Meghan Y., Author at Cake 'n Knife

Demerara Simple Syrup

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON August 28, 2023 // Leave a Comment

It’s time to discover the art of crafting and using demerara syrup in cocktails. Learning how to make this rich and complex sweetener will immediately elevate your mixology game. This syrup can also be used in mocktails, coffee drinks, and more!

about this demerara syrup

Welcome to the world of demerara syrup, where sweetness meets complexity in the realm of mixology.

If you are looking to elevate your cocktails, this is the easiest way to go about it. Demerara syrup is a staple ingredient in many classic and contemporary cocktails. With its origins in unrefined demerara sugar, this syrup offers a depth of flavor that takes your drinks to new heights. Whether you’re a seasoned bartender or a home mixologist, understanding and mastering rich demerara syrup can take your cocktail game to the next level.

In the following sections, we’ll explore what demerara syrup is, how to make it, and why it’s a must-have in your cocktail arsenal. Get ready to unlock a world of enhanced taste and craftsmanship in your favorite libations.

Here’s just a few reasons why you should try demerara syrup:

Rich flavor – Demerara sugar offers a natural molasses flavor from the sugarcane, giving it a rich and complex flavor profile.
Versatile – You can use this syrup in a wide range of cocktails from classic to modern creations. It pairs really well with dark spirits, but it is also a lovely compliment for lighter syrups and non-alcoholic drinks.
Balanced – The sweetness of this type of sugar has just the right balance to sweeten your drinks without overwhelming them with sugar.

ingredients

demerara sugar. This golden-brown sugar has a unique flavor of caramel and molasses, giving this syrup a lovely taste that will elevate any drink you use it in.

water. Use whatever water you like to drink! Tap water, filtered water, etc. If your tap water has a mineral taste to it, I recommend using filtered water and you are not bringing the mixture to a boil and there may be lingering residual flavor in the syrup.

what is demerara sugar?

Demerara sugar is minimally processed, which is why it has its characteristic golden-brown color. This is also why the grains of sugar are so large and crunchy. The lack of processing helps preserve a deep and rich flavor in the sugar.

Originally, demerara sugar orignated in the British colony of Demerara, hence the name! That colony is now know as Guyana.

Photo of a variety of sugar types on a plate

this recipe’s must haves

All you need to make this recipe is a saucepan and a wooden spoon!

To store, a classic mason jar is always a good idea. You can also use an airtight plastic container, but glass usually holds up best for syrups and is an easy way to use them.

here’s how to make demerara syrup

cook

Add sugar and water to a small saucepan over medium heat. Do not bring the mixture to a boil. Stir as the mixture cooks until the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat immediately.

cool

Cool completely before using in cocktails, drinks, etc. Store in a glass jar or airtight container and seal tightly.

tips and ideas

do not boil. Do not bring the mixture to a boil as this will cause the sugar to start to crystalize. Avoid boiling and it will come out smooth.

need a substitute? The best substitute for demerara sugar is turbinado or raw sugar. Turbinado sugar has notes of caramel as well, it’s just a little bit lighter and doesn’t have the notes of molasses that demerara has. Next best substitute would be raw sugar or light brown sugar.

More delicious simple syrup recipes to try: Basil Simple Syrup | Strawberry Rhubarb Simple Syrup | Lemon Simple Syrup | Strawberry Simple Syrup | Rosemary Simple Syrup

Pouring liquid sweetener into a cocktail shaker

does demerara syrup need to be refrigerated?

Yes, demerara simple syrup needs to be stored in the refrigerator. I like to store it in syrup bottles like the one pictured here or in mason jars. Always be sure to label the jar so you can remember when it was made.

how long does demerara syrup last?

If refrigerated in an airtight container, this syrup will last for up to 1 month.

what does demerara syrup taste like?

