This homemade Easy Vanilla Syrup recipe is a must for coffee lovers! It’s so simple to make and requires only 3 ingredients.
It also works perfectly in hot drinks, lattes, or even drizzled over desserts for an extra hint of flavour.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Only 3 ingredients: Made with pantry staples you probably already have at home.
- Better than store-bought: Fresh, flavourful and customizable with no preservatives or artificial ingredients.
Ingredients and substitutions
- White sugar – You can swap with raw cane sugar, coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like monk fruit or stevia (note: flavour and sweetness level may vary).
- Water – No substitute needed here, just regular filtered or tap water works fine.
- Vanilla extract – Use pure vanilla extract for best flavour. In a pinch, you can use vanilla bean paste or even scrape a real vanilla bean for a more intense gourmet taste.
How to make
Step 1: Make sugar syrup.
In a mason jar, add sugar and boiled water and mix until sugar is dissolved.
Step 2: Add vanilla.
Stir in the vanilla extract and mix.
Step 3: Let it cool.
Let it rest for 30 minutes then transfer to a pump.
Step 4: Use and enjoy.
Ready to use and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
This syrup is super easy to customize. Here are some simple ways to adjust the flavour.
- Use pure vanilla extract: It gives the best depth of flavour. Artificial extract will work, but the taste won’t be as rich.
- Make it stronger: Add an extra ½ teaspoon of vanilla if you like a bolder flavour.
- Try vanilla bean: For a gourmet touch, simmer a split vanilla bean with the sugar and water, then remove it before storing.
- Use brown sugar: Swap white sugar for light brown sugar to create a deeper, caramel-like flavour.
- Add a pinch of salt: It helps balance the sweetness and enhances the vanilla taste.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the difference between vanilla syrup and French vanilla syrup?
Vanilla syrup is made with just sugar, water and vanilla extract. French vanilla syrup usually has a creamier flavour profile often with added notes of custard or caramel. It’s sometimes made with additional ingredients like egg yolk flavouring or dairy to mimic the taste of French vanilla ice cream.
What type of vanilla is best?
Pure vanilla extract gives the best taste, but vanilla bean paste or a scraped vanilla bean also work beautifully.
Why is my syrup cloudy?
It may be due to undissolved sugar or using unfiltered water. Give it a stir and store in a clean container.
Ways to use vanilla syrup
This simple syrup isn’t just for coffee. Here are a few delicious ways to enjoy it:
- Iced coffee, hot coffee or even cold brews
- Iced lattes, cappuccinos or macchiatos
- Tea lemonades and matcha
- Smoothies and milkshakes
- Yogurt or oatmeal
- Pancakes, protein bars, cupcakes or ice cream
Storing tips
Storing: Keep the syrup in a sealed jar or bottle in the fridge for up to 4 months. Refill your pump dispenser as needed for easy use in your favourite drinks and desserts.
What you need to make this recipe
- Get some cute coffee syrup dispensers to encourage you to drink more iced coffee at home.
Vanilla Syrup {for Iced Coffee!}
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Boil water in a kettle and add sugar to a mason jar. Add boiling water and mix with sugar until dissolved, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Let cool for at least 30 minutes before using for iced coffees and flavouring other drinks. Will last in the fridge up to 4 months.
Comments & Reviews
Renee Amaral says
Love having this on hand!