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.

In a small saucepan over medium heat, bring sugar and 3/4 cup water to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until sugar is dissolved, about 3 minutes. Add optional ...

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 ...

It doesn't take much to completely elevate a dish. A squeeze of fresh citrus, a few cracks of black pepper, or a sprinkling of fresh herbs go a long way in creating complexity, freshness and a little ...

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.

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 ...

1 teaspoon super-fine sugar, OR 2 tablespoons simple syrup 4 dashes Angostura Bitters or Fee Brothers' Old-Fashioned Bitters 1/6 medium orange, a nice thick wedge 2 to 3 ounces Bourbon or rye whiskey ...