Simple syrup is an important ingredient in many cocktails and beverages. It’s a mixture of equal parts sugar and water that is heated and stirred until the sugar dissolves completely. Simple syrup helps sweeten drinks in a more controlled way than just adding granulated sugar which can clump, and it incorporates easily into cold beverages. One popular brand of simple syrup is Master of Mixes.
What is Master of Mixes simple syrup?
Master of Mixes is a brand that makes various cocktail mixers and ingredients, including simple syrup. Their simple syrup product comes in a few varieties:
- Original simple syrup
- Rich simple syrup (2:1 ratio of sugar to water)
- Agave nectar simple syrup
- Vanilla simple syrup
- Cinnamon simple syrup
The original Master of Mixes simple syrup contains just sugar and water. The rich simple syrup contains twice as much sugar dissolved into the water resulting in a thicker, sweeter syrup. The flavored versions contain additional ingredients to provide different flavors.
Does simple syrup need to be refrigerated?
In general, refrigeration is recommended for simple syrups to inhibit microbial growth and prevent spoilage. Since simple syrup contains sugar and water, it can be prone to mold, fermentation, and bacterial contamination if left unrefrigerated, especially in humid environments.
Refrigeration helps simple syrup last longer – generally up to a month when stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Room temperature simple syrup may only last 1-2 weeks before spoiling.
Does Master of Mixes need refrigeration?
Specifically for Master of Mixes brand of simple syrup, refrigeration after opening is recommended by the manufacturer. While the syrup is shelf-stable before opening, keeping it refrigerated after opening will maintain quality and prevent spoilage.
The product packaging states to refrigerate after opening, and specifies that the refrigerated shelf life is up to 6 months. This shelf life is longer than typical for simple syrup because Master of Mixes uses a preservation system to help extend the fridge stability.
Signs that simple syrup has spoiled
Here are some signs that your opened simple syrup has gone bad and should be discarded:
- Appearance changes – crystallization, separating, cloudiness, visible mold
- Off smells – fermented odors, sourness, alcohol smell
- Off tastes – sour, bitter, moldy, yeasty, fermented
- Fizzing, bubbling or pressure building up in the bottle
- Changed texture and consistency
If your simple syrup exhibits any of these signs of spoilage, it is best to throw it out. Do not consume spoiled simple syrup.
Benefits of refrigerating simple syrup
Refrigerating simple syrup, including Master of Mixes brand, provides these advantages:
- Inhibits microbial growth – The cold temperature of refrigeration slows down mold, yeast, and bacteria growth that could spoil the syrup.
- Extends shelf life – Proper refrigeration after opening can prolong the shelf life of simple syrup from weeks to months.
- Maintains quality and taste – Refrigeration preserves the flavor and prevents changes in taste, texture, smell and appearance.
- Enhances viscosity – Chilled temperature makes simple syrup thicker and provides better mouthfeel.
Proper storage for maximizing fridge shelf life
To get the most extended refrigerated shelf life out of Master of Mixes simple syrup (or any simple syrup):
- Store in a tightly sealed, airtight container to minimize air exposure and prevent moisture loss.
- Keep refrigerated at 40°F or below at all times after opening.
- Keep the syrup bottle clean when removing syrup to avoid introducing bacteria.
- Use clean and dry utensils and containers when handling to prevent contamination.
- Do not store for extended periods at room temperature after opening.
Can you store simple syrup at room temperature?
It is not recommended to leave simple syrup, including Master of Mixes, at room temperature storage long-term after opening. While the sugars help prevent microbial growth compared to other ingredients, syrup can still degrade and spoil at room temperature. It is generally better to err on the side of refrigeration.
However, short-term room temperature storage can be okay if the syrup is handled properly. Here are some guidelines for temporary room temp storage:
- Use clean containers and utensils when removing syrup.
- Keep air exposure to a minimum.
- Do not return contaminated syrup back into the original container.
- Consume opened syrup within 1-2 weeks.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and heat.
- Check regularly for any signs of mold or fermentation.
Signs simple syrup should be refrigerated
Here are some signs that simple syrup should be moved to refrigerated storage:
- Syrup has been stored open at room temperature for over 1-2 weeks.
- Potassium sorbate or other preservative is not listed in the ingredients.
- Changes in appearance, smell or taste are noticed.
- Syrup will not be used up quickly.
- Environment is hot or humid, which increases spoilage risk.
