Homemade Cinnamon Simple Syrup: Your Essential Fall Flavor Enhancer for Cocktails & Coffee

As the leaves begin to change and a crispness fills the air, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma and warming spice of cinnamon. This **homemade cinnamon simple syrup** is your secret weapon for infusing that cozy, autumnal feeling into all your favorite drinks and dishes. With just four simple ingredients, you can effortlessly create a versatile syrup that will transform your cocktails, elevate your morning coffee, and even add a delightful twist to desserts.

Forget store-bought syrups loaded with artificial flavors; crafting your own **cinnamon simple syrup** is incredibly easy, cost-effective, and fills your home with the most inviting scent. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or simply looking to add a touch of fall magic to your everyday routine, this recipe is a must-try. It’s not just a seasonal treat; it’s a staple that you’ll want to keep on hand year-round for that perfect hint of warming spice. This recipe makes approximately 1 cup of delicious cinnamon syrup.

About This Homemade Cinnamon Simple Syrup

The arrival of autumn calls for all things cinnamon, and I’m wholeheartedly embracing this spicy phase! From fragrant candles to delectable cinnamon rolls and a generous dash in my coffee, this quintessential fall spice is everywhere. This particular **cinnamon syrup** is the perfect way to infuse a rich, warming spice into your favorite beverages, making every sip feel like a cozy embrace. Once you experience how easy and rewarding it is to make, you’ll find yourself consistently whipping up batches to keep stocked in your kitchen or home bar.

I’ve always been a huge advocate for homemade simple syrups because they are astonishingly easy to prepare and significantly more economical than their store-bought counterparts. The process of adding a robust cinnamon flavor doesn’t complicate the classic simple syrup recipe one bit. Our special touch includes not only high-quality **cinnamon sticks** but also a hint of pure vanilla extract. While some recipes omit the vanilla, I firmly believe it deepens and enhances the inherent warmth of the cinnamon, creating a more complex and inviting flavor profile, making this a true **vanilla cinnamon syrup** experience.

This delightful syrup lasts for up to two weeks when stored properly in the refrigerator, making it incredibly convenient for regular use or for preparing in advance of special occasions. Imagine impressing your guests at tailgating parties, Thanksgiving gatherings, or holiday brunches with custom-spiced drinks. Beyond festive events, it’s also a fantastic way to upgrade your daily routine. A splash of this **homemade cinnamon simple syrup** in your morning coffee transforms it into a gourmet fall treat, offering a comforting taste of the season in every mug. All you need are basic pantry ingredients to get started on this flavorful journey!

Key Ingredients for Cinnamon Simple Syrup

Crafting this flavorful **cinnamon simple syrup** requires just a few basic ingredients that you likely already have on hand. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of its components, which come together to create a rich, aromatic liquid gold.

• Water: Since you’ll be boiling the water to dissolve the sugar, there’s no specific requirement for purified or filtered water unless that’s your personal preference or if your tap water quality is a concern. Standard tap water works perfectly for this recipe, making your **easy simple syrup recipe** even more accessible.
• Sugar: Our primary recommendation is granulated sugar, which easily dissolves and provides a clean, balanced sweetness. However, for those seeking a deeper, more complex flavor profile, experimenting with brown sugar (light or dark) is highly encouraged. Brown sugar imparts lovely caramel and molasses notes, which can beautifully complement the cinnamon, especially for **fall cocktails**. Remember to break up any large clumps of brown sugar before adding it to your saucepan to ensure smooth dissolution and prevent any unevenly sweetened syrup.
• Cinnamon Sticks: The true star of this **spiced syrup**! The type of cinnamon stick you choose can subtly influence the final aroma and taste.
  • Cassia Cinnamon: This is the most common variety, often simply labeled “cinnamon sticks” in grocery stores. It offers a strong, robust, and slightly spicy flavor.
  • Ceylon Cinnamon: Also known as “true cinnamon,” Ceylon cinnamon has a milder, sweeter, and more delicate flavor with a hint of citrus. Many connoisseurs prefer it for its nuanced aroma.

  Feel free to try different types to discover which one you like best. Using whole sticks is paramount, as they slowly release their essential oils, creating a deeply infused flavor that ground cinnamon cannot match.

