how to make demerara syrup

3 min read 05-02-2025

Meta Description: Learn how to make delicious demerara syrup at home! This easy recipe uses just two ingredients and is perfect for cocktails, coffee, pancakes, and more. Discover the simple steps and tips for making the perfect batch, plus variations to customize your syrup. Get ready to elevate your beverages and desserts!

What is Demerara Syrup?

Demerara syrup is a rich, amber-colored syrup made from demerara sugar, a type of raw cane sugar with large, coarse crystals. Unlike refined white sugar, demerara sugar retains its molasses, giving the syrup a deeper, more complex flavor than simple syrup. This delicious syrup adds a unique caramel-like sweetness and a beautiful golden hue to various drinks and dishes.

It's incredibly versatile! Use it to sweeten coffee, cocktails, or even drizzle it over pancakes and desserts. The slightly more complex flavor profile compared to simple syrup makes it a sophisticated upgrade to your favorite recipes.

Ingredients You'll Need

Making demerara syrup is incredibly simple; you only need two ingredients:

Demerara Sugar: This is the star of the show! Look for it in the baking aisle of most grocery stores.
Water: Use filtered or spring water for the best results.

Equipment

You'll need just a few basic kitchen tools:

Small saucepan: A saucepan that's not too large will help prevent the syrup from boiling over.
Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the mixture.
Heat-resistant measuring cup or bowl: To measure your ingredients.
Sterilized jars or bottles: To store your finished syrup.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Demerara Syrup

1. Combine Sugar and Water:

In your small saucepan, combine equal parts demerara sugar and water. For example, start with 1 cup of demerara sugar and 1 cup of water. You can easily double or triple the recipe depending on your needs.

2. Heat Gently:

Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir constantly with your wooden spoon until the sugar is completely dissolved. Don't rush this step; slow and steady ensures even dissolving.

3. Bring to a Simmer:

Once the sugar is dissolved, continue to heat the mixture gently, stirring occasionally, until it comes to a simmer. Avoid letting it boil rapidly, as this can cause it to crystallize.

4. Simmer and Thicken:

Reduce the heat to low and let the syrup simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes, or until it slightly thickens. The syrup should coat the back of a spoon.

5. Cool and Store:

Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the syrup cool completely. Once cool, pour it into your sterilized jars or bottles. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks.

Tips for Perfect Demerara Syrup

Don't overcook: Overcooked syrup can become grainy. Keep a close eye on it while it simmers.
Skim off impurities: If you notice any impurities floating on the surface while it simmers, carefully skim them off with a spoon.
Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet syrup, slightly reduce the amount of sugar.
Experiment with flavors: Add a cinnamon stick, a few slices of ginger, or a vanilla bean during the simmering process for a unique twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long does demerara syrup last?

A: Properly stored in the refrigerator, demerara syrup will last for about 2-3 weeks.

Q: Can I use other types of sugar?

A: While demerara sugar gives the syrup its signature flavor, you can experiment with other raw sugars, but the flavor profile will differ.

Q: What can I use demerara syrup for?

A: Demerara syrup is fantastic in coffee, cocktails (Old Fashioneds, anyone?), as a topping for pancakes, waffles, ice cream, and even in baking.

Conclusion

Making your own demerara syrup is easier than you think. This simple recipe allows you to create a delicious, versatile sweetener perfect for elevating your favorite beverages and desserts. So ditch the store-bought syrups and give this recipe a try—you won't regret it! Enjoy the sweet reward of homemade goodness.