This recipe has a lovely caramel flavor to the sugary syrup. I love the depth of flavor that it brings to cocktails and drinks in comparison to regular simple syrup. It’s ideal for pairing with whiskey and rum drinks, but it also can bring added flavor to your morning cup of coffee!

where can I find demerara sugar?

You can sometimes find demerara sugar at the local grocery store, but the ones near my house do not happen to carry it. If you are having trouble tracking it down locally, you can easily order it for less than $5 online (here is the demerara sugar I use) for a large bag.

can simple syrup be frozen?

It certainly can! If you don’t think you’ll use up the syrup within one month, add it to ice cube trays. Freeze and store in an airtight bag or container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Need more inspiration for a sweet treat? Check out my dessert recipes page!

how to use demerara simple syrup

Demerara syrup is a caramel-flavored syrup that can be used in everything from cocktails to mocktails to coffee drinks and more. You can use it anywhere you would use plain simple syrup! Here are some of our favorite ways to use this syrup:

Add to rum cocktails like a classic daiquiri or mojito. This raspberry daiquiri is a fun fruity twist on the classic cocktail.

Swap out regular simple syrup for demerara in you favorite whiskey cocktails like an old fashioned or manhattan.

Incorporate into coffee drinks like lattes, mochas, and cappucinos.

Use to sweet iced tea or lemonade.

Drizzle it on pancakes or waffles in lieu of maple syrup.

demerara syrup flavors

If you enjoy this syrup, there are endless ways to change up the flavors. Below are some suggestions of how to add additional flavor to the syrup. Note that these ingredients should be added to the pan when you are simmering the sugar and water. Let the syrup cool, then strain out the ingredients when transferring them to the storage container.

vanilla. Slice a vanilla bean pod open and add to the saucepan. You can also use our vanilla simple syrup recipe to make it with vanilla extract!

cinnamon. Use two small cinnamon stick (or one large).

ginger. Peel and slice a 1-inch piece of ginger.

Sweetener in a bottle with cocktail tools

how to store

Store. Cool and store in an airtight container or bottle in the refrigerator for up to one month. I like to label mine with a piece of tape and a marker to know when the expiration date is.

Freeze. You can freeze simple syrup in ice cub trays to save for later us! They will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. I recommend freezing them in cubes and once frozen, moving to a freezer-safe bag. Remove as many as you’d like and thaw in a bowl or bottle in the refrigerator.

Thaw. Thaw individual cubes of simple syrup in a bowl or bottle in the refrigerator.

more tasty simple syrup recipes

For a lovely floral option, this lavender simple syrup is perfect for cocktails and even using with tea or lemonade.

If you love cinnamon, this cinnamon simple syrup is your new favorite recipe.

Fresh and fruity cherry simple syrup is made with fresh cherries!

Honey simple syrup has a lovely note of honeyed flavor that ideal for teas, coffees, and desserts.

Finally, if you make this demerara syrup recipe, please be sure to give this recipe a rating and/or leave a comment! I love to hear when you all make recipes, and I do take the time to respond to every single comment.

Feel free to drop questions below too, if you have them!

Oh and be sure to tag me on Instagram if you make the recipe! I love being able to see these recipes come to life in your homes – it’s my favorite thing to look through those photos. It really means the world to me!

Demerara Simple Syrup

With notes of caramel, this syrup is fantastic to use in place of regular simple syrup.

5 from 1 vote

Print Pin

Prep Time: 5

Cook Time: 10

Total Time: 15

Servings: 1 cup

equipment

ingredients

1 cup demerara sugar
1 cup water

instructions

Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat.
Stir over heat until the sugar completely dissolves. Do not bring the water to a boil!
Cool and store in an airtight glass jar in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.

video

nutrition

Calories: 798kcal

Cuisine: American

Category: Booze

Turkish Bread (Bazlama)

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON August 25, 2023 // Leave a Comment

Turkish Bread (also known as Bazlama) is fluffy, soft, and flavorful. There’s no mixers invoved and the recipe comes together in just one bowl! It’s ideal to pair with hummus, tabouli, to make wraps, and more!

about this Turkish bread

Making homemade Turkish bread, or balzama, is well worth the labor. It’s one of those recipes that makes you want to roll up your sleeves and get to cooking right away. First and foremost, the taste of this homemade flatbread is incomparable. The soft texture, the fresh herbs, the warmth of a fresh piece melting in your mouth with every bite… If you are ready to skip to the recipe at this point, I don’t know what will convince you to make it!