• Vanilla Extract: A high-quality pure vanilla extract is the secret ingredient that elevates this **cinnamon simple syrup**. My go-to is Nielsen Massey’s Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract, known for its exceptional richness and depth. The vanilla doesn’t just add its own sweet notes; it expertly enhances and rounds out the warming spice of the cinnamon, resulting in an incredibly aromatic and smooth **vanilla cinnamon syrup**. This subtle addition transforms the simple syrup into something truly extraordinary and irresistible.

Essential Equipment for Syrup Making

Making **homemade cinnamon syrup** is incredibly straightforward, requiring only a few basic kitchen tools. You certainly don’t need any fancy gadgets to achieve perfect results for this **DIY simple syrup**.

• Saucepan: A small to medium-sized saucepan is essential. It’s used for bringing the water and sugar to a boil and then for simmering the ingredients gently. Opt for a saucepan with a heavy bottom if possible, as this helps distribute heat evenly and reduces the risk of the sugar scorching at the bottom.
• Wooden Spoon: A trusty wooden spoon is perfect for stirring the mixture until the sugar completely dissolves. It’s gentle on your saucepan’s surface and helps ensure thorough mixing without scratching.
• Fine Mesh Sieve (Optional but Recommended): While you can technically remove the larger cinnamon sticks with tongs, a fine mesh sieve is highly recommended for straining the syrup. It effectively catches any smaller fragments of cinnamon or other impurities, resulting in a beautifully clear, smooth, and refined syrup. This small step contributes to a professional-quality finish.
• Airtight Container: Once your **cinnamon simple syrup** is prepared and cooled, you’ll need an appropriate container for storage. I highly recommend using classic mason jars. Their excellent sealing capabilities are perfect for keeping your syrup fresh in the refrigerator for extended periods. Any other clean, food-grade airtight glass bottle or container will also work well to prevent air exposure and maintain flavor.

How to Make Cinnamon Simple Syrup: Step-by-Step

Making your own **cinnamon simple syrup** is a surprisingly quick and rewarding process. Follow these straightforward steps to create a rich, aromatic syrup that will become a staple in your kitchen for **simple syrup for drinks** and more.

Step 1: Boil the Base

Begin by combining the specified amounts of water and granulated sugar in a small saucepan. Place the saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon until the sugar completely dissolves into the water. It’s crucial that all the sugar crystals are fully incorporated to create a smooth simple syrup base, preventing any crystallization later. Once dissolved, bring the mixture to a vigorous, rolling boil.

Step 2: Simmer and Steep for Flavor

Once the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Now, add your chosen **cinnamon sticks** and the pure vanilla extract. Stir gently to ensure all ingredients are well combined and submerged in the syrup. Cover the saucepan with a lid and let it simmer for approximately 5 minutes. This initial simmering allows the cinnamon and vanilla to begin releasing their intense flavors into the warm syrup. After 5 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat, but keep it covered. Allowing the mixture to steep for at least 1 hour is vital for a deep, rich cinnamon flavor to fully infuse into the syrup. For an even more intense spice, you can extend the steeping time to 2-3 hours, or even overnight once the syrup has cooled to room temperature.

Step 3: Strain and Store

Once the steeping process is complete and the syrup has cooled sufficiently, it’s time to prepare it for storage. Carefully strain out all the **cinnamon sticks** from the syrup using a fine mesh sieve. This ensures your syrup is beautifully smooth and free of any spice fragments. Transfer the strained **cinnamon simple syrup** into a clean, airtight container. Mason jars are an excellent choice, or you can opt for elegant simple syrup dispensers readily available on Amazon. Once the syrup has completely cooled to room temperature, seal the container tightly and store it in the refrigerator. Proper storage is key to maintaining its freshness and flavor for up to two weeks, ensuring your **fall simple syrup** is always ready for use.

Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Simple Syrup

Achieving the best possible **homemade cinnamon syrup** is easy with these helpful tips, ensuring a rich, aromatic, and perfectly balanced syrup every time:

• Maximize Steeping Time for Flavor: The steeping phase is where the magic truly happens! Ensuring you let the syrup steep for at least one hour is critical for full flavor development. This prolonged contact time allows the cinnamon sticks to fully infuse their aromatic oils and warming essence into the sugar mixture, resulting in a deeply flavored syrup. For an even more intense cinnamon kick, don’t hesitate to extend the steeping time to 2-3 hours, or even longer (once the syrup is cool, you can leave it overnight in the refrigerator for a very robust flavor). Patience here is key to a truly rich result for your **spiced syrup**.
• Boost Cinnamon Intensity: If you desire an even bolder **cinnamon stick simple syrup** flavor, there are a couple of clever tricks you can use. First, consider gently breaking the cinnamon sticks into a few larger pieces before adding them to the pot. This increases their surface area, allowing for more direct contact with the hot syrup and thus a more efficient flavor extraction. Alternatively, or in addition to breaking the sticks, you can simply add an extra cinnamon stick or two to the mixture. After the initial steeping, taste the syrup. If it’s not quite strong enough for your liking, let it sit for another hour, tasting periodically until it reaches your desired intensity.
• Why Ground Cinnamon is a No-Go: While convenient, ground cinnamon is absolutely not suitable for making a clear simple syrup. Unlike whole cinnamon sticks, ground spices do not dissolve in liquid; instead, they remain as fine particles. If you use ground cinnamon, your syrup will turn out grainy, cloudy, and will likely leave an unpleasant powdery residue in your drinks or on your food. For a beautifully clear, smooth, and professional-looking **cinnamon simple syrup**, always stick to whole cinnamon sticks. They provide pure flavor without compromising texture.
• Cool Completely Before Storing: This tip is crucial for both quality and safety. Always ensure your syrup has cooled completely to room temperature before sealing it and placing it in the refrigerator. Storing hot or warm syrup can create condensation inside the container, which may introduce excess moisture and potentially shorten its shelf life or promote bacterial growth.
• Label and Date for Freshness: For optimal freshness and food safety, always label your storage container with the name of the syrup and the exact date it was made. This simple practice helps you easily keep track of its two-week shelf life in the refrigerator, ensuring you enjoy it at its peak flavor.

Looking for more delicious fall cocktail inspiration to try with your new cinnamon syrup? Check out these fantastic recipes: Pumpkin Spice Bourbon Old Fashioned | Apple Whiskey Sidecar | Pumpkin Pie Martini | Apple Bourbon Smash

FAQ: How Long Does Cinnamon Simple Syrup Last in the Fridge?

Your homemade **cinnamon simple syrup** will stay delightfully fresh and flavorful for up to two weeks when properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To ensure maximum freshness and make it easy to track, I highly recommend using a mason jar and labeling it clearly with the date it was prepared. While any other airtight container will work, mason jars provide a superior seal, which is crucial for preventing air exposure and maintaining the syrup’s quality over time. Always give your syrup a quick check for any signs of mold or an off-smell before using it, although with proper storage, this is a rare occurrence.

FAQ: Can I Use Other Sugars for Simple Syrup?

You absolutely can! While our primary recipe uses granulated sugar for a classic, clean sweetness, there are wonderful alternatives that can add depth and unique flavor profiles to your **cinnamon simple syrup**. You can certainly opt to use light brown sugar or dark brown sugar in this recipe. Using brown sugar will impart a richer, more complex flavor to your syrup, characterized by delightful caramel and molasses notes. Dark brown sugar will naturally offer a more pronounced molasses flavor compared to light brown sugar. Keep this potential flavor change in mind when deciding which sugar to use, as it will influence the overall taste of your final drinks or dishes. For instance, a brown sugar cinnamon syrup pairs exceptionally well with darker spirits like bourbon or rum, enhancing their inherent warmth and complexity, making it an ideal **fall simple syrup** for seasonal concoctions.

FAQ: Ground Cinnamon vs. Cinnamon Sticks for Syrup

I strongly advise against using ground cinnamon for this recipe. While it might seem like a convenient substitute for **cinnamon stick simple syrup**, the texture and quality of the final syrup will be significantly compromised. Ground cinnamon, by its very nature, does not fully dissolve in liquid. This means that if you attempt to use it, your syrup will turn out noticeably grainy, cloudy, and will likely leave an unpleasant powdery residue in your drinks or on your food. This gritty texture can be quite unappealing and detracts from the smooth consistency desired in a simple syrup. For a beautifully clear, smooth, and professional-grade **cinnamon simple syrup** that infuses pure flavor without any grittiness, whole cinnamon sticks are the undisputed and best way to go. They release their essential oils slowly and steadily, creating a superior aromatic and flavorful syrup that is both visually appealing and perfectly smooth.

