How to Make Kaffir Lime Leaf Syrup for Cocktails

There is nothing more satisfying than making food and drinks from scratch. Here is how to make fresh kaffir (makrut) lime leaf syrup for delicious cocktails.

Are you stuck in a boring cocktail routine? Do you need to add some interest to your happy hour? Kaffir (makrut) lime leaf syrup is the answer!

If you haven't discovered this aromatic ingredient, now is the perfect time to try it. Kaffir lime leaf syrup offers intense citrus notes that really pack a punch and add depth to standard recipes. 

What is a Kaffir Lime?

First of all, what is a kaffir lime? Also known as the makrut lime, this lime is native to the southern parts of Asia. Generally, a kaffir lime leaf tree can grow well indoors and outdoors in warm locations. You can find more info on kaffir limes here.

How to Make Kaffir Lime Leaf Syrup

If you've never made simple syrup before, it really lives up to its name and is simple! While it's a no-brainer to add to cocktails, you can also replace the usual sugar you put in your iced tea with simple syrup, too. 

Ingredients:

4-5 kaffir  lime leaves, chopped finely

1/4 cup (60 grams) caster sugar

1/2 cup (125 ml) water

Cooking Instructions:

Place all of the ingredients in a small saucepan on a stovetop burner, and turn it on to medium heat. Heat until boiling, and then remove from heat. Pour it through a strainer into a glass jar. Let it cool, and then refrigerate. Best used before 10 days. 

Recipes

Now that you've made your kaffir lime leaf syrup, you're ready to experiment with some citrus cocktail recipes. Here's a couple of updated classics to get you started! 

Kaffir Lime Mojito

Is there anything more refreshing on a hot day than a mojito cocktail? Instead of using regular lime and simple syrup in the recipe, try swapping them out for kaffir lime leaf syrup. 

Ingredients:

2 oz. of white rum

4 oz. of club soda

1 oz. of kaffir lime juice

2 tsp of kaffir lime leaf syrup

A handful of mint leaves

A wedge of kaffir lime for garnish

Instructions:

Put the mint leaves in a glass, and muddle it to release the oils. Mix in the kaffir lime juice and kaffir lime leaf syrup. Top with the desired amount of ice, and then pour the white rum and club soda over top. Garnish with a kaffir lime wedge. 

Kaffir Lemon Leaf Whiskey Sour

Give this old-fashioned whiskey sour drink a modern update by adding kaffir lime leaf syrup instead of regular syrup. Or sub bourbon for whiskey for a variation that is perfect for summertime parties and outdoor BBQs. 

Ingredients:

1.5 oz. of whiskey 

1 oz. kaffir lime juice

0.5 oz. kaffir lime leaf syrup

Instructions:

Combine the whiskey, juice, and syrup in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake it up, and then strain it into a sour glass or tumbler. 

Ready to Add Some Zest to Your Cocktails?

It's no secret that fresh citrus can really add some oomph to alcohol. So if you want to go beyond the usual suspects of lemon, lime, and orange, try a kaffir  lime! It's easy to make kaffir lime leaf syrup to add to cocktails and other beverages. 

If you're in need of quality lime leaves, check our our fresh kaffir lime leaves here!