Thyme simple syrup is so easy to make and is perfect for cocktails or mocktails! It pairs well with gin or vodka based cocktails such as this cranberry thyme fizz. Thyme simple syrup also mixes well with lemonade or ice tea! It will certainly evaluate your beverage of choice and bring flavors to a whole other level!
Simple syrup is a key ingredient in many homemade cocktails. While you can purchase it in a store, I find that homemade simple syrup is easy to make! It requires a 1:1 ratio of sugar and water plus a few sprigs of thyme or your herb of choice!
This thyme simple syrup is sweet and herbaceous. If you're a fan of sweet, herbaceous flavors I recommend checking out this honey lavender simple syrup as well!
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- It only takes 15 minutes to make and you only need 3 ingredients!
- Thyme simple syrup pairs well with both non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks.
- This is a great way to use up fresh herbs you're unsure what to do with!
Equipement Notes
- Fine mesh strainer - to strain out any thyme leaves.
- Mason jar or jar with a lid - for easy, airtight storage.
Ingredient Notes
- Fresh thyme - you can use it fresh from the plant or from the refrigerated section of the grocery store.
- Sugar - I recommend using white cane sugar.
- Filter water - this will help the simple syrup to last longer.
Substitutions and Variations
- Sugar - feel free to use your sugar preference whether it be raw sugar, cane sugar, coconut sugar or brown sugar. I like to use cane sugar because it has a neutral sweetness that allows the thyme flavor to be showcased.
- Honey thyme syrup - use honey or agave (for a vegan version) in place of the sugar.
- Berry thyme syrup - add ¼ cup of berries to the saucepan with the water, thyme and sugar. Mash the berries and bring the mixture to a simmer for a few minutes. Let it cool for 15 minute then strain. You can use blueberries, raspberries, strawberries or blackberries!
- Rosemary thyme syrup - add a few sprigs of rosemary to the saucepan along with the thyme.
- Dried thyme - add ¼ to ½ teaspoon of dried thyme leaves in place of the fresh thyme. Make sure to strain well before using.
Step by Step Instructions
Add the thyme, sugar and water to a small to medium sized saucepan.
Heat over medium-low, stirring frequently until the sugar dissolves. Do not let the simple syrup boil.
Let the simple syrup cool for 15 minutes up to 1 hour to allow the favors to infuse together. After cooling, remove the larger thyme leaves using tongs or a fork.
Strain the thyme simple syrup into a small jar using a fine mesh strainer. Let it fully cool before using in a drink. Enjoy!
Tips and Tricks
Make this a day ahead so the simple syrup will be cooled off and ready to use! I do not recommend using this while warm or hot because it will dilute the ice in your drink. Alternatively, if you are using this in a hot beverage such as tea, you may use it immediately.
Storage
Store the thyme simple syrup in an airtight jar for up to two weeks in the refrigerator. If the mixture starts to look cloudy or develops a strange oder please discard it. I do not recommend freezing this.
Frequently Asked Questions
Herb infused simple syrup such as thyme simple syrup can last for up to two weeks in the fridge.
Yes you can, but make sure to use a smaller amount than you would if using fresh herbs. Additionally make sure to strain out any dried herbs before using the simple syrup.
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Thyme Simple Syrup
Ingredients
- 10-15 Fresh thyme sprigs
- ½ cup filtered water
- ½ cup sugar
Instructions
- Add the thyme, water and sugar to a small-medium sauce pan.
- Heat over medium-low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Do not bring the mixture to a boil.
- Let the simple syrup cool for 15 minutes up to 1 hour.
- Remove the thyme springs using tongs or a fork. Strain the remaining syrup into a jar. Enjoy!
Notes
- Let the thyme simple syrup cool to room temperature before using, otherwise it will dilute the ice in your drink.
- This pairs well with vodka, gin, lemonade or ice tea.
Em says
I made this tonight for a gin cocktail and it was so easy to make!