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 ...

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.

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 ...