Classic Cocktails & Drinks With A Funky Twist

Demerara Syrup

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Updated: 06/16/21

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy
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This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy

Demerara syrup is a rich syrup made from demerara sugar and the perfect way to spruce up your favorite cocktails. It is easy to make at home and only takes five minutes. With a rich flavor of caramel and molasses, Demerara Syrup is an indulgent and delicious addition to cocktails and baking.

Jar of homemade Demerara Syrup with spoon coming out of jar

While you may be most familiar with Simple Syrup, this Demerara syrup will take your cocktail to the next level. If you can’t find Demerara sugar (found and specialty grocery stores or Amazon), you can substitute Turbinado sugar. One of the best parts of making syrups at home is how easy and simple they are as well as how long they will last in your pantry. They can be used in hundreds of different recipes and are not filled with any extra additives or preservatives.

What is Demerara Syrup

Demerara syrup is a rich syrup made from demerara sugar, a sugar that originates in South America. It can be used in baking, coffee, or cocktails to add some sweetness and flavor. Try it in the Old Fashioned or Hot Buttered Rum Recipe.

jar of homemade Demerara Syrup with box of Demerara sugar in the background

How to make Demerara Syrup

  1. Combine the water and the sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat.  
  2. Bring to a boil and simmer, stirring, until the sugar has completely dissolved and the syrup has thickened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat and cool completely.
  4. Use in all your cocktails and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one month.

Demerara Sugar vs Turbinado sugar

If you can’t find Demerara sugar (found at Whole Foods, specialty grocery stores, or Amazon), you can substitute Turbinado sugar. Here is the difference between the two:

  • Demerara Sugar has a larger course grain and a richer flavor with notes of molasses and toffee. It is also slightly sticky similar to that of brown sugar.
  • Turbinado Sugar has a finer texture with a lighter caramel flavor.
jar of homemade Demerara Syrup
Jar of homemade Demerara Syrup with spoon coming out of jar
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Demerara Syrup

(tap # to scale)
Prep: 2 minutes
Cook: 5 minutes
Total: 7 minutes
Demerara syrup is a rich syrup that is the perfect way to spruce up your cocktail. With a rich flavor of caramel and molasses, Demerara Syrup is easy to make at home and only takes five minutes.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Demerara sugar or Turbinado sugar
  • 1 cup water

Instructions

  • Combine the water and the sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat.  Bring to a boil and simmer, stirring, until the sugar has completely dissolved and the syrup has thickened, about 5 minutes.
  • Cool completely.
  • Use in all your cocktails and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one month.
Course: Drinks
Jar of homemade Demerara Syrup with spoon coming out of jar

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Demerara Syrup

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Nathan Longley has been his wife’s personal bar tender for as long as he can remember. While he most often enjoys a cold beer, he is known to love our vodka gimlet.

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