How to use Master of Mixes simple syrup
Master of Mixes simple syrup can be used in a variety of beverages. The original simple syrup works well in many cocktails, lemonade, iced tea, and coffee drinks.
The flavored versions like vanilla, cinnamon, and agave nectar syrups add sweetness plus extra flavor. Use them to enhance desserts, oatmeal, shakes, marinades, and more.
When mixing with simple syrup, start with small amounts and adjust to reach desired sweetness. You can always add more but you can’t take it out. The rich simple syrup will provide more sweetness with less volume.
Here are some tips for using Master of Mixes (or any brand) simple syrup:
- Shake or stir into cold beverages and cocktails.
- Sweeten tea, lemonade, juices, milkshakes and smoothies.
- Use in dessert sauces, yogurt parfaits and oatmeal.
- Mix into coffee and espresso drinks like lattes and macchiatos.
- Drizzle over waffles, pancakes, French toast and desserts.
- Brush over cakes and fruits.
- Add to vinaigrettes and salad dressings.
Simple syrup substitutions
In a pinch, simple syrup can be substituted with other sweeteners:
| Substitution | Ratio |
|---|---|
| White sugar | 1:1 ratio |
| Brown sugar | 1:1 ratio |
| Honey | 3/4:1 ratio (Use less honey) |
| Maple syrup | 2:3 ratio (Use less maple syrup) |
| Agave nectar | 1:1 ratio |
When using granulated sugar instead of simple syrup, be sure to stir vigorously to dissolve and incorporate the sugar fully into cold drinks. Other liquid sweeteners like honey or maple syrup can be swapped in at adjusted ratios since they have more intense sweetness than simple syrup.
How long does Master of Mixes last after opening?
The shelf life of Master of Mixes simple syrup after opening depends on storage conditions:
- Refrigerated: Lasts up to 6 months refrigerated.
- Room temperature: Lasts up to 1-2 weeks at room temperature.
For maximum shelf life, Master of Mixes simple syrup should be stored in the refrigerator after opening. The cool temperature helps slow the growth of bacteria and mold. An unopened bottle stored at room temperature will last up to 2 years.
Signs your opened simple syrup has expired
Watch for these signs that opened Master of Mixes simple syrup has gone bad and should be tossed:
- Appearance changes – crystallized, separate layers, cloudy, foamy, presence of mold
- Off odors – vinegar-like, fermented, sour, rotten
- Changed texture – thick, syrupy, slimy
- Off flavors – sour, bitter, rancid, sharp
- Fizzing or bubbling in the bottle
A simple smell or taste test can quickly confirm if your syrup has spoiled. When in doubt, throw it out and start fresh.
FAQ
Can you freeze simple syrup?
Yes, simple syrup can be frozen for long-term storage. Freeze syrup in an airtight container, leaving some headspace to allow for expansion. Thaw in the refrigerator before using. Syrup may separate after thawing but can be re-mixed.
Can you make simple syrup without heat?
It is possible but more difficult to make simple syrup without heating it. The heat helps the sugar dissolve and incorporate into the water more quickly. Without heat, you would need to stir vigorously for several minutes to dissolve the sugar at room temperature.
How long does rich simple syrup last compared to regular simple syrup?
Rich simple syrup made with a 2:1 ratio of sugar to water will generally last a bit longer than regular 1:1 simple syrup. The higher sugar concentration helps inhibit microbial growth. Refrigerated, rich simple syrup may last up to 8 months compared to 6 months for regular simple syrup.
What’s the difference between simple syrup and sugar water?
Simple syrup and sugar water are very similar – both are mixtures of sugar and water. However, simple syrup uses equal portions of sugar and water heated together until fully dissolved. Sugar water is often made by just combining sugar and water without heating, which means the sugar may not dissolve completely.
Conclusion
In summary, it is recommended to refrigerate Master of Mixes simple syrup after opening to extend its shelf life and quality. Keeping it refrigerated inhibits microbial growth, maintains flavor and texture, and prevents spoilage. Store opened syrup in the fridge in a tightly sealed container and use within 6 months for best results. While short-term room temperature storage is okay, refrigeration is best for long-term storage.
Simple syrup is an versatile ingredient in drinks and desserts. Master of Mixes offers original and flavored simple syrups to sweeten and enhance beverages, food dishes, and more. When crafted and stored properly, simple syrup can last for months refrigerated or up to a couple weeks room temperature. Keep an eye out for any signs of spoilage and don’t consume syrup that smells or appears off.
