Candy Cane Simple Syrup

A mint-flavored simple syrup made with leftover holiday candy canes. Use it as a topping for ice cream, or as a cocktail mixer.

Watch this CHOW Tip for more creative ideas on how to use up leftover candy canes.

• 8 candy canes
• 1 cup water
• 2 cups granulated sugar

1. 1In a plastic bag, break up the candy canes into small pieces.
2. 2Add the candy canes to a saucepan with the water and sugar and stir over medium heat. While stirring, simmer for a few minutes, then turn off the heat and let the syrup cool.
3. 3Pour the syrup through a fine-mesh strainer to filter out any remaining pieces of candy, then store in an airtight jar. Use it in cocktails, hot drinks, or on top of ice cream.