Vanilla bean simple syrup is an easy way to add real vanilla flavor to coffee, cocktails, and other drinks. Made with sugar, water, and vanilla bean paste, this homemade syrup has a smooth sweetness and the distinctive flavor of real vanilla.
How to Use Vanilla Bean Simple Syrup
Vanilla bean simple syrup is an easy way to sweeten and flavor drinks at the same time. Because the sugar is already dissolved in water, the syrup mixes easily into cold drinks, unlike granulated sugar, which can settle at the bottom of your glass.
It also helps to distribute the vanilla flavor evenly, so you get sweetness and vanilla in every sip.
Use homemade vanilla bean simple syrup in:
- Iced coffee and cold brew: Add vanilla sweetness to your favorite homemade coffee drinks.
- Lattes and espresso drinks: Stir it into hot or iced espresso before adding milk. This is the perfect way to make a vanilla latte!
- Cocktails and mocktails: Add balanced sweetness and vanilla flavor to your favorite drinks.
- Iced tea and lemonade: Sweeten cold beverages without waiting for sugar to dissolve.
Start with about 1 tablespoon per drink and add more to taste.
Ingredients
See the recipe card for exact amounts.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the syrup without overpowering the vanilla flavor.
- Water: To dissolve the sugar and make a smooth, pourable syrup that mixes easily into hot and cold drinks.
- Vanilla bean paste: Adds rich vanilla flavor and tiny black vanilla seeds for the look and taste of vanilla bean syrup.
Tips for Making Vanilla Syrup
- Add the vanilla off the heat. Stirring in the vanilla bean paste after cooking helps preserve its aroma.
- Expect vanilla specks. The tiny black seeds are normal and give the syrup its vanilla bean appearance.
- Adjust the sweetness. Start with a small amount in your drink and add more as needed.
Instructions
- Add the granulated sugar and water to a small saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Simmer for 3–5 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla bean paste until evenly distributed.
- Let the syrup cool completely, then transfer it to a clean jar or bottle with a lid. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Storage
Store vanilla bean simple syrup in a clean, airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The vanilla seeds may settle as the syrup sits, so give the container a gentle shake or stir before using.
Always use a clean spoon when serving. Discard the syrup if you notice mold, an unusual smell, or other signs of spoilage.
FAQs
Yes. You can substitute vanilla extract for the vanilla bean paste. Start with the same amount: 2 teaspoons. Adjust to taste. The syrup will still taste like vanilla, but it won’t have the visible vanilla seeds.
Yes. Store it in a clean, sealed container in the refrigerator and use it within about 2 weeks.
More Syrup Recipes
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Vanilla Bean Syrup
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste
Instructions
- Combine the sugar and water in a small saucepan.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Simmer for 3 minutes, then remove the pan from the heat.
- Stir in the vanilla bean paste.
- Cool, then transfer to a clean jar or bottle. Refrigerate.
Notes
Nutritional information is an estimate. Values vary based on products used. Read our full Nutrition Disclaimer.
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