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Winter Spice Coffee Syrup

Create a cozy homemade winter spice syrup that infuses the rich flavors of cinnamon, clove, and orange into your coffee, perfect for lattes all season long.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Beverage, Drink
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 50
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the syrup
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup granulated sugar or light brown sugar
  • 2 sticks cinnamon
  • 6 to 8 whole cloves
  • 4 to 6 whole allspice berries
  • 1 whole star anise
  • 1 large strip of orange peel (about 4 inches) Avoid the white pith.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 small pinch ground nutmeg
  • 3 slices fresh ginger (optional) For a zesty kick.
  • tiny pinch black pepper (optional) For gentle heat.
For the latte
  • 1 to 2 shots of espresso Or brew a strong cup of coffee.
  • 6 to 8 ounces milk Any milk works, but whole milk is creamiest.
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons winter spice syrup Add more to taste.

Method
 

Making the syrup
  1. Add water and sugar to a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture looks clear.
  2. Drop in cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice berries, star anise, orange peel, and any optional spices you're using.
  3. Bring to a light simmer and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, uncovered.
  4. Turn off the heat and let the syrup steep for 15 to 20 minutes.
  5. Strain through a fine mesh sieve and stir in the vanilla extract.
  6. Cool completely, then pour into a clean glass bottle or jar.
  7. Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary.
Making the latte
  1. Use 1 to 2 shots of espresso or strong brewed coffee.
  2. Warm 6 to 8 ounces of milk until it’s steamy and froth it.
  3. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of syrup to a mug.
  4. Pour in coffee and stir, then top with frothed milk.
  5. Adjust syrup to taste and dust with cinnamon or nutmeg if desired.

Notes

Store the syrup in a clean airtight jar in the fridge. It lasts 2 to 3 weeks. For longer shelf life, increase sugar slightly or add 1 teaspoon vodka. Use clean utensils to scoop syrup. It can also be frozen in ice cube trays for convenience.