Out of Simple syrup, one case
Simple syrup substitute: cocktails, drinks & baking
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Agave nectar
Same amount as the simple syrup
The best substitutes for simple syrup are agave nectar, honey, maple syrup, and corn syrup. Use 1:1 ratio for most applications, but adjust based on sweetness level and flavor profile desired.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- cocktails
One casethe full simple syrup card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of simple syrup | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Agave nectarcocktails | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Honeycocktails | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Maple syrupcocktails | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Corn syrupcocktails | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 5 | Granulated sugar + watercocktails | Same amount, dissolvedWorks | Works |
Agave nectar
similar taste and texture
Natural sweetener extracted from the agave plant with similar viscosity and sweetness to simple syrup. Good for cocktails and beverages.
- Best for
- cocktails, margaritas, old fashioned, espresso martini, mojitos, whiskey sour, beverages
Agave has a neutral flavor and similar sweetness level. It's slightly sweeter than simple syrup, so you might use slightly less. Good for cocktails where you want clean sweetness.
Honey
different taste, similar texture
Natural sweetener with floral notes and similar viscosity to simple syrup. Adds complexity to drinks and baked goods.
- Best for
- cocktails, baking, hot beverages, when you want floral notes, healthier alternatives
Honey has a distinct floral flavor and is slightly thicker than simple syrup. It's also slightly sweeter, so you might reduce the amount by 10-15%. Great for adding complexity to drinks.
Maple syrup
different taste, similar texture
Natural sweetener with rich, complex flavor and similar viscosity to simple syrup. Excellent for cocktails and baking applications.
- Best for
- cocktails, old fashioned, baking, when you want maple flavor, fall-inspired drinks
Maple syrup has a distinct flavor that works well in many cocktails. It's slightly less sweet than simple syrup, so you might need a bit more. Good for adding warmth to drinks.
Corn syrup
similar taste and texture
Neutral-flavored sweetener with similar viscosity to simple syrup. Best for applications where you want minimal flavor impact.
- Best for
- cocktails, baking, when you want neutral flavor, commercial applications
Corn syrup has a neutral flavor similar to simple syrup but is slightly less sweet. It's also thicker, so you might need to thin it slightly with water. Good for maintaining the original flavor profile.
Granulated sugar + water
similar taste and texture
Make your own simple syrup by dissolving equal parts sugar and water. This is essentially what simple syrup is made from.
- Best for
- cocktails, baking, when you have time to make it, emergency situations
This is literally simple syrup! Mix equal parts sugar and water, heat until dissolved, then cool. You can make it richer (2:1 sugar to water) or lighter (1:1) depending on your needs.
How it behaves in this recipe
Simple syrup is essential in cocktails because it dissolves easily in cold liquids and provides consistent sweetness without graininess. The best substitutes maintain this functionality while offering different flavor profiles. Agave nectar is particularly good for cocktails because it has a neutral flavor and similar viscosity, making it an almost good replacement.
Tips for substituting simple syrup
8 tips- For cocktails, temperature matters - use room temperature or slightly chilled substitutes for best mixing
- When substituting in cocktails, taste as you go and adjust ratios based on the specific drink
- For baking, consider the flavor profile - honey and maple syrup will add their own flavors
- In hot beverages, most substitutes will dissolve easily, but agave and honey work particularly well
- For cold cocktails, make sure your substitute is fully incorporated by shaking or stirring thoroughly
- When making your own simple syrup substitute, let it cool completely before using in cocktails
- Store homemade simple syrup substitutes in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks
- For sugar-free options, consider stevia or monk fruit sweeteners, but adjust ratios as they're much sweeter
Notes on simple syrup
- Make your own simple syrup by dissolving equal parts sugar and water
- Use flavored syrups like vanilla, lavender, or rosemary for added complexity
- Try demerara simple syrup (made with brown sugar) for richer flavor
- Use fruit syrups like grenadine or orgeat for specific cocktail applications
- Consider sugar-free alternatives like stevia or monk fruit for low-calorie options
Questions
7 questionsCan you substitute agave for simple syrup?
Yes, agave nectar is an excellent substitute for simple syrup. Use a 1:1 ratio, but note that agave is slightly sweeter, so you might use slightly less. It has a neutral flavor that works well in most cocktails and beverages.
What's the best simple syrup substitute for cocktails?
For cocktails, agave nectar is often the best substitute because it has a neutral flavor and similar viscosity. Honey and maple syrup also work well but will add their own flavors to the drink.
Can you substitute honey for simple syrup?
Yes, honey can substitute for simple syrup, but it will add a floral flavor to your drinks or baked goods. Use a 1:1 ratio, but you might want to use slightly less since honey is sweeter than simple syrup.
What can I substitute for simple syrup in a margarita?
For margaritas, agave nectar is the best substitute as it's traditional and has a neutral flavor. Honey and maple syrup also work well. Use a 1:1 ratio and adjust to taste.
Can you substitute simple syrup for corn syrup?
Yes, simple syrup can substitute for corn syrup in most applications. They have similar sweetness levels and neutral flavors. Use a 1:1 ratio for best results.
What's a healthier substitute for simple syrup?
For a healthier option, consider agave nectar (lower glycemic index), honey (natural and contains antioxidants), or maple syrup (contains minerals). Stevia or monk fruit sweeteners are also good sugar-free options.
Can I substitute simple syrup for sugar in baking?
Yes, but you'll need to adjust the recipe. Since simple syrup is liquid, you'll need to reduce other liquids in the recipe. Use about ¾ cup simple syrup for every 1 cup of sugar, and reduce other liquids by ¼ cup.