Definition:

A general name referring to a mixture of sugar and water. This combination of sugar and water is the foundation of many candy recipes, including hard candies like lollipops and soft candies like caramels and fudges. In general, sugar and water are combined in a saucepan to form the sugar syrup. The mixture is stirred until the sugar dissolves, and then is left to boil until it reaches a specific temperature.

The hotter the sugar syrup, the harder the resulting candy will be. Thus, soft candies are cooked to lower temperatures than hard candies. Temperature is determined by using a candy thermometer or the cold-water method.

Also Known As: Simple Syrup