Sugar Syrup

Directions

1. 1
   Combine the sugar and water in a 2-quart, heavy-bottomed saucepan and stir thoroughly.
2. 2
   Bring the mixture to a light simmer over medium-high heat to dissolve the sugar.
3. 3
   Do not bring to a rolling boil.
4. 4
   Immediately remove the mixture from the heat and set aside to cool completely.
5. 5
   Label, date, and refrigerate in an airtight container.
6. 6
   Variations
7. 7
   You can flavor this syrup with liqueurs of your choice, using 1 to 2 tablespoons per 1/2 cup of syrup.
8. 8
   For alcohol-free variations, cook the syrup with up to 2 tablespoons of orange, lemon, or lime zest.