Not to mention that making your own Turkish flatbread means you can enjoy it fresh and warm whenever you desire. It’s a cost-effective alternative to store-bought options, and you can whip up a batch in no time. You can easily impress both your guests and yourself with your skills when you whip up a batch of this flatbread.

ingredients

water. You will need to use warm water for this recipe. Make sure the water is between 105˚F and 110˚F. I recommend using a thermometer to make sure you have the correct temperature. If the water is too hot or too cold, the yeast will not be properly activated.

yeast. Active dried yeast is what I use for this recipe. Make sure that it is not expired.

sugar. All you need is granulated sugar for this recipe.

yogurt. I use full-fat Greek plain yogurt. You can also use low-fat Greek plain yogurt, if you prefer.

oil. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for this recipe.

salt. You will need fine kosher salt to make the bread.

flour. All you need is all-purpose flour to make this recipe.

parsley. Fresh parsley is best for this recipe! You will want a little extra to sprinkle on top once the flatbreads are finished cooking.

za’atar. This seasoning mix is a classic Middle Eastern blend used to season vegetables, meats, and even seafood. Technically you could skip this seasoning, but I love the flavor that it brings to the bread.

this recipe’s must haves

To make the dough, you will need one medium-large bowl from a set of mixing bowls. You will also need measuring spoons and measuring cups for the ingredients.

For mixing together ingredients, I like to use a whisk, a wooden spoon, and my hands for this recipe.

You will need a rolling pin (my preference is for a marble rolling pin) to roll out the dough. Finally, you will need a nonstick skillet or cast iron skillet to cook the flatbreads.

here’s how to make Turkish bread

activate yeast

To activate the yeast, combine yeast, sugar, and water in a medium-large bowl. Stir well to combine.

Set aside in a warm place for about 5 to 10 minutes. You will know the yeast has been activated when the mixture is foamy and bubbly.

Whisk in Greek yogurt, olive oil, and salt until combined.

make dough

Add flour, parsley, and za’atar and stir to start to combine. I recommend using your hands to help the dough come together. Once the flour is completely incorporated, turn out onto a floured surface. Knead for about 3 to 4 minutes until the dough is smooth.

Making turkish bread into dough balls on a plate

divide dough

Divide the dough into 10 balls, getting them as close to the same size as possible. Place on a plate dusted with flour and sprinkle the tops lightly with more flour. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let sit for 15 minutes.

roll out

Place a medium skillet over medium-low heat. I personally like to use a nonstick skillet, but you could also use cast iron. While the pan gets hot, roll out the dough into rounds, about 6 to 7 inches in diameter. Brush the top lightly with oil.

cook

Place the flatbread in the hot pan, oil side down. Brush the other side with oil lightly. Allow the bread to cook for about 1 to 1 1/2 minutes. The top should be covered with bubbles and the bottom should be golden around the edges and in spots across the center.

Flip and cook for another 1 to 1 1/2 minutes, until browned on the other side. Repeat rolling, brushing with oil, and cooking with the rest of the dough balls.

Serve warm!

tips and ideas

make them thick or thin! You have control of the thickness of this recipe! I personally like mine closer to the thickness of naan, so I roll mine out to be about 6 to 7 inches in diameter. You can roll it out small or bigger to be thicker or thinner, depending on your preference. Note that the cooking time will need to be increased or decreased depending on if the dough is thicker or thinner.

test the temperature of the water. Do not just use warm water and hope that it is warm enough. Be sure to test the temperature with a thermometer to make sure it is between 105˚F to 110˚F. You want the water to be warm, but not so hot that it burns.

