Jalapeño simple syrup is one staple I always have in the fridge. A small amount adds the perfect amount of flavor and subtle sweetness to cocktails and mocktails, iced coffees and even fruit.

Finally! A full write-up dedicated to simple syrup, which it most certainly deserves. If you know me, you know that I ALWAYS have a jar or two of simple syrup in my refrigerator.

It’s my favorite way to make a homemade cocktail shine or give my afternoon iced coffee a little more pizazz when I’m having a rough day.

Homemade simple syrup is also a great way to use up herbs that are past prime (looking at you basil, mint and rosemary).

Jalapeño simple syrup specifically adds such a fabulous flavor note. It’s just a hint spicy with very subtle sweetness, and it dissolves in drinks seamlessly.

Here’s what you need to make it!

Ingredients

sugar
water
jalapeño

Yep, that’s it. Can it get any easier? You can buy simple syrup in a bottle at the store or you can make it at home in 10 minutes. Plus you’ll be able to customize the flavor profile!

How to Make Jalapeño Simple Syrup

Making simple syrup from scratch is as “simple” (lol) as heating sugar and water in a saucepan until the sugar is dissolved. Then you just add the jalapeño slices (or ingredient of choice) and let stand until cool.

Some people like leaving the jalapeños right in the jar and they become candied. This is perfectly acceptable! I prefer to strain them out so my syrup is completely pure and I don’t have to worry about a stray seed in my drinks later.

To do so, use a fine mesh strainer over a jar.

Once completely cooled, you can store the simple syrup in a jar in the refrigerator for up to 30 days. I love that it lasts for so long because it’s easy to just use a splash here and there when the mood strikes.

This recipe also doesn’t make a boat load, so you should have no problem using it up in that time frame. Especially if you’re shaking up cocktails for dinner guests at some point.

Ideas for Using Jalapeño Simple Syrup:

Pineapple Cilantro Margaritas
Palomas
Iced Coffee (I use Califia Farms cold brew + half and half + about a teaspoon of the syrup)
Gift it! I tie a bow around the rim and pair it with some flowers and a card. It’s such a fun and unique item to receive.

jalapeño on a wooden cutting board with jar

I would love to hear about the most interesting simple syrups you’ve either made or tried in a cocktail so leave me a comment and let me know. It’s such a fun way to jazz up your drinks!