Apple Simple Syrup

This apple simple syrup brings a soft, comforting sweetness that works beautifully in coffee, cocktails, mocktails, and lemonades. Made with real apples and simple ingredients.

Unlike my apple cinnamon syrup recipe, this one focuses mainly on the gentle apple flavor, making it perfect for the addition of pure subtle apple flavors. A similar flavor can be found in my pear simple syrup.

Ingredients

• Sweetener – white granulated sugar
• Water – filtered water
• Flavor source – apple (choose a sweet variety like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp)

Tip: Make sure you use a fragrant, crisp apple for the brightest flavor.

Syrup ratio

For apple simple syrup, these general ratios work well:

• Classic syrup: equal parts sugar and water gives a clean sweetness, letting the apple flavor come through.

• Rich syrup: 2 parts sugar 1 part water (2:1). It gives a fuller body and better shelf life. I find it really great for coffee syrups.

The ratio mostly affects sweetness and mouthfeel, not the apple flavor itself.

How to make apple simple syrup

Combine the sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has fully dissolved.

Add the chopped apple, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, just until the apple softens and releases its flavor. Similar to how I made other fruit syrups.

Remove from the heat and allow it to steep for another 10–15 minutes. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve, gently pressing on the apple to extract as much flavor as possible.

Let the syrup cool completely before transferring it to a clean, sterilized glass bottle.

Flavor notes

• Sweetness: light and clean
• Primary note: crisp apple (fresh, slightly honeyed)
• Secondary notes: subtle floral
• Overall profile: bright, comforting, and versatile

How to use apple simple syrup

• Drinks & cocktails: use it anywhere you’d normally add sugar or simple syrup. It works especially well in apple martini, as well as lemonades and sparkling water.
• Coffee & tea: stir it into hot or iced coffee, black tea, or chai for a gentle apple sweetness.
• Non-alcoholic drinks: add to soda water, iced tea, or juice blends to give them a light apple note.
• Breakfast foods: drizzle over pancakes, waffles, oatmeal, or yogurt instead of honey or maple syrup.
• Desserts: use as a sweetener for baked apples, fruit salads, or to brush onto cakes for moisture and flavor.
• Savory dishes: mix into salad dressings, sauces, or glazes for roasted vegetables to add subtle sweetness and depth.

Storage & shelf life

Refrigerate in a clean, sterilized glass bottle or jar. For the best flavor and freshness, try to use it within 2 weeks.

Apple simple syrup freezes very well. Pour it into a freezer-safe container or ice cube tray for easy portions. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a sealed bag or container. Frozen this way, it will keep for several months. Thaw in the refrigerator as needed and give it a quick stir before using.

Variations

• Spiced apple syrup: Simmer the apples with cinnamon, clove, star anise, or allspice for a cozy, autumn feel.
• Vanilla apple syrup: Add a split vanilla bean while the syrup steeps for a soft, rounded sweetness.
• Herbal apple: Combine with syrups like thyme, rosemary, or sage for a subtle savory note that works beautifully in drinks.
• Ginger apple: Fresh ginger adds gentle warmth and a little bite.
• Brown sugar or honey apple syrup: Swap some or all of the sugar for brown sugar or honey for deeper, caramel-like notes.

Frequently asked questions