Boil

Basil Simple Syrup

May 27, 2022
5
2 Ratings
Photo by Julia Gartland
  • Prep time 35 minutes
  • makes 1 ½ cups
What You'll Need
Ingredients
  • 1 cup granulated white sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
Directions
  1. Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan and heat over medium, whisking constantly until the sugar dissolves. Once the syrup comes to a simmer, turn off the heat.
  2. Add fresh basil leaves and gently press them down into the syrup with a fork until they’re fully submerged. Let the basil infuse for 30 minutes. Strain the syrup over a fine-mesh sieve to separate the leaves; press the leaves against the strainer to extract all the syrup.
  3. Cool completely before using. If not using immediately, transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to one month.

See what other Food52ers are saying.

  • taxi42
    taxi42
  • LB White
    LB White
  • Russ Harvey
    Russ Harvey

4 Reviews

taxi42 June 24, 2023
A friend of mine shared a drink recipe which called for "Infused Basil". Who knew I could just make it? It was super easy and delicious. It completed the drink fantastically. Here's that drink recipe as well: Basil simple syrup, Gin (Hendrix or Bombay Sapphire as they have added infusions) and Elder Flower Tonic. Over Ice.
 
Russ H. June 24, 2023
Excellent idea. We always have elderflower tonic around, since we throw all our strawberry hulls in a jar of vodka all summer, a wonderful pink infusion, and the two mix very well. Waste not, want not.
 
LB W. June 12, 2022
Try this syrup on strawberries or peaches - amazing!
 
Russ H. May 28, 2022
I make this anytime I have a large amount of basil ->this<- close to going bad. I've found it can last much longer than a month, if you're careful. Also, one word:

Gimlet.