Simple syrup and sugar cubes can both be used to sweeten drinks, but they are not always directly interchangeable. There are a few key differences to consider when deciding whether to substitute simple syrup for sugar cubes:
Sugar Content
The main consideration when substituting sweeteners is equalizing the sugar content. Simple syrup is a liquid sweetener made from equal parts sugar and water. The sugar fully dissolves, resulting in a syrup that is thinner than pure sugar. Sugar cubes are solid pieces of compressed pure cane sugar.
To equalize:
- 1 sugar cube (around 4 grams of sugar) is equivalent to 1 teaspoon (4 grams) of simple syrup
- 2 sugar cubes (around 8 grams of sugar) is equivalent to 1 tablespoon (12 grams) of simple syrup
When substituting syrup for cubes, you’ll need less syrup by volume to achieve the same level of sweetness. The opposite is true when substituting cubes for syrup – you’ll need more cubes to match the sugar content.
Speed of Dissolving
A key difference between granulated sugar and simple syrup is dissolving speed. Sugar cubes take longer to fully integrate into a drink than simple syrup, which is already dissolved.
When muddling sugar cubes or using them in shaken drinks, they’ll fully dissolve by the time the drink is prepared. However, in drinks that aren’t shaken or muddled, like an Old Fashioned, sugar cubes can take much longer to dissolve. Simple syrup integrates into the drink immediately.
Mouthfeel and Texture
Simple syrup has a smooth, silky texture and consistency. Sugar cubes add a gritty, sandy texture as they dissolve in the drink. Some drinks rely on the granulated texture of undissolved sugar as part of the experience, like the classic Old Fashioned.
Flavor
Simple syrup and sugar cubes taste slightly different, though both add sweetness:
- Simple syrup has a neutral flavor that doesn’t significantly alter other ingredients.
- Sugar cubes lend a hint of vanilla flavor from their manufacturing process.
In most cocktails, the flavor difference is negligible. But drinks that highlight certain syrups or liqueurs may be thrown off balance by swapping sugar cube for simple syrup, or vice versa. Simple syrup is the safer neutral option when flavor is a concern.
Convenience
Simple syrup offers more convenience compared to measuring out sugar cubes:
- Bartenders don’t have to stop to add multiple cubes.
- Syrup can be pumped directly into the glass from a bottle.
- Portioning is easier since syrup is already liquid.
- There’s less mess without solid sugar cubes.
However, some traditional cocktail recipes specifically call for sugar cubes as part of the ritual of preparing the drink. Sugar cubes can also be easier for home bartenders who don’t keep simple syrup on hand.
Shelf Life
Simple syrup has a shorter shelf life than granulated sugar cubes. Kept refrigerated, simple syrup lasts 1-2 months. Sugar cubes can last over a year stored in a cool, dry place.
For high volume cocktail bars, the shorter shelf life of syrup means going through product more quickly. At home, syrup may spoil before finishing the bottle unless cocktails are consumed frequently.
Sweetness Intensity
Some bartenders believe sugar cubes result in a less intense sweetness compared to simple syrup. Granulated sugar releases sweetness more slowly as the cubes dissolve. Simple syrup’s thinner liquid form may deliver a more concentrated hit of sweetness upfront.
The perceived difference is minor and subjective. But some bartenders factor in sweetness intensity when deciding between cubes versus syrup.
Dilution
One cube of sugar contains no water, while simple syrup is 50% water. In drinks without other ingredients to dilute the alcohol, simple syrup adds more dilution compared to a sugar cube.
In most cocktails, the amount of dilution from syrup is insignificant. But drinks consisting only of spirit and sweetener, like an Old Fashioned, gain more dilution from syrup.
Cost
Sugar is cheaper than simple syrup. Granulated sugar can be bought in bulk quantities at low cost per ounce. Simple syrup is more costly to purchase pre-made, though only slightly more expensive to make from scratch.
For bars, the labor cost to batch simple syrup in-house must be factored in. Sugar cubes avoid the added effort of syrup production.
Visibility
Sugar cubes are more visible than syrup in clear drinks. The allure of watching a sugar cube slowly dissolve is part of the experience of some cocktails.
