine rosemary with other herbs like mint or thyme, or even spices like ginger, for a unique flavor twist.

What’s the difference between using white sugar, brown sugar, and cane sugar in the syrup?

White sugar provides a clean, sweet taste; brown sugar adds a molasses-like depth; and cane sugar offers a slightly earthy sweetness. Each one can bring a distinct flavor nuance to your syrup.

If my syrup crystallizes, what can I do?

If your syrup crystallizes, simply reheat it gently in a saucepan until the crystals dissolve. To prevent crystallization, ensure the sugar is fully dissolved during the initial cooking process.

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