Easy Rosemary Simple Syrup Recipe

This easy-to-make Rosemary Simple Syrup recipe is perfect to add a little herbal sweetness to your drinks and cocktails. 

Once you make this herbal rosemary syrup, you’re going to want to check out some easy rosemary cocktails – like my Smoked Rosemary Gin and Tonic and Old Fashioned. 

Or, if you’re looking for other syrup recipes, you can also try my Pumpkin Spice Simple Syrup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy – This simple recipe takes very little effort and uses simple ingredients that are easy to come by at any regular grocery store.

Economical – Making your own simple syrup at home is much less expensive than buying it in the store, especially if it is a flavored simple syrup.

Wide range of uses – You can use this syrup in everything from cocktails to tea to baked goods and everything in between. Plus, you can make all sorts of your own unique flavors. 

What is Simple Syrup?

Classic simple syrup is a liquid sweetener made by dissolving equal parts water and sugar. One of the advantages of using simple syrup is that you can dissolve it into room temperature or cold drinks, making it an easy way to sweeten cocktails, iced tea, lemonade, and more. 

Typically, simple syrup uses a 1:1 ratio of sugar to water. However, you can also make “rich syrup” – which differs from simple syrup in that it is typically a 2:1 ratio of sugar to water. A rich syrup is a thicker syrup and, obviously, sweeter than a regular simple syrup.

It’s also very versatile and can be infused with a variety of flavors – everything from herbs to spices to citrus flavors. It’s a great way to impart your own spin on recipes that require a sweetener. 

Ingredient Notes

• Fresh rosemary sprigs – You just need a handful sprigs. 

• Granulated sugar – Just typical white sugar is all that is needed for this recipe. If you want a richer, caramelized flavor, you can substitute brown sugar instead. 

• Water 

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Combine water and granulated sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally until the sugar is dissolved. The syrup should go from cloudy to clear as the sugar dissolves. 

Step 2: Add the sprigs of fresh rosemary and remove from heat. Allow the rosemary to infuse for at least 30 minutes. 

Step 3: Remove the rosemary from the pan and add the cooled syrup to a clean airtight container. Store in the fridge until ready to use. 

Expert Tips

• For a stronger rosemary flavor and aroma, rub the sprigs between your hands before adding them to the pot to release the fragrant oils. You can also leave the rosemary in the syrup for longer before straining it out to strengthen the flavor.

• Add some spice, by throwing in a cinnamon stick, a few anise pods, a hunk of ginger, and/or a citrus peel along with the rosemary for a variety of different flavors and combinations. 

• Store your simple syrup in a clean airtight container. I like to use mason jars or bottles with a pop top. If you use mason jars, you can use a pour spout lid for easy pouring. 

FAQ

How should I store simple syrup?

Store simple syrup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 weeks. You should throw it out if it becomes cloudy before that. 

Can I freeze simple syrup?

Yes, you can freeze simple syrup. I recommend freezing it in ice cube trays for easy portioning. However, keep in mind that depending the sugar ratio of the syrup may prevent it from freezing as solid as a normal ice cube.

Can I use dried rosemary to infuse simple syrup?

Yes, but I don’t recommend it as you’ll get a less dynamic and robust flavor compared to fresh herbs. However, if it is the only thing available, you can sub 1 teaspoon dried for each sprig of fresh rosemary. You’ll want to filter the syrup through a fine-mesh strainer.

What are some of the easiest ways to use the syrup?

Aside from cocktails, you can use it to make rosemary lemonade, sweet cold or hot tea, brush it onto baked goods to help retain moisture, or drizzle it into fruit salads. 

Did you love this recipe?
Please leave a 5-star 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 rating & review in the comments below.

📖 Recipe

Don’t forget to follow along on social media or subscribe for alerts on new recipes!
You can catch me on Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest, and Facebook.