Jalapeño Simple Syrup

Jalapeño Simple Syrup is so easy to make and is great for spicing up cocktails! Just add equal parts of sugar to water, drop in some jalapeños, boil, and simmer!

Simple syrup, also referred to as “sugar syrup” is a staple in many cocktails. If you love spicy cocktails, then adding some heat to spice it up is a great option. Spicy and sweet, all in one! Simple syrup is just that, simple to make! If you can boil an egg, you can certainly boil up simple syrup! Just add equal parts of water to sugar, drop in some jalapeños, bring to a boil and simmer! That’s it!

Simple syrup is used in cold beverages because it is a liquid sweetener and blends more evenly in cold liquids. Using granulated sugar will leave that grainy, crystalized taste in your mouth. And when you are drinking a nice refreshing beverage, you don’t want to feel like you just drank a spoonful of sugar! 

Fun facts about the jalapeño

• The jalapeño was cultivated in Veracruz, the capital city of Mexico
• One of the most well-know chill peppers
• A mature jalapeño is about 2-4 inches in size
• It’s growing period is about 70-90 days
• One plant can produce up to 35 jalapeños
• They love the heat and sun, ideal heat is around 80-85 degrees F
• As the growing season ends, jalapeños typically turn red
• After they are harvested, they have a shelf life of 3-5 weeks if kept at 45.5 degrees F
• It comes in at 2,500 to 8,000 heat units on the scoville heat scale
• Jalapeños can be candied, dried, pickled, frozen and used in cocktails

What can I use jalapeño simple syrup for?

Looking to add some heat to your cocktail? Jalapeño simple syrup is a great way to spice it up! Jalapeños are relatively low on the scoville heat scale and provides a low-medium heat. When infused in simple syrup, it spices it up just enough to make things interesting.

Jalapeño simple syrup works well in both sweet and tart drinks. Thus the reason it is often used in margaritas and daiquiris. However, don’t be shy, try it in other drinks like whisky sours, fruity drinks, and mojitos too! It can make for one crazy, hot drink!

Storing the simple syrup

When storing, place in a tightly sealed container. I like to use a mason jar or a bottle with a removable top. Store in a cool spot, as it will help prolong the shelf life. When stored correctly, the shelf life can be up to 6 months. 

If the simple syrup starts to grow “cloudy” it is a sign that is has gone bad. Simple syrup should remain clear and colorless. In addition to becoming cloudy in appearance, a sign that bacteria may have started to grow, it may start to smell bad too. 

Jalapeño Simple Syrup-Ingredients

• 2-3 jalapeños (chili pepper)
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup granulated sugar

Instructions

• Wash and remove the stems from the jalapeños. Cut them in half lengthwise. For low-moderate heat, remove the seeds and membrane. For moderate-high heat, keep the seeds and membrane.
• In a small sauce pan, combine water and sugar. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Stir continuously until the sugar is completely clear. 
• Add the jalapeños and boil for an additional minute.
• Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, or until it begins to thicken. (you may see some color from the chillies seep into the liquid)
• Remove syrup from heat and let cool for 30-45 minutes.
• Remove the jalapeños and strain syrup into a mason jar or an airtight container. 
• Store in a cool place.

For great drinks that use simple syrup try:

Fresh Watermelon Rum Cocktail

Frozen Blueberry Daiquiri

Frozen Strawberry Daiquiri Shake

Simple Lemon Margarita

Spicy Paloma Cocktail (pictured)