More tasty bread recipes to try: Harvest Pumpkin Seed Bread | No Yeast White Bread | Overnight No Knead Bread | Bacon Parmesan Quick Bread

what is Turkish bread called?

Turkish bread is also known as “pide” or “bazlama”. Pide is a different type of Turkish flatbread from this particular recipe as it is usually in a boat-like shape. Usually these bread boats are topped with various ingredients and then baked. This particular recipe is closer to bazlama, which is a round, fluffy bread cooked on a skillet. It has a soft texture and can be really thick. This version is a variation that is closer to naan or pita in thickness.

does Turkish bread have gluten?

Yes, there is gluten in Turkish bread. This recipe uses all-purpose flour, which is made from wheat and therefore contains gluten. The gluten is essential to the makeup of the bread as it gives the bread its structure and texture.

what’s the difference between Turkish bread and pita bread?

Pita bread and Turkish bread are similar, but they are not the same. Pita bread, a recipe common in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, is a round flatbread that puffs up and is known for its pocket. Turkish bread, also known as “bazlama”, has a few variations. It can be different shapes and textures, with a flavor all its own.

my bread is greasy, what did I do wrong?

Make sure that you brush the flatbread dough lightly with oil. If you use too much oil, this will result in a greasy flatbread.

Need more inspiration for appetizers? Check out my appetizer recipes page!

Easy flatbread and greek hummus and fresh parsley

what to serve with Turkish bread

My favorite way to eat Turkish bread is with a big bowl of greek hummus! The fluffy bread is the ideal vehicle for dipping and scooping the thick and flavorful hummus.

You can serve this bread with your favorite dips like baba ganoush but they also work well to use to make your favorite wraps. Use them to make Greek beef pitas or greek gyro lamb wraps!

Here are some more ideas for how to use this flavorful bread:

Make flatbread pizza! Add toppings and bake for 5 minutes at 450˚F.

Turn them into breakfast wraps by filling them with eggs, bacon or sausage, and cheese.

Use in place of bread for your favorite sandwich.

Spread it with peanut butter and drizzle with honey for an easy snack the whole family will love.

Add it to a meze platter with tabbouleh, falafel, and dolmas. The soft texture is a lovely accompaniment for these various Mediterranean dishes.

Use it as bread for soup! The chewy texture is fantastic for soaking up flavorful broths.

Serve with shawarma or kebab to make sandwiches, complete with grilled meat, vegetables, and your choice of sauces.

how to store

Store. Cool to room temperature. Store in a resealable bag at room temperature for up to 3 to 4 days. You can enjoy them at room temperature or reheat them.

Reheat. Wrap flatbreads in damp paper towels and heat in the microwave for about 15 seconds, or until warm. You can also reheat them on the stove in a skillet with a little bit of oil over medium heat.

Freeze. Cook the flatbreads as instructed. Cool to room temperature and layer between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container or resealable bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Thaw. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature. Reheat or bring to room temperature.

more delicious global recipes to explore

Korean ground turkey lettuce wraps are a simple and tasty light lunch or appetizer.

Ready in just 25 minutes, these Greek beef pitas have all the flavor of a gyro, with a twist!

Spicy Instant Pot Ramen with crispy pork is the ultimate comfort food.

Finally, if you make this Turkish bread recipe, please be sure to give this recipe a rating and/or leave a comment! I love to hear when you all make recipes, and I do take the time to respond to every single comment.

Feel free to drop questions below too, if you have them!

Turkish Bread (Bazlama)

Fluffy, soft, and flavorful, this bread is perfect for pairing with hummus, tabouli, and more.

5 from 45 votes

Print Pin

Prep Time: 15

Cook Time: 25

Additional Time: 25

Total Time: 1 5

Servings: 10 flatbreads