In a method of synthesizing a silicoaluminophosphate molecular sieve, a synthesis mixture is prepared by combining a source of phosphorus and at least one organic directing agent; and then introducing a source of aluminum into the combination of the phosphorus source and organic directing agent, wherein the temperature of the combination is less than or equal to 50° C. when addition of the source of aluminum begins. After addition of a source of silicon, the synthesis mixture is heated to a crystallization temperature of between about 100° C. and about 300° C. and the molecular sieve is recovered.