How to make simple syrup
There are several ways to make simple syrup, but this is by far the most simple of methods. Get a mason jar, or another type of tight-lidded jar, add equal parts sugar and water, close the lid and shake until dissolved. Seriously simple, right?
Different kinds of sugar, like raw, brown, or demerara will yield different flavors. The darker sugars are better for darker spirits (think whiskey and brandy). The lighter sugars better for gins, vodkas, and light rums.
If you plan on using dark sugars, or making flavored syrups, try heating up the water in a pan and then dissolving the sugar. Then add whatever flavors like cinnamon, vanilla, mint, etc. If you bottle it and keep it refrigerated, the syrup will last longer. For some of the below recipes, you'll need flavored simple syrups, which you now know how to make!
Cinnamon Stick
1 ounce whiskey, your choice
1/2 ounce cinnamon simple syrup
4-5 ounces of apple cider
Ice
Fill a glass with ice, add whiskey, cinnamon simple syrup and apple cider. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.
Omit the ice and warm the mixture up, serve in a mug for a warmer fall treat.
Autumn Leaves
1.5 ounces of whiskey
1.5 ounces apple cider
2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
1 tablespoon maple syrup
Dash of cinnamon and nutmeg
Use a martini shaker and mix all ingredients together with ice. Shake vigorously for 10 seconds and pour. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and nutmeg.
Harvest Punch
2 ounces of rum (your choice)
4 ounces apple cider
1 ounce maple syrup
1 ounce lemon juice
Mix all ingredients with ice, then strain into large glass. Garnish with apple slices.
