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    4 Simple Syrups to Improve Any Cocktail

    By | Shine Food – Thu, Aug 9, 2012 12:23 PM EDT

    By Mary-Frances Heck, Bon Appetit

    Simple syrup is the easiest way to sweeten summer drinks, but it can also add an extra layer of flavor when infused with herbs or other aromatics. They need to be heated in order for the infusion to occur, but then just let them cool and chill. Simple.

    The Base: Bring equal parts sugar and water to a simmer; stir until sugar dissolves. To make honey syrup, replace sugar with an equal amount of honey. Syrups can be made up to six months ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

    The Infusion: Once the sugar is fully dissolved, add spices, herbs, or fruit (see our favorite above) and let steep, uncovered, until the flavor is infused. Strain, if desired, and transfer to a sealed container.

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    Photo by Zach DeSartPhoto by Zach DeSart



















    A cup of raspberries or strawberries gives a fruity kick.


    Photo by Zach DeSartPhoto by Zach DeSart



















    Pump up fresh Daiquiris with lemon-zest syrup.

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    Photo by Zach DeSartPhoto by Zach DeSart



















    Mint syrup makes for easy Mojitos and Juleps.


    Photo by Zach DeSartPhoto by Zach DeSart



















    Cinnamon works well in our Mezcal Smash.

    More from Bon Appétit:

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      My after-school snack was a sacred ritual. I sat on the carpet in my parents' bedroom at a low table, the television turned to "I Dream of Jeannie," and ate a peanut butter and honey sandwich cut into neat squares. I wasn't fussy about crusts. I just loved the sticky pairing of creamy peanut butter with syrupy golden sweetness drizzled from a honey bear in diagonals across the soft white bread. Nothing else--save for maybe apples and peanut butter in a pinch--could have made for as sweet an