Are you a fan of cocktails and mixed drinks? Then you’ve probably come across the need for simple syrup at some point.
This liquid sweetener is a staple ingredient in many popular drinks, from margaritas to mojitos. But where can you find it? Is it possible to buy simple syrup at a liquor store?
The answer is yes, but there are also other options available. In this article, we’ll explore the different ways you can get your hands on this essential cocktail ingredient.
So, grab a drink and let’s dive in!
Can I Buy Simple Syrup At A Liquor Store?
If you’re in a hurry and need simple syrup right away, your local liquor store may be your best bet. Many liquor stores carry pre-made bottles of simple syrup in their liquor department. This is a convenient option if you don’t have the time or desire to make your own.
However, buying pre-made simple syrup can be more expensive than making it yourself. If you’re looking to save some money, making your own simple syrup at home is a great option.
What Is Simple Syrup And Why Is It Used In Cocktails?
Simple syrup is a mixture of equal parts water and sugar that is commonly used as a sweetener in cocktails. It is made by dissolving white granulated sugar into water, creating a liquid sweetener that is easy to mix into drinks.
Simple syrup is the most common sweetener used by bartenders for cocktails because it dissolves easily, even in cold drinks. Unlike granulated sugar, which can take a long time to dissolve in cold beverages, simple syrup is already in liquid form and mixes easily. This makes it a time-saving option for busy bartenders who need to create cocktails quickly and efficiently.
In addition to being easy to mix, simple syrup also ensures that there are no sugar granules left in the drink when served. This is particularly important for cold drinks like iced tea and cold coffee drinks, where sugar can take longer to dissolve. Simple syrup eliminates the risk of sugar granules sinking to the bottom of the drink or floating around, ensuring a consistent and evenly sweetened beverage.
Using simple syrup in cocktails also helps to create a balanced flavor profile. The balance of sweetness and sourness in a cocktail allows the spirit to shine through, while the two flavors slightly neutralize each other. Simple syrup provides just the right amount of sweetness to balance out the sourness of many cocktail ingredients, resulting in a perfectly balanced drink.
Where Can You Find Simple Syrup?
If you’re looking to purchase simple syrup, you can find it in various sections of your local grocery store. In the Condiments section, where you would usually find other sweeteners such as honey and agave syrup, is a common spot for simple syrup. However, if you don’t see it there, it may be located in the baking aisle, the coffee aisle, or the alcoholic beverages aisle.
Different stores may choose to put simple syrup in different sections based on their preferences. For example, Whole Foods keeps simple syrup by the honey, but if there’s a liquor aisle in your Whole Foods, check there too. At Safeway, you can find Stirrings, Rose’s, and Master of Mixes simple syrups in the aisles with honey, liquid sweeteners, and cocktail mixes. Similarly, Kroger stocks Master of Mixes, Powell & Mahoney, and Monin in both the alcohol and pantry aisles (by the cocktail mixes and liquid sweeteners).
If you’re unable to find simple syrup at your local grocery store or prefer to shop online, Amazon is a great option. You can easily search for and compare prices for different brands of simple syrup. Liquor stores are also a good place to look as they often carry simple syrup for use in cocktails.
Buying Simple Syrup At A Liquor Store
When shopping for simple syrup at a liquor store, start by asking the cashier where they keep it. Most liquor stores carry simple syrup, so it shouldn’t be too hard to find. If you don’t see it right away, check the aisle with cocktail mixes first. If it’s not there, head to the alcoholic beverage aisles or the baking and condiment aisles. Liquid sweeteners like honey and agave syrup are often located in these areas, so you may find simple syrup there as well.
If you’re still having trouble finding simple syrup, check the coffee bean aisle or the soft drink aisle. Simple syrups are often used for coffee and lattes, so they may be located in these areas as well.
Keep in mind that the availability of simple syrup may vary depending on the liquor store. Some stores may have a larger selection than others, so it’s always a good idea to call ahead or check online before making a trip.
Other Places To Purchase Simple Syrup
If you’re unable to find simple syrup at your local grocery store or liquor store, there are other places you can try. Here are some additional options:
– Specialty Food Stores: Stores that specialize in gourmet or specialty foods may carry simple syrup. Check stores like Williams Sonoma, Sur La Table, or Dean & Deluca.
– Online Retailers: You can find a wide variety of simple syrup brands and flavors on online retailers like Amazon or specialty food websites. This is a great option if you’re looking for a specific brand or flavor that may not be available in stores near you.
– Coffee Shops: Some coffee shops may carry simple syrup as an ingredient for their drinks. If you’re already grabbing a latte or cappuccino, ask if they sell simple syrup as well.
– Farmers Markets: If you have a local farmers market in your area, check to see if any vendors sell homemade simple syrup. This is a great way to support local businesses and get a unique flavor of simple syrup.
No matter where you choose to purchase your simple syrup, it’s important to read the ingredients and check for any added preservatives or artificial flavors. Making your own simple syrup at home allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavor to your liking.
Making Your Own Simple Syrup At Home
Making your own simple syrup at home is incredibly easy and cost-effective. All you need is water and sugar, and if you can boil water, you can make simple syrup. Here’s a simple recipe to follow:
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water.
2. Heat the mixture over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Once the sugar has dissolved, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the syrup cool.
4. Once cooled, transfer the syrup to a clean glass jar or bottle and store it in the refrigerator.
One thing to note is that when you mix equal parts sugar and water, the resulting syrup will be less than the combined volume of the two ingredients. This is due to the chemistry of dissolving sugar, which creates a final product that is 3/4 the volume of the added quantities of sugar and water.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also infuse your simple syrup with fresh herbs like rosemary, mint, or lavender. Simply add your desired herbs to the mixture while it’s heating up and let them steep for a few minutes before removing them.
Tips For Using Simple Syrup In Cocktails
Once you have your simple syrup ready, it’s time to start experimenting with it in your cocktails. Here are some tips to get you started:
1. Measure carefully: When using simple syrup in a cocktail recipe, make sure to measure it carefully. Too much or too little sweetener can throw off the balance of the drink.
2. Adjust sweetness to taste: Not all cocktails require the same level of sweetness. Taste your cocktail as you go and adjust the amount of simple syrup accordingly.
3. Use flavored syrups for added depth: While plain simple syrup works well in many cocktails, flavored syrups can add an extra layer of flavor. Try making a mint or citrus syrup for a refreshing twist.
4. Experiment with different ratios: If a cocktail recipe calls for a specific type of simple syrup (rich or thin), feel free to experiment with different ratios to find the perfect balance for your tastes.
5. Store properly: Simple syrup can last up to a month in the refrigerator if stored properly in a well-sealed bottle. Make sure to label your bottle with the date you made the syrup so you know when it’s time to toss it out.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to use simple syrup like a pro in all your favorite cocktails. Whether you prefer classic drinks like the Old Fashioned or more modern creations, simple syrup is an essential ingredient that can take your cocktails to the next level.
