Keep the sweet in cocktails: Don't swear off sugar

Cheat’s Simple Syrup

Most instructions for simple syrup call for equal parts sugar and water to be heated until the sugar dissolves and then allowed to cool. But what to do when a cocktail whim strikes and you don’t want bother with all that cooking and cooling? You cheat with this easy method: combine a tablespoon each sugar and cool water in a small jar. Tighten the lid, and then shake until the syrup is clear, with no remaining sugar granules. Refrigerate the leftovers for up to two weeks.

Bee’s Knees

“Speakeasy” (Ten Speed Press, 2010) gives this classic new life with a vanilla- and spice-infused honey syrup. You’ll likely have a lot of syrup left over; use it to sweeten tea or other beverages, or combine it with sparkling water for a sweet, nonalcoholic soda.

Makes 1 drink

2 ounces gin (Speakeasy recommends Cadenhead’s Old Raj)

1 ounce honey syrup (recipe follows)

3/4 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 lemon twist, for garnish

Pour the gin, syrup and juice in a mixing glass. Add large ice cubes and shake vigorously. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a lemon twist.

Per drink: 203 calories (none from fat), no fat, no cholesterol, 15 grams carbohydrates, trace protein, 3 milligrams sodium, trace dietary fiber.

Honey Syrup

Makes 1 quart

3 cups water

1 1/2 cups honey (Speakeasy recommends acacia)

Peel of 1 orange, removed in large strips

1 whole vanilla bean, scored and scraped

Combine all the ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat, bring to a boil, and let simmer for 5 minutes. Let cool, then strain into a food-safe quart container for storing. Fill a labeled squeeze bottle for easiest use. The syrup will keep for 7 days, refrigerated.

Per 1-ounce (2-tablespoon) serving of honey syrup: 49 calories (none from fat), no fat, no cholesterol, 13 grams carbohydrates, trace protein, 1 milligram sodium, no dietary fiber.

This story was originally published December 31, 2013 at 12:37 PM with the headline "Keep the sweet in cocktails: Don't swear off sugar."