Demerara Syrup
A rich sugar syrup made from demerara sugar, known for its deep caramel flavour and molasses notes. Adds sweetness, body, and warmth to cocktails.
Quick Facts
Flavour Profile
Primary Flavours
Tasting Notes
Deep caramel sweetness with light molasses bitterness and a rich, rounded mouthfeel. Less sharp than white sugar syrup.
Recommended Brands
Budget Choice
Bristol Syrup Co. No.3 Demerara Syrup
Premium Choice
Jack Rudy Cocktail Co. Demerara Syrup
Storage & Handling
Store syrup refrigerated in a sealed container. Shake before use if separation occurs.
Shelf Life
2–4 weeks refrigerated (Longer for 2:1 syrups)
Demerara Syrup
A rich sugar syrup made from demerara sugar, known for its deep caramel flavour and molasses notes. Adds sweetness, body, and warmth to cocktails.
Pro Tip
If a drink tastes thin, swap simple syrup for demerara before increasing sugar.
Usage
Used as a sweetening mixer where added depth and richness are desired. Common in spirit-forward and stirred cocktails as an alternative to simple syrup.
Top Tips
- Dissolve fully — demerara sugar needs more heat than white sugar.
- Use 1:1 for balance or 2:1 for richer texture.
- Use 1:1 for balance or 2:1 for richer texture.
Possible Substitutions
- Simple syrup (lighter, less complex)
- Muscovado syrup (darker, more intense)
- Brown sugar syrup (similar but softer)
Production Method
Produced by dissolving demerara sugar in water (typically 1:1 or 2:1) using gentle heat until fully dissolved, then cooled and bottled.
History & Context
Demerara sugar originates from Guyana and has long been valued for its depth and character. Demerara syrup became a staple in classic cocktails where bartenders sought richer sweetness than simple syrup could provide.