Two jars of basil simple syrup with fresh basil leaves surrounding them.

You’ll love this recipe because:

It’s versatile. Basil simple syrup can be used in a wide range of beverages and desserts, from cocktails and iced teas to fruit salads and sorbets, adding a fresh, herbal twist to your favorite recipes.
It’s easy to make. With just three simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a batch of this flavorful syrup in no time.
It’s perfect for summer. Basil simple syrup is the ideal ingredient for summer, adding a cool, herbal note to your favorite warm-weather beverages and desserts. Plus, it uses up all of that extra basil in your garden you don’t know what to do with!

Ingredients

Ingredient Notes

Fresh Basil Leaves – Look for bright green, unblemished leaves with a strong, fresh aroma.
Sugar – Standard granulated sugar works best for a clear syrup. Using other sugars or sweeteners will change the color and flavor of the simple syrup.

Pick the basil leaves just before making the syrup to ensure maximum freshness and aroma. Avoid using wilted or bruised leaves, as they can impart a bitter taste to your syrup.

Step-by-Step instructions

It’s so easy to make basil simple syrup at home and it will truly take your drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic) to the next level. It’s also great for serving alongside fresh fruit in the summer. The below photos with matching steps are not meant to be the full recipe, but are there to help you see the recipe made at various stages so you can make it perfectly every single time.

For the ingredient list with measurements, full instructions, printable recipe, and additional notes, please scroll down to the recipe card.

An overhead view of water, granulated sugar and basil leaves in a white saucepan to make basil simple syrup.

Combine the water, basil and granulated sugar in a saucepan. A white saucepan with basil simple syrup in it.

Bring the mixture to a boil and cook until the granulated sugar has dissolves. Remove from the heat and let the simple syrup infuse for 30 minutes, until cooled to room temperature. A saucepan pouring fresh basil leaves and simply syrup into a wire mesh sieve to strain out the basil leaves.

A saucepan pouring fresh basil leaves and simply syrup into a wire mesh sieve to strain out the basil leaves.

Pour the simple syrup through a fine-mesh sieve. Fresh basil leaves being pressed down into a wire mesh sieve to strain it from simple syrup.

Use a spatula to fresh the basil into the sieve to extract as much flavor as possible. Wilted basil being strained from a simple syrup with a mesh wire sieve over a bowl of simple syrup.

Wilted basil being strained from a simple syrup with a mesh wire sieve over a bowl of simple syrup.

Discard the basil leaves. A glass bowl of basil simple syrup on a table with a green linen napkin and fresh basil leaves.

Use the basil simple syrup or refrigerate in a glass jar until ready to use.

expert tips

Experiment with different types of basil, like lemon basil or Thai basil, for unique flavor variations.
You can also add other herbs or spices, such as mint or ginger, to create your own signature syrup.
This is a great way to use up fresh basil from the garden in the summer. If you want to enjoy basil simple syrup all year long, you can easily freeze it to use later when basil is no longer in season!

Storage instructions

Storage: After straining your basil simple syrup, transfer it into a clean, airtight glass bottle or jar. Store the basil simple syrup in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Always check for any signs of spoilage, such as off smells or mold, before using.
Freezer Option: If you want to store the syrup for a longer period, consider freezing it. Pour the syrup into an ice cube tray and freeze. Once frozen, transfer the syrup cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen basil simple syrup can last for up to six months. When ready to use, simply thaw the desired amount in the refrigerator.

How to use basil simple syrup

Cocktails: Add a splash to your mojitos, margaritas, or gin and tonics for a fresh twist.
Iced Tea and Lemonade: Sweeten your iced tea or lemonade with a hint of basil for a refreshing summer drink.
Desserts: Drizzle over fresh fruit, yogurt, or even ice cream for a delightful herbal sweetness.
Salads: Use it as a base for a light and sweet vinaigrette dressing