Inspired by old-fashioned bay rum cologne, we decided to infuse simple syrup with bay leaves, then mix it with dark rum and soda. It’s equally fantastic stirred into a Dark ‘n’ Stormy.

  • Yield: 2 cups
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Total: 25 mins 
  • Active: 10 mins 

Ingredients (4)

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 5 fresh bay leaves
  • 3 dried bay leaves

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
  2. When mixture boils, reduce heat to medium low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until sugar is completely dissolved. Remove pan from heat and let steep for 15 minutes.
  3. Strain bay leaf syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Refrigerate until cold and store covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.