Need some more inspiration for happy hour? Dive into my booze recipes page for a wealth of creative drink ideas that pair perfectly with homemade syrups!

Cocktail Ideas: What to Make with Cinnamon Simple Syrup

The versatility of **cinnamon simple syrup** in the realm of cocktails is truly impressive! This **spiced syrup** can be used as a delicious and easy substitute in almost any drink recipe that calls for regular simple syrup, instantly adding a warm, autumnal, or festive twist. Your imagination is the only limit when creating **cinnamon cocktail syrup** drinks, but here are some popular ideas to get you started:

• Old Fashioned: Replace the traditional sugar cube or plain simple syrup with your homemade cinnamon simple syrup for a cozy, spiced twist on this classic whiskey cocktail. The warming notes of cinnamon pair exceptionally well with bourbon or rye.
• Moscow Mule: Add a dash of cinnamon syrup to your Moscow Mule for a refreshing drink with an unexpected warming kick. The crisp ginger beer and tart lime will be perfectly complemented by the subtle spice of the cinnamon.
• Whiskey or Tequila Sours: Elevate the classic Whiskey Sour or Tequila Sour by incorporating cinnamon simple syrup instead of plain syrup. The sweet spice beautifully balances the tart lemon juice and the chosen spirit, creating a more complex and inviting drink.
• Gin or Vodka Tonics: For a simple yet elegant and flavorful drink, add a splash of cinnamon simple syrup to your standard Gin and Tonic or Vodka Tonic. Garnish with an apple slice or an extra cinnamon stick for an aromatic touch.
• Sparkling Cider or Apple Juice Cocktails: Combine this syrup with sparkling cider or apple juice, along with a complementary spirit like rum or brandy, for the ultimate fall-inspired punch or individual cocktail. These are perfect for holiday gatherings.
• Hot Toddy Variations: While often made with honey, a Hot Toddy benefits wonderfully from cinnamon simple syrup, especially if you’re looking to enhance its warming properties.

Beyond alcoholic beverages, this syrup is also fantastic for creating delightful **cinnamon mocktails**. Mix it with sparkling water, a squeeze of fresh lemon or orange juice, and a few berries for a refreshing, non-alcoholic treat that still feels special and festive.

Beyond Drinks: Creative Uses for Cinnamon Simple Syrup

While **cinnamon simple syrup** is a phenomenal addition to beverages, its applications extend far beyond the bar! This incredibly versatile **spiced syrup** can be used in countless culinary ways to infuse a delightful warmth and sweetness into various dishes, making it a truly indispensable kitchen staple. Here are some inspiring ideas to use your homemade syrup:

• Coffee & Tea Enhancer: Revolutionize your morning routine! Stir a spoonful (or two, to taste) into your hot coffee, iced coffee, latte, or cappuccino for a gourmet **cinnamon coffee syrup** experience that rivals your favorite cafe. It’s equally wonderful in hot or iced tea, especially black tea, herbal infusions, or chai, adding a comforting depth of flavor.
• Hot Chocolate Upgrade: Swirl a generous amount into your next mug of hot chocolate for a richer, more complex flavor profile. The cinnamon complements the chocolate beautifully, creating a perfect cozy treat for chilly evenings.
• Dessert Topping: Drizzle this delicious syrup generously over a variety of desserts. It’s fantastic on vanilla ice cream, plain yogurt, or fresh fruit such as sliced apples, pears, or bananas. It makes an exceptional and unique alternative to traditional maple syrup for pancakes, waffles, or French toast, instantly adding a gourmet touch to your breakfast or brunch spread.
• Baking & Glazes: Incorporate **simple syrup for drinks** into your baking! Use it to moisten and flavor cakes or cupcakes. Simply brush cooled cakes with the cinnamon simple syrup before frosting for an extra layer of moisture and a subtle, aromatic cinnamon kick. It can also be mixed into glazes for pastries, donuts, sweet breads, or even a simple sugar cookie icing.
• Marinades & Dressings: For a unique savory-sweet twist, try adding a small amount of cinnamon simple syrup to marinades for pork, chicken, or even roasted root vegetables, especially for fall-inspired dishes. It can also be an intriguing ingredient in homemade vinaigrettes for autumn salads featuring ingredients like apples, candied nuts, and goat cheese.
• Oatmeal & Porridge Sweetener: Stir into your morning oatmeal, cream of wheat, or porridge for a naturally sweetened and deliciously spiced breakfast that warms you from the inside out, providing a comforting start to your day.

