I just made my first batch of simple syrup and I have a question. I used approx 4c of sugar to 2c of water and now that it has cooled, although still quite warm, it really solidifies. What happens when I put it in the frig and then go to use it? Do I just scoop out a tsp or do I warm it up in the micro first? Did I screw up somehow? I imagined that this would be syrupy not slushy type/solid. Any thoughts??

Normally, for simple syrup, you should have used equal amounts of water and sugar. Simply add 2 c of water, reheat slightly, and cool down again. Should be fine.

After adding the 2 cups of water, you might try adding just a little lemon juice (just a couple of drops, only).

oh, cause I thought it was 2parts sugar to 1 part water. I swear I read that somewhere.

I think you'll want to do more than "reheat slightly" after you add the other 2 cups of water. You should bring the mixture to a boil and then let it simmer. You'll need to stir the mixture to get the sugar to dissolve or the syrup will begin to harden again when you place it in the fridge. Hope that helps.

thanks everyone, I did add the water and brought to boil and let simmer for probably about 10 min. I let it cool and added it to an old lime juice bottle. the syrup is looking good this morning and pretty tasty. I will be trying it tonight with some mint julep.

mint julep.........how about a mojito

heck yeah, the mojito is one of my favorites.

the syrup turned out great and the mint julep turned out great. my first try with this drink and it's strong but damn good. Gotta watch the sweetness level of the drink and the use of the syrup but pretty tasty I must say and I will be buying some julep cups. Just for the record to anyone that may come across this thread in the future the syrup recipe IS equal parts as Flashman and others have said. Bring to boil and let simmer until it reduces to a nice golden color. I put mine in an old empty lime juice containter which works great. thanks to everyone who responded to this post and helping me find a great syrup and a great new drink. cheers

Simple syrup in a Julep? I....er...um, try this method my friend: Alton Brown: Good Eats Raising the Bar you'll find an alternative method at 07:00. Now, I don't have a muddler, but the end of a wooden spoon will do.

thanks jeff, good video. As for the julep, I like it my way and the syrup works good. If I would muddle the mint like that, I would get mint in my teeth. Looks like he made sort of a paste consistency. good vid though. cheers. I gonna have one right now as a matter of fact. good night cap. damn good drink.