WHY MAKE THIS RECIPE
Making simple cinnamon syrup for coffee is an excellent way to enhance your favorite beverage. This syrup adds a warm, sweet, and spicy flavor that pairs perfectly with coffee. Whether you want to brighten up your morning routine or create a cozy ambiance for an afternoon pick-me-up, cinnamon syrup can transform your drink from ordinary to extraordinary. It’s easy to make, requires just a few ingredients, and can be used in various ways. The homemade version is often better than store-bought because you can adjust the sweetness and cinnamon intensity to your liking.
HOW TO MAKE Simple Cinnamon Syrup
Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- ¼ tsp cinnamon extract
DIRECTIONS:
Making simple cinnamon syrup is straightforward:
- Start by adding the sugar, water, and cinnamon sticks to a small saucepan.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir gently to help dissolve the sugar completely.
- Once it starts simmering, reduce the heat slightly and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This allows the cinnamon flavor to infuse into the syrup.
- After simmering, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the cinnamon extract for an additional boost of cinnamon flavor.
- Let the syrup sit for 15 minutes so the flavors can meld together.
- Finally, strain out the cinnamon sticks using a fine mesh sieve or a cheesecloth, and transfer the syrup into a clean syrup bottle or jar.
- Store the syrup in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to 14 days.
HOW TO SERVE Simple Cinnamon Syrup
Serving simple cinnamon syrup is easy and fun. You can use it in various ways to enhance your coffee. Here are a few simple serving suggestions:
- In Coffee: Drizzle a tablespoon or two into your brewed coffee for a sweet and spicy flavor boost.
- In Lattes: Mix a couple of tablespoons into lattes for a delightful cinnamon latte experience.
- Over Ice Cream: Use the syrup as a topping for vanilla or coffee ice cream for extra flavor.
- With Pancakes or Waffles: Pour over pancakes or waffles to give a unique spin on breakfast.
- In Cocktails: Add it to cocktails that could use a bit of sweetness and spice, like an apple cider cocktail.
When serving, feel free to adjust how much syrup you use based on your taste preference.
HOW TO STORE Simple Cinnamon Syrup
Proper storage of your cinnamon syrup helps maintain its freshness and flavor. Here are tips to store your syrup:
- Refrigeration: Always store your cinnamon syrup in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. It should be contained in a syrup bottle or a clean glass jar with a tight lid.
- Duration: The syrup can stay good in the fridge for up to 14 days. It’s best to consume it within this time frame for optimal flavor.
- Check Before Use: Before using your syrup, always check for any signs of spoilage, such as changes in color or an off smell.
TIPS TO MAKE Simple Cinnamon Syrup
Here are useful tips to ensure your cinnamon syrup turns out perfect every time:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cinnamon sticks and quality sugar will yield the best flavors.
- Experiment with Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar based on how sweet you like your syrup. You can also try using brown sugar for a different flavor profile.
- Adjust the Spices: If you love cinnamon, you can add an extra cinnamon stick during simmering for a more intense flavor.
- Mix with Other Flavors: Consider adding other spices like nutmeg or vanilla extract for a unique twist on your syrup.
- Batch Preparation: Make larger batches of the syrup if you find yourself using it often. Just remember to keep it refrigerated.
VARIATIONS
Cinnamon syrup can be modified to suit various tastes and preferences. Here are some delicious variations to try:
- Honey Cinnamon Syrup: Replace sugar with honey for a natural sweetener option. Use the same measurements, but remember that honey may slightly alter the texture.
- Vanilla Cinnamon Syrup: Add a splash of vanilla extract along with the cinnamon extract for a delightful blend of flavors.
- Spiced Cinnamon Syrup: Include a pinch of nutmeg or allspice during the simmering process for a more complex flavor.
- Chocolate Cinnamon Syrup: Add cocoa powder or melted chocolate for a chocolatey twist to your syrup.
These variations can give your coffee, desserts, or breakfast dishes a whole new character, so don’t hesitate to try them out!
FAQs
Can I use ground cinnamon instead of cinnamon sticks?
While cinnamon sticks are best for a clean infusion, you can use ground cinnamon. Just mix a teaspoon of ground cinnamon into the syrup while it simmers, but strain well to avoid any gritty texture.
How can I use cinnamon syrup outside of coffee?
Cinnamon syrup is fantastic over pancakes, waffles, yogurt, or ice cream. You can also mix it into smoothies, cocktails, or even oatmeal for a unique flavor twist.
Is cinnamon syrup vegan?
Yes, this simple cinnamon syrup is vegan as it consists of sugar, water, and cinnamon without any animal products.
Can I freeze cinnamon syrup for later use?
Yes, you can freeze cinnamon syrup. Pour it into an ice cube tray and freeze. Once frozen, pop out the cubes and store them in a freezer bag. You can easily thaw and use as needed.
By following these simple steps and tips, you can easily integrate this delightful cinnamon syrup into your daily coffee routine and enhance your culinary creations. Enjoy the comforting flavors of cinnamon, and experiment with different ways to use this delightful syrup!