Smoked simple syrup recipe: elevate your cocktails

If you're looking to elevate your cocktail game, then look no further than smoked simple syrup. This homemade syrup adds a unique and smoky flavor to your favorite drinks, taking them to a whole new level. In this article, we'll explore what smoked simple syrup is, how to make it, and some creative ways to use it in your cocktails.

What is Simple Syrup?

Before we dive into the smoked version, let's start with the basics. Simple syrup is a mixture of sugar and water that is commonly used in cocktails as a sweetener. It's incredibly easy to make, requiring just two ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.

To make simple syrup, combine equal parts white sugar and water in a saucepan. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has completely dissolved. Once the mixture has thickened slightly, remove it from the heat and let it cool before using.

How to Make Smoked Simple Syrup

To add a smoky twist to your simple syrup, you'll need a few extra ingredients and a smoking technique. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Ingredients:
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 cup water
• Wood chips for smoking (e.g., hickory or applewood)
2. Combine the sugar and water in a saucepan and bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar has dissolved.
3. While the syrup is simmering, prepare your smoking setup. Place the wood chips in a smoking box or aluminum foil packet and heat them until they start to produce smoke.
4. Once the syrup has thickened slightly, remove it from the heat and place it in a heatproof container.
5. Quickly cover the container with plastic wrap, leaving a small opening for the smoke to enter. Position the smoking box or foil packet near the opening and let the smoke infuse the syrup for about 10 minutes.
6. Remove the smoking setup and seal the container tightly with the plastic wrap. Allow the syrup to cool completely before transferring it to a bottle or jar for storage.

Now that you have your homemade smoked simple syrup, let's explore some delicious cocktails you can create with it.

Cocktails with Smoked Simple Syrup

Smoked simple syrup adds an incredible depth of flavor to cocktails, making them more complex and intriguing. Here are a few cocktail recipes that are perfect for showcasing this unique syrup:

• Classic Old Fashioned: Combine smoked simple syrup, bourbon, and bitters in a glass with ice. Stir gently and garnish with an orange twist.
• Smoky Whiskey Sour: Shake smoked simple syrup, whiskey, lemon juice, and egg white vigorously with ice. Strain into a glass and garnish with a cherry.
• Smoked Tom Collins: Mix smoked simple syrup, gin, lemon juice, and club soda in a tall glass filled with ice. Garnish with a lemon slice and a cherry.
• Gimlet with a Twist: Combine smoked simple syrup, gin, lime juice, and a splash of soda water in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a chilled glass.
• Smoky Watermelon Margarita: Blend smoked simple syrup, tequila, watermelon juice, lime juice, and ice in a blender until smooth. Rim the glass with salt and garnish with a watermelon slice.

These cocktails are just the beginning. Feel free to experiment with different spirits, fruits, and herbs to create your own signature drinks using smoked simple syrup.

Other Uses for Smoked Simple Syrup

Smoked simple syrup isn't just for cocktails. You can also use it to add a touch of smoky sweetness to other beverages and desserts. Here are a few ideas:

• Sweeten Tea and Lemonade: Stir a splash of smoked simple syrup into your iced tea or lemonade for a unique flavor twist.
• Enhance Sorbets: Drizzle smoked simple syrup over homemade sorbets to add a smoky element to the fruity sweetness.
• Moisten Cakes: Brush smoked simple syrup onto cake layers to keep them moist and infuse them with a subtle smoky flavor.

How Long Does Smoked Simple Syrup Last?

Like regular simple syrup, smoked simple syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one month. Make sure to transfer it to an airtight container once it has cooled completely to maintain its freshness.

What People Are Saying

The Allrecipes community has tried and loved smoked simple syrup. Here are some reviews:

Super easy to make, says Richard_O. used it to sweeten some homemade cocktails and it was perfect! i might try adding some fruit or mint to it next time while boiling for a different taste!

Easy peasy — and a very nice alternative to plain sugar for iced tea, according to MO City Reviewer. i'll be keeping a bottle of this on hand in the fridge from now on.

I use this simple syrup to sweeten my tea all the time, says Casey. quicker, cheaper, and easier to make than to go to the store to buy it. and of course, it's super versatile, as it also works great in cocktails and to help moisten a cake.

Now that you have all the information you need, it's time to start experimenting with smoked simple syrup. Get creative with your cocktails and enjoy the unique and delicious flavors it brings to your drinks. Cheers!

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