This thyme syrup is a wonderful herb-infused sweetener that adds a savory, aromatic note to cocktails and mocktails. It’s especially well-suited for winter drinks and holiday recipes.
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About this Thyme Syrup
Thyme is one of those herbs I reach for constantly, and somehow it still doesn’t get the love it deserves in drinks. I love how thyme tastes savory and earthy, with a subtle freshness that feels cozy and bright at the same time.
When you turn it into a simple syrup, it adds an unexpected layer of flavor that instantly makes cocktails feel more thoughtful and interesting. It’s one of my favorite ways to bring depth and personality to otherwise simple drinks, especially if you’re bored with the usual sweet syrups.
Thyme simple syrup is made by infusing fresh thyme sprigs into a basic sugar and water mixture. The result is sweet with earthy, herbal flavor that pairs well with citrus, cranberry and spirits like vodka or bourbon.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Subtle herbal flavor. Thyme adds lovely depth of flavor without overpowering drinks.
- Versatile sweetener. This syrup works in cocktails, mocktails and more non-alcoholic drinks.
- Quick to make. The entire process takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish.
Ingredients & substitutions
This recipe uses just three ingredients. Fresh thyme sprigs bring a woodsy, slightly floral flavor that infuses gently into the syrup. Granulated sugar provides clean sweetness without competing flavors, while water forms the base that carries the thyme’s aroma and taste.
For a twist on this flavored simple syrup, try using a different base herb. You can make rosemary or sage variations for winter cocktails and mocktails. Or, for something lighter and more summery, try using basil.
Another simple twist comes from using another kind of sugar. Honey or brown sugar can be used instead.
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Equipment
You don’t need anything fancy to make thyme syrup. A medium saucepan is used to heat the sugar, water and thyme together without boiling. A spoon or heat-safe spatula * helps stir the mixture as the sugar dissolves.
Once the syrup has infused, a fine mesh strainer * makes it easy to remove the thyme sprigs and a mason jar is ideal for storing the finished syrup once it has cooled.
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How to make Thyme Syrup
Making homemade thyme syrup is easy to do!
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine thyme, sugar, water. Stir until sugar has dissolved, about 5 minutes. Do not let boil.
- Remove from heat. Let rest for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Discard the thyme or leave in longer for a stronger flavor. Let cool completely. Store in a mason jar for up to 2 weeks.
Serving suggestions
Thyme syrup works well in both drinks and food pairings. Here are a few easy ways to use it:
- Cocktails: Use thyme syrup in place of simple syrup in drinks like a cranberry mule or cranberry martini.
- Mocktails: Stir it into lemonade, sparkling water with citrus (an Italian soda) or cranberry juice for a seasonal non-alcoholic option.
- Food pairings: Drizzle a small amount over fruit-based desserts, like poached pears with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
FAQs
This recipe is written for fresh thyme, which provides a cleaner and more aromatic flavor than dried herbs. Dried thyme may be used but may affect the color of the syrup.
Yes, it works well in sparkling water, lemonades and herbal mocktails.
More fresh herb recipes
Thyme Syrup
ingredients
- 1 small bunch fresh thyme
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
instructions
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine thyme, sugar and water. Stir until sugar has dissolved, about 5 minutes. Do not let boil.1 small bunch fresh thyme, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 cup water
- Remove from heat. Let rest for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Discard the thyme, or leave in longer for a stronger flavor.
- Let cool completely. Store in a mason jar for up to 2 weeks.
notes
- Just before dropping it into your syrup infusion, hold the fresh thyme in one palm and clap your other hand on top of it a few times — what bartenders call “spanking” it (yes, laugh!). This releases essential oils and fragrances from the leaves for a more aromatic syrup.
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