Maple Syrup
Bar Prep • syrup
Description
A bar-friendly maple syrup (maple simple) made by diluting pure maple syrup with hot water to a pourable consistency for cocktails. Uses equal parts for a balanced syrup; optionally use 2:1 for a thicker, richer syrup.
History
Maple syrup has been produced by Indigenous peoples of northeastern North America for centuries and was later commercialized in New England and Quebec. Its use in cocktails has grown as bartenders favor natural sweeteners with distinct flavor.
Instructions
Step 1.
1) Choose a good-quality pure maple syrup (Grade A light/amber or dark, depending on desired flavor). 2) Measure equal parts maple syrup and hot (not boiling) water for a 1:1 syrup (standard bar use). For a thicker syrup, use 2 parts maple syrup to 1 part hot water (2:1). Example batch: 1 cup (240 mL) maple syrup + 1 cup (240 mL) hot water = ~2 cups (480 mL) finished syrup. 3) Pour hot water into a heatproof container, add maple syrup and stir until fully combined and uniform. 4) Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature. 5) Taste and adjust: use more maple for sweetness or a pinch of salt to round flavors. 6) Transfer to a clean, airtight bottle or jar (strain if you added any spices). 7) Label with date and refrigerate promptly. Use chilled or at room temperature as needed in cocktails.
Storage
Store refrigerated in a clean, airtight bottle. Keep labeled with prep date. Discard if you see mold, off-odors, or cloudiness after prolonged storage. For longer storage, freeze in portioned containers (thaw before use).