I've seen so many postings about simple syrup. What exactly is it and when do you use it? Thank you!

Simple Syrup is equal parts sugar and water, boiled until the sugar dissolves. You let it cool, then brush it on your cake layers to make them moist. You can also add extracts and flavors to taste. HTH.

So, do you do this often???

When I do cakes from scratch, it's a requirement! (for me at least)

My scratch cakes are so dry without it, you could clean concrete with a slice!

I like to try different flavors with the SS. Vanilla is universal, though. It works with any cake flavor!

--Knox--

you can also put it in a spray bottle and spray it on your cake.

But when you make simple syrup make sure you add a couple of slices of lemon.

The acid in the lemon keep the sugar from crystalizing, plus it adds a nice flavor too!

I always use simple syrup to keep the cake moist. Nobody really like crumby and dry cake. yes, flavored once are great! Unless you're stacking cakes, I'd recommend using simple syrup.

If you're in a hurry. I'd 2 parts sugar, 1 part water. boil it until sugar melts then add 1 part ice to cool it down sooner.
Put it in a spray bottle or just brush it on the cake. I always keep them in my refrigerator.

)

OR you can also use TORANI Italian Syrups...
they come in many flavors.. That is what I always use..
But I spray mine, not brush.. I find that the syrup is dstributed better spraying.

I always use simple syrup when baking cakes from scratch. Gives you a couple of days to do your fondant and decorations without completely drying out the cake. I just make it up in advance and leave it in the refrigerator. I use a squeeze bottle though so the spray bottle idea has got me interested!