Simple syrup is one of the most classic cocktail ingredients. Even though simple syrup is extremely basic and true to its name, simple, it is also incredibly versatile and can be used in so many ways other than just for cocktails and coffee drinks. I became fascinated with simple syrup thanks to Karin Campion, the founder of Sonoma Syrup. Her company grew out of her experiments developing high quality handcrafted simple syrups infused with ingredients from her garden in Sonoma.
I use Sonoma Syrup simple syrups because they come in a wide variety of flavors making them more suitable for recipes and because unlike homemade simple syrup, they don’t require refrigeration and last a very long time, even though they don't include any artificial preservatives, colors or flavors. After Karen shared her products with me, I discovered that in addition to using simple syrup in cocktails, and in hot and cold beverages, it could also be used in cooking.
While I rarely see recipes using it, I reach for simple syrup often to add a hint of sweetness to vinaigrettes and marinades and to round out any harsh acidity or saltiness in sauces. It adds flavor but also provides the smooth texture I prefer over white or brown sugar. Sonoma Syrup infused simple syrup provides an additional layer of flavor and can often be used in place of sugar, honey or maple syrup. I’ve even adapted an easy and no-oil added recipe for granola using it.
Ways to use flavored simple syrups
* Pour on sweet potatoes before or after cooking
* Combine with fruit and yogurt to make popsicles
* Use in place of sugar to make glazed nuts (1 cup nuts, 2 Tablespoons simple syrup)
* Blend with butter to spread on biscuits
* Add to fruit salads
* Mix into cream cheese and spread on banana bread or pumpkin bread
* Add to water when poaching fruit
* Freeze with water in ice cube trays and use to chill drinks
* Drizzle over plain yogurt, waffles, pancakes or hot cereal
No Oil Added Granola Recipe
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups old fashioned rolled oats
1/4 cup chopped nuts, such as pecans, walnuts or almonds
1/4 cup pumpkin or sunflower seeds, or a combination of both
1/4 cup Sonoma Syrup vanilla syrup (or try another flavor)
pinch of salt
1/4 cup chopped dried fruit, optional
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Combine the oats, nuts, seeds, syrup and salt in a bowl and mix with a spoon or flexible spatula. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and evenly distribute the mixture on top.
Bake for 10 minutes or until golden, stir 1/2 way through the baking. Add dried fruit if desired and store in an airtight container.
Enjoy!
Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post. My thanks to Sonoma Syrup Co. for partnering with me.
