Kiss that Starbucks addiction goodbye. With this Brown Sugar Simple Syrup, you'll be making barista-worthy beverages in your very own kitchen in no time. It's a delicious way to take your morning cup of coffee, afternoon tea, or favorite evening cocktail to the next level in only a few simple steps!
Brown Sugar Simple Syrup works just the same as a classic simple syrup, only it's made with brown sugar instead of white sugar, which gives it a deep, rich flavor profile similar to that of molasses, caramel, and even toffee (if you add salt, that is). It's the perfect way to elevate hot or iced drinks!
Made from only a few, simple ingredients, this recipe comes together crazy fast and lasts well over a month. It's an all-around great thing to have on hand and will save you tons of money by bringing the coffee shop to your house. It's equally delicious in coffee and tea (especially chai!) and we even use this syrup in our Pumpkin Mousse!
We can't forget the cocktails! This syrup would be great with the amaretto in an Italian Margarita or add a splash to our Rum Hot Toddy for an extra bit of richness and sweetness. The possibilities with this thing are literally endless and the effort is so minimal. It's a win-win combination!
HOW TO MAKE BROWN SUGAR SIMPLE SYRUP
Simple syrups typically use a one-to-one ratio of sugar to water, and this recipe is no different! You'll add light or dark brown sugar and the water to a small saucepan and place it over medium-high heat.
If you'd like to add salt to enhance the flavor of your Brown Sugar Simple Syrup, now is the time to do it! All you need is a tiny pinch.
Stir occasionally, and watch closely. As soon as your brown sugar fully dissolves and the water starts to boil, remove it from the heat and let it cool. You can add in the vanilla extract at any point during the cooling process.
This recipe makes about 1 ½ cups of Brown Sugar Simple Syrup. You'll likely only use 1 to 2 tablespoons per drink depending on how sweet you like your beverages. That means you could easily make a dozen or more drinks from this one batch of simple syrup!
I like to keep my syrup stored in a small glass jar equipped with a pour spout, but you could also use a mason jar if you prefer. Once the simple syrup has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to your container of choice and store it in your refrigerator for up to three months!
ABOUT THE INGREDIENTS
Brown Sugar | Brown sugar is granulated sugar with the addition of molasses. The difference between light brown sugar and dark brown sugar is just how much molasses is added in.
Dark brown sugar in your Brown Sugar Simple Syrup will make for a slightly richer syrup, with a bit more intensity to it.
Water | For pure, unadulterated brown sugar flavor, try using filtered water instead of tap water. Filtered water removes contaminants, but leaves in the minerals that make water taste good. This is certainly a bit on the "extra" side, and if you've got no qualms with water out of the faucet, pour on.
Vanilla | Another way of enhancing the flavor of your Brown Sugar Simple Syrup is to add vanilla extract. Just like with your favorite baked goods, vanilla extract is great for adding deep, complex flavors to every sweet thing it touches!
Take care not to add the vanilla to your syrup until after the syrup comes off the stovetop! Vanilla, similar to alcohol, will evaporate when heated. To not waste it, you don't want to add it until you are no longer cooking over direct, high heat settings.
Salt (optional) | Never underestimate the good salt can do in the presence of sugar. Salt enhances all the flavors; especially the sweet ones!
It may seem strange to think about salt being in drinks, but if you look at the ingredient label of commercially sold beverage syrups, you will most definitely find salt on the list of ingredients. Add a pinch to your brown sugar simple syrup just once, and you'll never go back again!
MORE BROWN SUGAR GOODNESS
- Gingerbread Cookies
- Soft Ginger Molasses Cookies
- Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
- Apple Cinnamon Bread
- German Chocolate Cake
- Praline Cake
German Chocolate Cake
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Praline Cake
Soft Gingerbread Cookies
Soft Ginger Molasses Cookies
Whether it's coffee or cocktails, this Brown Sugar Simple Syrup recipe is such a game-changer when it comes to making drinks at home!
- 1 cup light or dark brown sugar sugar, lightly packed
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt (optional)
-
Add sugar, water, and salt (if using) to a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally.
-
Remove from the heat as soon as the sugar is dissolved, add the vanilla, stir, and set aside to cool completely.
-
Transfer to a jar, seal it and keep refrigerated for up to three months.
Sources: Watercare.com