Bar syrup and simple syrup are often used interchangeably in the cocktail world, but they are not exactly the same thing. While both are made from a combination of sugar and water, there are some differences in the preparation and usage of these two syrups.
Bar syrup, also known as bartenders' syrup or bar sugar, is a quick and easy way for bartenders to make a sweetener for cocktails. The ratio for bar syrup is typically 1:1, meaning equal parts sugar and water. To make bar syrup, you simply combine the sugar and water in a bottle and shake it until the sugar is completely dissolved. This syrup is often used in high-volume bars where speed and efficiency are crucial. It dissolves quickly in cold drinks and can be easily measured and poured.
On the other hand, simple syrup is a more versatile sweetener that can be used in a variety of culinary applications, not just cocktails. Simple syrup can be made with different ratios of sugar to water, depending on the desired sweetness and consistency. The most common ratios are 1:1 (equal parts sugar and water), 2:1 (two parts sugar to one part water), and 3:1 (three parts sugar to one part water). The higher the ratio of sugar to water, the thicker and sweeter the syrup will be.
To make simple syrup, you can follow the same method as bar syrup, combining the sugar and water in a bottle and shaking until dissolved. However, some people prefer to heat the mixture over low heat until the sugar is completely dissolved, which can help create a smoother texture. Heating the syrup also extends its shelf life, as it helps prevent the growth of bacteria.
Simple syrup is not only used in cocktails, but also in baking, coffee drinks, and other sweet recipes. It can be flavored with various ingredients like herbs, fruits, or spices to add an extra dimension of flavor. For example, you can infuse the syrup with mint leaves to make a mint-flavored syrup for mojitos, or add vanilla beans for a vanilla-infused syrup.
While bar syrup and simple syrup are both made from sugar and water, the main difference lies in their ratios and usage. Bar syrup is a quick and easy way for bartenders to sweeten cocktails, using a 1:1 ratio of sugar to water. Simple syrup, on the other hand, is a more versatile sweetener that can be used in a variety of culinary applications, with different ratios depending on the desired sweetness and consistency.