This simple vanilla syrup recipe takes only minutes to make and can be used to create your favorite coffee shop drinks at home. Making your own vanilla syrup is way easier than you think and it adds delicious flavor to coffee, tea, and much more!
I always thought that there was something so special and fancy about coffee shop syrups like the Starbucks vanilla syrup that it must be impossible to make at home. There isn't folks, and you can make that same vanilla syrup with just THREE simple ingredients.
Once you make this recipe you will wonder why you haven't made your own coffee syrups sooner!
And if you're anything like me, you'll be in your kitchen whipping up other copycat coffee shop favorites to save yourself some time and money by hitting up the Starbucks line a whole lot less!
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Ingredients You Need To Make This Vanilla Syrup
- Granulated sugar. Sugar is dissolved in water on the stovetop to create a simple syrup which is the base for our vanilla syrup.
- Vanilla bean (optional). This syrup can be made without any vanilla bean but if you have this ingredient on hand I highly suggest using it for a more potent vanilla flavor.
- Vanilla extract. Vanilla extract can be used on its own or in combination with the vanilla bean to flavor the syrup.
How To Make This Recipe
- First, make your simple syrup by heating one cup of water combined with one cup of granulated sugar in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
- If using, slice the vanilla bean lengthwise, and scrape the vanilla beans into the pan along with the bean pod. Heat the syrup until the sugar has dissolved.
- Remove the pan from the heat, add in your vanilla extract, stir to combine, and allow the syrup to cool completely.
- Once the syrup has cooled, discard the vanilla bean pod or place it in the bottle with the syrup for a more intense vanilla flavor, pour the syrup into your favorite storage container, and use it to flavor all of your favorite coffee and tea beverages!
Ideas for Using Homemade Vanilla Syrup
Of course, coffee is the obvious choice for using vanilla syrup but do not stop there! Use this vanilla syrup in:
- Tea
- Sparkling water (so dang good!)
- Oatmeal
- Mocktails
- Smoothies
- Yogurt
Storing Instructions and Container Suggestions
Since this syrup is made using the hot process method, it can be stored for up to a month in the refrigerator if stored properly!
This syrup can be stored in:
- A mason jar
- A plastic condiment container (my favorite!)
- A glass vinegar/olive oil bottle (pictured in this recipe)
- You can also reuse an old disposable syrup container
Tips To Make This Syrup Last Longer
- Be sure and clean and sterilize your storage container thoroughly. This prevents any mold from growing and helps the syrup last longer.
- Store the syrup in the refrigerator and do not leave it out at room temperature.
- Do not make more syrup than you plan to use within a few weeks. This recipe typically lasts me right around three weeks. I used to make larger batches but always ended up throwing part of it out. Just stick with a smaller batch to make sure you are enjoying fresh syrup.
Recommended Tools For This Recipe
- Small saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Storage bottle such as a plastic condiment bottle, glass vinegar bottle, or mason jar
More Tasty Beverages You Will Love!
- Copycat Starbucks Chocolate Cream Cold Brew
- Tropical Avocado Smoothie
- Mulled Apple Cider
- Virgin Mango Margarita
📖 Recipe
Homemade Vanilla Syrup (Starbucks Copycat)
Equipment
- Plastic condiment bottle mason jar, or glass vinegar bottle for storing
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 vanilla bean
- 1 teaspoon vanilla exract
Instructions
- Make your simple syrup by heating one cup of water combined with one cup of granulated sugar in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
- Slice the vanilla bean pod lengthwise, and scrape the vanilla beans into the pan and toss in the bean pod. Heat the syrup until the sugar has dissolved while stirring with a wooden spoon.
- Remove the pan from the heat, stir in your vanilla extract, and allow the syrup to cool completely.
- Once the syrup has cooled, discard the vanilla bean pod or place it in the bottle with the syrup for a more intense vanilla flavor, pour the syrup into your favorite storage container, and use it to flavor all of your favorite coffee and tea beverages!
Notes
- You can also make this syrup without the vanilla bean. Just increase the amount of vanilla extract to three teaspoons.
- Homemade vanilla syrup can be stored in a sterilized airtight container in the refrigerator for to a month.
Megan
I made this syrup and the chocolate cream cold brew today and they were both delicious and so easy to make!
Ashley Boyd
I’m so happy you enjoyed both recipes Megan! They are certainly a game changer for coffee at home. Thank you!