The secret ingredient in many professional layer cakes and a kind of magic to the home baker is called simple syrup and it’s precisely that: a syrup made simply of equal parts water and sugar.

Simple syrup is a common ingredient in drink recipes, whether you're making a cocktail like the French 75 or an iced coffee. Don't be tempted by bottled sweeteners; if you can boil water, you can make ...

Certain beverages, like lemonade or iced tea, are classics for a reason. They’re delicious just the way they are. Of course, sometimes you're in the mood for something extra to make your beverage ...

Yield: 2 to 2 1/2 cups (depending on added ingredients) 2 cups granulated sugar 1 cup water Flavoring (see options below) 1. In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water. Bring to a boil over medium ...

Steeping chiles and fresh ginger slices in basic simple syrup infuses it with a kick ideal for the holidays. You can add more of one or the other if you’d like more warm gingery heat or chile spice.