Homemade Lemon Simple Syrup for Cocktails, Teas, and More
Lemon simple syrup is a staple for anyone who loves adding brightness and a touch of sophistication to their beverages or desserts. With its perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, this syrup transforms everyday drinks like iced tea, lemonade, and cocktails into something truly special. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make at home with just a few ingredients and minimal effort.
Whether you use it in a sparkling spritzer, drizzle it over fresh fruit, or stir it into your favorite iced coffee, lemon syrup is one of those kitchen essentials that proves its worth time and time again. This recipe is the perfect base, and you can easily customize it by adding lemon zest for a more robust citrus note.
Ingredients
White Sugar
Adds sweetness and helps preserve the syrup, balancing the tartness of the lemon.
Filtered Water
Combines with sugar to create the smooth syrupy base for infusing the lemon flavor.
Fresh Lemon Juice
Provides a vibrant, tangy kick and the signature flavor of this refreshing syrup.
Lemon Zest (Optional)
Enhances the syrup with fragrant citrus oils and extra lemony brightness.
Directions
- Begin by juicing two to three large lemons to yield around half a cup of fresh lemon juice. For an added layer of lemony flavor, zest one of the lemons before juicing.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar and water. Stir occasionally as the mixture heats until the sugar is fully dissolved and the liquid turns clear.
- Remove the pan from heat. Slowly whisk in the fresh lemon juice or use lemon extract as a substitute if preferred. If you’re using zest, add it here for an extra punch of flavor.
- Allow the syrup to cool to room temperature. This helps the flavors meld while thickening the texture slightly.
- Once cooled, strain out the zest if used, and pour the syrup into a clean, airtight container or bottle.
- Store your lemon syrup in the refrigerator for up to three weeks.
Customize It Your Way
This lemon syrup recipe is a fantastic base for your own flavor experiments. Try infusing herbs or spices during the simmering stage for a unique twist:
- Lavender – Add a pinch of dried culinary lavender while the sugar is dissolving. It pairs beautifully with lemon for a floral, calming touch.
- Rosemary – A sprig of rosemary adds a savory depth, perfect for cocktails or roasted fruit glazes.
- Ginger – A few slices of fresh ginger make this syrup a bit spicy and warming, ideal for winter drinks or homemade sodas.
- Vanilla – Stir in a splash of vanilla extract at the end for a smooth, mellow contrast to the citrusy brightness.
Just be sure to strain any solids before storing the syrup.
Delicious Ways to Use Lemon Syrup
The real magic of lemon syrup is how versatile it is. Here are just a few creative and practical uses:
- Iced Tea and Lemonade – Sweeten and flavor your drinks at the same time without any gritty sugar at the bottom of the glass.
- Cocktails – Mix into classic drinks like whiskey sours, lemon drops, or mojitos for a zesty upgrade.
- Mocktails – Combine with sparkling water and muddled mint for a refreshing non-alcoholic option.
- Dessert Glazes – Brush over pound cake, scones, or muffins for a citrusy finish.
- Fruit Salad – Drizzle over fresh berries or melon to enhance natural sweetness and prevent browning.
- Frozen Treats – Use as a base for lemon popsicles or blend into sorbets.
Brighten Up Your Kitchen Naturally
Unlike many store-bought syrups and flavorings, this homemade lemon syrup is free of artificial ingredients and preservatives. You get pure, natural flavor with every drop—and the satisfaction of making it yourself. Plus, by using fresh lemon juice and optional zest, you’re also adding a dose of vitamin C and antioxidants to your sweet creations.
Another bonus? This syrup can easily be made in small batches, so you can whip some up fresh anytime you need it. It’s budget-friendly, fast, and a great way to avoid food waste if you have extra lemons lying around.
Your Turn!
Lemon simple syrup is one of those recipes that punches far above its weight. With only three basic ingredients and about 15 minutes of effort, you can create a vibrant, refreshing syrup that enhances everything from drinks to desserts. It’s a kitchen essential for the warmer months—or anytime you want a little taste of sunshine.
With its refreshing zing and customizable nature, this syrup deserves a place in your fridge year-round. Once you’ve made it once, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
I prefer to store my simple syrups in mason jars, and use lids like pour lids from Mason Jar Lifestyle. Alternatively, I also like to use these bottles which are aesthetic!
Check Out My Cookbook, Simple Syrups From Scratch!
Simple Syrups From Scratch—your go-to cookbook with 50+ simple syrup recipes. In the world of cooking and baking, simple syrups are a secret ingredient that can elevate your beverages and desserts with just a splash.
The main way I use simple syrups is in coffee, but there are so many other uses: Hot chocolate, Teas, Lemonades, Sparkling water or infused water, Cocktails or mocktails, Drizzle over pancakes or waffles, Add to overnight oats, Brush over cakes or cupcakes to add moisture or sweetness, Use syrups in frosting or glazes, Drizzle over ice cream or yogurt, Add to smoothies or milkshakes, Make salad dressings, Homemade popsicles and so much more!
Check Out My Cookbook, From Scratch!
I’m excited to share my cookbook with you, created with sustainability and flavor in mind! From Scratch is packed with delicious, eco-conscious recipes designed to nourish both you and the planet. Every dish is carefully crafted to use fresh, local ingredients, and focuses on minimizing waste while maximizing taste.
From wholesome breakfasts to hearty dinners, my cookbook offers a variety of plant-based meals that are easy to prepare and full of nutrients. Whether you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint or simply enjoy meals that are better for you and the Earth, this cookbook is your guide to eating in a way that’s both kind to the planet and satisfying to your taste buds. You can grab your copy here:
Check Out The Pantry Labels
In 2024, I released a set of Pantry Labels with recipes that are dishwasher-safe and fit the lids of mason jars perfectly.
Each labels has the recipe to refill the dry mix jar, as well as the recipe to make the item if applicable.
Lemon Simple Syrup
Ingredients
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 cup filtered water
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice or 1 tbsp lemon extract
Instructions
- Begin by juicing two to three large lemons to yield around half a cup of fresh lemon juice. For an added layer of lemony flavor, zest one of the lemons before juicing.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar and water. Stir occasionally as the mixture heats until the sugar is fully dissolved and the liquid turns clear.
- Remove the pan from heat. Slowly whisk in the fresh lemon juice or use lemon extract as a substitute if preferred. If you’re using zest, add it here for an extra punch of flavor.
- Allow the syrup to cool to room temperature. This helps the flavors meld while thickening the texture slightly.
- Once cooled, strain out the zest if used, and pour the syrup into a clean, airtight container or bottle.
- Store your lemon syrup in the refrigerator for up to three weeks.