The culinary options are truly endless! Simply keep your homemade **cinnamon simple syrup** chilled in the refrigerator, and it will be ready whenever you desire to add a touch of warming cinnamon flavor to your drinks, meals, and desserts. It’s an effortless way to elevate everyday items into something truly special and memorable.

Storage Tips for Cinnamon Simple Syrup

Proper storage is essential to ensure your **homemade cinnamon simple syrup** remains fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Here’s how to keep your **spiced syrup** at its best, whether you plan to use it soon or save it for later:

• Refrigerate for Short-Term Use: After your homemade **cinnamon simple syrup** has completely cooled to room temperature, transfer it into a clean, airtight container. A mason jar is perfect for this purpose due to its excellent sealing capabilities. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will maintain its quality and flavor for up to two weeks. Always label the container with the date it was made so you know precisely when it was prepared and when to use it by.
• Freeze for Longer Storage: Did you know that **cinnamon simple syrup** can be frozen? This is an excellent option if you’ve made a larger batch or want to enjoy fresh syrup beyond its two-week refrigerated shelf life. To freeze, pour the completely cooled syrup into ice cube trays and freeze until solid. Once the cubes are thoroughly frozen, transfer them into a freezer-safe plastic storage container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Frozen syrup cubes will keep well for up to three months, offering a convenient way to always have this flavorful syrup on hand.
• Thaw Instructions: To use frozen syrup, simply transfer the desired number of cubes into a bowl or jar and place them in the refrigerator overnight to thaw. Alternatively, for quicker thawing, you can place the cubes in a small saucepan over very low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until liquid, or microwave them in short bursts. Once thawed, use it as you would fresh syrup. This method makes it incredibly convenient to always have a supply of **spiced syrup** readily available for any recipe or beverage.

If you’re looking to explore other exciting simple syrup flavors to expand your mixology and culinary repertoire, be sure to check out my floral lavender simple syrup recipe – another fantastic way to elevate your drinks and dishes!

Finally, if you whip up this fantastic **homemade cinnamon simple syrup**, I would absolutely love to hear from you! Please consider giving this recipe a rating or leaving a comment below to share your experience. Your feedback truly brightens my day, and I make an effort to respond to every single comment. Don’t hesitate to drop any questions you might have about making or using this delicious syrup!

And for those who love to share their culinary creations, be sure to tag me on Instagram (@cakenknife) when you make the recipe! It’s genuinely my favorite thing to see these recipes come to life in your homes – your photos and enthusiasm mean the world to me!

Cinnamon Simple Syrup Recipe Card

Cinnamon simple syrup is an easy way to add a warm spice flavor to your favorite drinks and dishes! This homemade syrup is perfect for fall cocktails, coffee, mocktails, and desserts.

Prep Time: 2 minutes mins

Cook Time: 10 minutes mins

Additional Time: 1 hour hr

Total Time: 1 hour hr 12 minutes mins

Yield: 1 cup

5 from 50 votes

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Equipment

• Long wooden spoon
• Saucepan
• Fine Mesh Strainer
• Mason Jars

Ingredients

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 5 cinnamon sticks
• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract

Instructions

• Stir together water and sugar in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil and stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
• Add cinnamon sticks and vanilla, stirring gently to combine. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook, covered, for 5 minutes.
• Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the mixture to steep, still covered, for at least 1 hour to fully infuse the flavors. For a stronger cinnamon flavor, steep for up to 2-3 hours.
• Strain the syrup into a clean, airtight container. Once cooled completely to room temperature, seal the container and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 819kcal | Carbohydrates: 214g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.01g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.04g | Sodium: 16mg | Potassium: 82mg | Fiber: 9g | Sugar: 200g | Vitamin A: 52IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 185mg | Iron: 2mg

Calories: 819kcal

Cuisine: Fall Cocktails

Category: Booze