How to Make Simple Syrup

 Want to sweeten your lemonade or iced tea? Instead of reaching for the sugar bowl, you'll get a better result—no sandy granules at the bottom of the glass—if you mix up a batch of simple syrup. Here's how.

Step 1. Combine equal parts water and sugar in a saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring often, until the sugar has completely dissolved (3 to 5 minutes).

Step 2. Let it cool and then add to beverages as needed.

Use 1½ teaspoons of simple syrup for every teaspoon of sugar you would usually use and store the syrup in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. We told you it was simple!