Simple syrup doesn’t provide the same visual interest. But it also doesn’t leave undissolved particulate matter that could be unappealing in the finished drink.
Conclusion
Simple syrup and sugar cubes can be substituted for one another using an equivalent sugar ratio. But they aren’t always interchangeable depending on factors like mouthfeel, convenience, shelf life, and flavor.
Simple syrup is easier to portion precisely and integrates faster into drinks, making it preferable for many bartenders. Sugar cubes offer more authenticity in traditional recipes and avoid the dilution and shorter shelf life of syrups.
Consider the individual cocktail and your specific needs when deciding between simple syrup and sugar cubes. Side by side taste testing can help determine if one sweetener clearly changes the drinking experience compared to the other.
With the right considerations around texture, convenience, and flavor, simple syrup can be substituted for sugar cubes in many cocktails. But traditional sugar cube drinks like the Old Fashioned would suffer with the swap. Ultimately the best sweetener comes down to personal preference and the style of drink being created.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between simple syrup and sugar cubes?
Simple syrup is a liquid sweetener made from dissolved granulated sugar and water. Sugar cubes are compressed solid pieces of pure cane sugar. Simple syrup mixes instantly into drinks, while cubes take time to dissolve.
Is one sweeter than the other?
No, they contain the same sugar so have equal sweetness. The ratio of 1 cube to 1 teaspoon of syrup provides equivalent sugar content.
Can you always substitute simple syrup for sugar cubes?
No, in some cocktails the sugar cube is integral to the experience, like an Old Fashioned. The gradual dissolving of the cube matters. Simple syrup doesn’t provide the same texture.
Which is better in cocktails?
It depends on the specific drink. Simple syrup offers more precision and faster dissolving. But sugar cubes provide authenticity in historical recipes. There is no universally better option.
Does simple syrup change the flavor?
Mostly no, simple syrup has a neutral taste compared to sugar cubes. But in some cocktails, the hint of vanilla from cubes may be preferred. Simple syrup avoids any flavor alterations.
Is one sweeter upfront than the other?
Some perceive simple syrup as intensifying sweetness faster since it dissolves quickly. Sugar cubes may release sweetness more gradually. But the overall sweetness level is the same.
Which has a longer shelf life?
Sugar cubes last over a year stored properly. Simple syrup only lasts 1-2 months refrigerated before spoiling. Sugar cubes avoid the shelf life issues.
Which is easier to use at home?
Sugar cubes avoid having to batch simple syrup. But for frequent cocktail making, premixed syrup saves measuring time. It’s personal preference based on convenience and frequency of use.
Should I follow recipe directions exactly?
Yes, the recipe was formulated with either cubes or syrup specifically in mind. Substituting risks altering the flavor, texture, or appearance unless sugar content is equalized.
| Sweetener | Simple Syrup | Sugar Cubes |
|---|---|---|
| Form | Liquid | Solid |
| Dissolving speed | Instant dissolution | Gradual dissolution |
| Shelf life | 1-2 months refrigerated | Over 1 year stored properly |
| Flavor impact | Neutral | Hint of vanilla |
Substitution Ratio
When substituting simple syrup for sugar cubes or vice versa, use this equivalent sugar ratio:
- 1 sugar cube = 1 teaspoon simple syrup
- 2 sugar cubes = 1 tablespoon simple syrup
This 1:1 cube to teaspoon ratio equalizes the sweetening power between the two options.
Try This Substitution:
Make an Old Fashioned using simple syrup instead of the traditional sugar cube:
- Add 2 oz bourbon and 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters to a mixing glass with ice.
- Stir in 1⁄2 ounce (1 tablespoon) simple syrup.
- Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish with an orange twist.
The 1⁄2 ounce syrup equals the sweetness of two sugar cubes. Enjoy the convenience of syrup while still crafting a properly balanced Old Fashioned!
Additional Reading
For more information on substituting or choosing between simple syrup and sugar cubes, check out these helpful bartender resources:
- Simple Syrup Versus Sugar Cubes from The Spruce Eats
- Sugar Cubes vs Simple Syrup from Webstaurant Store
- Simple Syrup Vs. Sugar Cubes from Cocktail Chemistry Lab
These provide more direct comparison and tips for deciding when to use each sweetening option.
