Need a sweet kick without simple syrup? We’re here to rescue your cocktails and desserts! We’ve all been there—midway through a recipe only to find the simple syrup bottle is empty. Panic? No way!
Think honey, maple syrup, and agave nectar. They’re awesome substitutes. They’re sitting in our pantry, waiting to save the day. We’ll tell you how to use them effectively. Ever tried a splash of fruit juice? It’s a game-changer, trust us.
Let’s get creative. Let’s swap that syrup with something new. We’ll turn your drinks and treats into masterpieces.
Ready for a taste revolution? Let’s go!

6 Easy Substitutes for Simple Syrup
Here are six simple syrup substitutes to try next time you find yourself in a sticky situation.
1 – Honey
First, honey is thick and sticky. It’s great for cocktails. Honey adds floral sweetness, making it stand out. It’s sweeter than simple syrup. We use less honey, saving some calories. Sometimes, we warm it a bit for easy mixing.
A tiny amount goes far in recipes. Honey’s flavor depends on the flowers bees visit. For varied tastes, we pick different kinds. When curious, we recommend checking this link for honey substitutes. It could spark some ideas.
Comparisons to simple syrup show honey’s unrecognizable depth. It’s like nature’s own sweet magic.
2 – Maple Syrup
The flavor of maple syrup is like pure tree sap—earthy, rich, and deep. Maple syrup in cocktails brings its unique smoky-sweet touch. It blends wonderfully with bourbon and whiskey.
We love its slightly caramel taste; it makes drinks and desserts exceptional. Unlike honey, it’s thinner, so it mixes easily.
In recipes, use a bit more than simple syrup because it’s less sweet. For those interested in diving deeper, check out our maple syrup substitutes for a different twist. Remember, maple syrup adds that warm, comforting flavor.
3 – Agave Nectar
One of the stars in our sweetening arsenal is agave nectar. It’s got a smooth taste with a subtle hint of caramel. This makes it a fantastic choice for cocktails and desserts.
Agave nectar is sweeter than simple syrup. We don’t need much. Perfect for tequila-based drinks, it brings a unique flavor twist. Easy to mix, it’s thin and blends well.
Looking for alternatives? Check out our agave nectar substitutes. Agave nectar’s clean taste is a winner. Simple, effective, and tasty.
4 – Corn Syrup
The flavor of corn syrup is pretty neutral, so it won’t overpower other ingredients. It’s a bit like a superhero sidekick—reliable and ready for action. It’s thinner than honey and maple syrup, making it mix easily.
Corn syrup is perfect for baking because it adds moisture and prevents crystallization. It’s less sweet than agave nectar, so you might need to adjust your recipe a bit. Corn syrup keeps textures smooth, especially in candies and frostings.
For alternative ideas, check out these corn syrup substitutes.
5 – Coconut Sugar Simple Syrup
Coconut sugar simple syrup boasts a rich, molasses-like flavour. It’s great for adding a touch of natural sweetness. You get a caramel undertone that’s really distinct.
It’s less sweet than regular simple syrup, so we often use a bit more. It mixes well, despite being thicker.
Think about using it in your favourite cocktails or desserts. We love how it pairs with tropical flavours and whiskey alike. It brings a new depth to everything we create.
Just a heads-up: it has a darker color and a touch of coconut.
6 – Date Syrup
Last on our list, date syrup shines with its rich, dark, and sticky sweetness. We love how it brings a natural caramel-like depth.
It’s less sweet, so we often use more. It blends great in cocktails and adds a unique twist to desserts. Think creamy smoothies or our latest baking experiment.
It’s thicker, which makes mixing a challenge sometimes, but it’s worth it. Perfect for adding complexity.
Curious about other options? Check our date syrup substitutes for ideas. We stand by its distinct flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, honey can be a great substitute for simple syrup, adding a richer flavor. Just use a bit less since it’s sweeter than simple syrup.
Maple syrup has a distinct flavor, while simple syrup is neutral. If using maple syrup, be prepared for its signature taste to come through in your recipe.
Yes, agave nectar works well as a sweetener in drinks, offering a similar sweetness with a slightly different taste profile.
Yes, corn syrup can replace simple syrup, but it has a thicker texture and can add a subtle flavor difference.
To make coconut sugar simple syrup, dissolve equal parts coconut sugar and water over low heat, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved.

Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.