Out of Simple syrup, one case
Simple syrup substitute for old fashioned
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Maple syrup
Same amount as the simple syrup
For old fashioned cocktails, the best simple syrup substitutes are maple syrup, demerara simple syrup, and agave nectar. Use 1:1 ratio and stir gently to maintain the cocktail's clarity.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- different taste, similar texture
- Best for —
- bourbon old fashioned
One casethe full simple syrup card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of simple syrup | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Maple syrupbourbon old fashioned | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Demerara simple syrupclassic old fashioned | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Agave nectarwhen you want neutral flavor | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Honeyfloral old fashioned | Same amount, warmedTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Brown sugar + waterwhen you have time to make it | Same amount, dissolvedTweak it | Tweak it |
Maple syrup
different taste, similar texture
Rich, complex sweetener that adds warmth and depth to old fashioned cocktails. The maple flavor complements whiskey beautifully.
- Best for
- bourbon old fashioned, rye old fashioned, when you want maple flavor, fall and winter old fashioned
Maple syrup adds a distinct flavor that works beautifully in whiskey-based cocktails. It's slightly less sweet than simple syrup, so you might need a bit more. The maple flavor complements the whiskey's natural flavors.
Demerara simple syrup
different taste, similar texture
Rich simple syrup made with brown sugar that adds depth and complexity to old fashioned cocktails. This is often preferred over regular simple syrup.
- Best for
- classic old fashioned, when you want richer flavor, bourbon cocktails, traditional old fashioned
Demerara simple syrup is made with brown sugar and has a richer, more complex flavor than regular simple syrup. It's actually preferred by many bartenders for old fashioned cocktails.
Agave nectar
similar taste and texture
Neutral-flavored sweetener that won't interfere with the whiskey's natural flavors. Good for maintaining the traditional old fashioned taste.
- Best for
- when you want neutral flavor, classic old fashioned, when you want to highlight the whiskey
Agave nectar has a neutral flavor that won't interfere with the whiskey's natural flavors. It's slightly sweeter than simple syrup, so you might use 10-15% less.
Honey
different taste, similar texture
Natural sweetener that adds floral complexity to old fashioned cocktails. Works well but requires warming to mix properly.
- Best for
- floral old fashioned, when you want added complexity, hot old fashioned, honey-based variations
Honey adds a pleasant floral note to old fashioned cocktails but needs to be warmed or thinned with a little hot water to mix properly. It's slightly sweeter than simple syrup.
Brown sugar + water
different taste, similar texture
Make your own demerara-style simple syrup by dissolving equal parts brown sugar and water. This gives you control over the sweetness level.
- Best for
- when you have time to make it, emergency situations, when you want to control the sweetness level
This creates a demerara-style simple syrup. Mix equal parts brown 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 preference.
How it behaves in this recipe
In old fashioned cocktails, the sweetener serves to balance the strength of the whiskey and the bitterness of the bitters. The best substitutes add complexity and depth that complements the whiskey's natural flavors. Maple syrup and demerara simple syrup are particularly good because they add richness and complexity that enhances the cocktail, while agave nectar maintains a neutral flavor that lets the whiskey shine.
Tips for substituting simple syrup
9 tips- For old fashioned cocktails, stir gently with ice for 20-30 seconds to maintain clarity
- Don't shake old fashioned cocktails - stirring preserves the cocktail's clarity and texture
- When using honey, warm it slightly or thin with a little hot water before adding to cold drinks
- For agave nectar, you can use it straight from the bottle as it mixes easily
- Taste your old fashioned and adjust the sweetener amount based on your preference
- The traditional old fashioned ratio is 2:1:1 (whiskey:sweetener:water), but adjust to taste
- Use good quality whiskey - the sweetener won't mask poor quality spirits
- For maple syrup, the flavor will complement bourbon particularly well
- Store homemade simple syrup substitutes in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks
Notes on simple syrup
- Use demerara simple syrup for authentic old fashioned flavor
- Try maple syrup for fall and winter variations
- Use flavored syrups like vanilla or cinnamon for unique old fashioned variations
- Try fruit syrups like cherry or orange for flavored old fashioned
- Consider sugar-free alternatives like stevia or monk fruit for low-calorie old fashioned
Questions
6 questionsWhat's the best simple syrup substitute for old fashioned cocktails?
For old fashioned cocktails, maple syrup and demerara simple syrup are the best substitutes because they add complexity and depth that complements the whiskey. Agave nectar is also good for a neutral flavor.
Can you substitute maple syrup for simple syrup in old fashioned?
Yes, maple syrup is an excellent substitute for simple syrup in old fashioned cocktails. It adds a pleasant maple flavor that complements the whiskey beautifully. Use a 1:1 ratio, but you might need slightly more since maple syrup is less sweet.
What can I substitute for simple syrup in an old fashioned?
For old fashioned cocktails, maple syrup, demerara simple syrup, and agave nectar are the best substitutes. Maple syrup adds complexity, demerara simple syrup adds richness, and agave nectar maintains neutral flavor.
Can you substitute honey for simple syrup in old fashioned?
Yes, honey can substitute for simple syrup in old fashioned cocktails, but it will add a floral flavor. Warm the honey slightly or thin it with a little hot water before adding to cold drinks to ensure proper mixing.
What's demerara simple syrup and why is it good for old fashioned?
Demerara simple syrup is made with brown sugar instead of white sugar, giving it a richer, more complex flavor. It's often preferred for old fashioned cocktails because it adds depth and complements the whiskey's natural flavors.
Can I substitute simple syrup for corn syrup in old fashioned?
Yes, simple syrup can substitute for corn syrup in old fashioned cocktails. They have similar sweetness levels and neutral flavors. Use a 1:1 ratio for best results.