Jalapeno Simple Syrup

Spice up your drinks with this enticing jalapeno simple syrup. Crafted to elevate your go-to drinks, like the zesty virgin margarita or the intriguing non-alcoholic vodka dirty martini, this syrup adds a thrilling twist to your glass.

Whipping up this homemade syrup couldn't be easier but the best part is that it's a long lasting elixir, ready to enhance your drinks for weeks on end.

If you've been craving that captivating blend of sweet and savory, this homemade jalapeño syrup is your answer. Since solid sugar doesn't blend as easily in beverages and may have a gritty texture, I knew there was a need for a homemade simple syrup with a little bit of heat.

Like our rosemary simple syrup, this sweetener has a savory flavor thats perfect for balancing out sugary drinks like this Non-Alcoholic Bloody Mary Mocktail or this Non-Alcoholic Gin and Tonic.

While it is a star in beverages like a virgin strawberry margarita, this easy syrup is not limited to just mocktails. You can drizzle it over instant pot chicken wings or other spicy food for a unique glaze. Consider adding this jalapeño salt as well.

Why you'll love this spicy syrup

• It elevates a variety of non-alcoholic drinks and spicy cocktails with an irresistible blend of sweetness and heat. 
• With three simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can have this long lasting syrup ready in no time.
• You can customize the level of spiciness to your liking.
• It's made with fresh jalapeños for a vibrant, authentic flavor.

The ingredients

It's incredibly straightforward. This delightful, sweet and spicy flavor arises from just three simple ingredients...

• Water - Tap water will do just fine, no need for distilled or anything fancy.
• Sugar - Granulated white sugar works best for this recipe but coconut sugar, brown sugar, or raw sugar will do.
• Fresh Jalapeño - Fresh jalapeño results in a better, fresher flavor but you can use canned jalapeno slices for convenience.

Can I use different peppers?

Yes! If you're looking for something other than jalapeno peppers, feel free to experiment with serrano peppers or habanero peppers to achieve your desired level of heat.

How to make jalapeño simple syrup

Step 1: Measure and mix

Add equal parts water and part sugar to a pan and whisk until the sugar dissolves.

Step 2: Add the heat

Add the sliced jalapeño peppers to the pan.

Step 3: Boil

On medium-high heat, bring the mixture to a boil and then remove from heat. Let steep for 25 minutes.

Step 4: Strain and store

Use a fine mesh sieve to strain out the jalapeño slices then store in a glass bottle, mason jar, or airtight container.

Pro tip: When cutting and handling jalapeños, avoid touching your face and eyes as it can cause irritation.

Can I adjust the spiciness of the syrup?

Yes, you can adjust the heat level. The longer you let the jalapeños steep, the spicier the syrup will become. If you're not a fan of spicy flavors, the easiest way to make this liquid sweetener less spicy is by reducing the steeping time. You can also adjust the spiciness by simply using more, or less jalapeños.

How do you store simple

Storing - You can store this syrup at room temperature in a sealed, glass bottle for one to two weeks.

Refrigerating - Although simple syrup does not need to be refrigerated, it will last longer if stored in the fridge.

What is the shelf life of this syrup?

You can keep infused blends for 1-2 weeks at room temperature or up to one month in the refrigerator. Once it starts to get cloudy or discolored, it is no longer good.

More Simple Syrups

• This Raspberry Simple Syrup is the perfect sweetener for fun summer drinks.
• If you're someone who likes floral notes, try this Rose Simple Syrup in your next tea or latte.
• Not only does this Blueberry Simple Syrup have such a fun color, it also tastes great drizzles between cake layers or on waffles.
• Made with fresh or frozen blackberries, this Blackberry Simple Syrup is perfect for matcha or pouring over ice cream.
• You can never go wrong with the classic Strawberry Simple Syrup.
• When I have leftover peaches, I like to make this Peach Simple Syrup.
• Orange Simple Syrup works great in holiday recipes.

Recipes to try jalapeño syrup in

• Non-Alcoholic Mimosa Mocktail could use a little extra kick!
• Cranberry Mocktail is a fun twist on the classic cocktail
• This simple syrup would add add the perfect balance of spice to a Succulent baby shower cucumber lime mocktail
• If you're looking to spice up a Prosecco Drink, add a little bit of this rich simple syrup.
• The fruity flavors in this Grapefruit Mocktail would pair perfectly with this jalapeno syrup.

This post was originally published in 2019 but has since been updated with more helpful information in September 2023.