Brown Sugar Cinnamon Syrup

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Brown Sugar Cinnamon Syrup

Sweet and spiced—this Starbucks-inspired syrup blends dark brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, and vanilla into a rich syrup perfect for lattes, cold brew, and baking.

Brown sugar cinnamon syrup in bottle with mugs of coffee
Hands-on: 5 min Simmer: 8 min Yield: ~1¼ cups Diet: Vegan • Gluten-Free

Ingredients

  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup dark brown sugar
  • 3 cinnamon sticks
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
Dark vs. light: Dark brown sugar adds richer molasses depth; light brown gives a softer flavor.

Step-by-Step

  1. Simmer. Combine water, brown sugar, and cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook 8 minutes, stirring once or twice.
  2. Finish. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla. Cool slightly, then discard cinnamon sticks.
  3. Cool & store. Let cool fully before bottling. Refrigerate.
Stronger spice: Leave cinnamon sticks in syrup while cooling for a bolder flavor.

How to Use Brown Sugar Cinnamon Syrup

  • Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso: Shake espresso, syrup, oatmilk, and ice—just like Starbucks.
  • Lattes & Cappuccinos: 1–2 Tbsp syrup with espresso and milk.
  • Cold Brew: Stir 1 Tbsp into cold brew with a splash of cream.
  • Breakfast: Drizzle over pancakes, waffles, oatmeal, or French toast.
  • Cocktails: Try in bourbon or rum drinks with orange zest.
  • Baking: Brush onto cakes or cinnamon rolls before icing.

Variations & Pro Tips

  • Maple-Cinnamon: Replace ¼ cup sugar with maple syrup (add after simmering).
  • Vanilla-Cinnamon: Use a whole vanilla bean instead of extract; split and simmer with the sticks.
  • Extra spice: Add 2–3 allspice berries or a clove with the cinnamon.
  • Lighter syrup: Use only ¾ cup brown sugar for a thinner, less sweet syrup.
Yield~1¼ cups (20 Tbsp)
Total Time~20 minutes including cooling
StorageRefrigerate airtight up to 2 weeks. Shake before use. Freeze in cubes for longer storage.
AllergensNone common