Vanilla syrup is a versatile and delightful sweetener that can elevate your morning coffee, tea, or desserts with its rich and aromatic flavor. Homemade vanilla syrup is incredibly easy to make and uses just a few simple ingredients, allowing you to skip the preservatives and enjoy a fresher, more natural alternative. Perfect for gifting or keeping on hand in your pantry, this syrup adds a touch of sweetness and a warm vanilla essence to any recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract (or 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped)
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar has completely dissolved.
- Simmer: If using a vanilla bean, add the split bean and its seeds to the saucepan. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes to infuse the vanilla flavor.
- Add Vanilla Extract (if not using a bean): Remove the syrup from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Cool: Allow the syrup to cool to room temperature. If you used a vanilla bean, remove it before transferring the syrup.
- Store: Pour the cooled syrup into a clean, airtight bottle or jar. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
Tips:
- For a more intense vanilla flavor, let the vanilla bean steep in the syrup overnight in the refrigerator before removing it.
- Use the syrup in lattes, iced coffee, cocktails, or as a drizzle over pancakes and waffles.
