Homemade Cinnamon Simple Syrup: Your Ultimate Guide to Crafting Flavorful Fall Drinks and Desserts

Welcome to the cozy world of homemade Cinnamon Simple Syrup! This incredibly versatile, four-ingredient recipe is your secret weapon for transforming ordinary drinks and desserts into extraordinary autumn-inspired delights. Imagine infusing your favorite cocktails, mocktails, coffee, and even baked goods with the warm, aromatic embrace of cinnamon. Not only is it remarkably easy to prepare, but the process itself will fill your home with an irresistible, comforting fragrance that truly signals the start of fall. This recipe yields approximately 1 cup of rich, spice-infused syrup, ready to elevate your culinary creations.

About This Cinnamon Simple Syrup

As the leaves begin to change and a crisp breeze fills the air, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of cinnamon. Whether you’re craving cinnamon candles, freshly baked cinnamon rolls, or a spiced coffee, this time of year truly calls for all things cinnamon! This delightful cinnamon simple syrup recipe is perfectly timed for the season, bringing that beloved warming spice directly to your kitchen.

This isn’t just any simple syrup; it’s a meticulously crafted infusion designed to elevate your beverages and desserts. It’s an ideal way to imbue your cocktails, mocktails, and coffee creations with a potent, yet balanced, burst of warming spice. Once you experience the depth of flavor and ease of preparation, you’ll find yourself consistently whipping up batches to keep on hand in your kitchen or home bar. It truly becomes an indispensable ingredient for those who appreciate gourmet touches.

I’ve always championed homemade simple syrups for their incredible simplicity and cost-effectiveness. Why spend a premium at the grocery or liquor store when you can create a superior product at home for a fraction of the price? The beauty of this recipe is that adding the rich cinnamon flavor doesn’t complicate the process in the slightest. With just a few pantry staples, you can transform plain sugar syrup into a fragrant, spice-laden elixir.

What sets this cinnamon simple syrup apart is the subtle, yet impactful, addition of pure vanilla extract. While some recipes omit this ingredient, I firmly believe that vanilla enhances and amplifies the warming, sweet notes of cinnamon, creating a more complex and inviting flavor profile. It brings a roundness to the spice that truly elevates the syrup beyond expectations.

Making your own simple syrup also offers complete control over the quality of ingredients, ensuring you’re using real spices and premium vanilla. This syrup lasts wonderfully for up to two weeks when stored correctly in the refrigerator, making it perfect for regular enjoyment or for preparing in advance of special occasions like tailgating parties, Thanksgiving feasts, or holiday gatherings. It’s also an effortless way to upgrade your daily coffee ritual, transforming a mundane morning cup into a luxurious, fall-flavored treat. It’s like bottling the essence of autumn in every drop!

Essential Ingredients for Cinnamon Simple Syrup

Crafting this aromatic cinnamon simple syrup requires only four simple ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry. Each plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of sweetness and spice.

• Water: For this recipe, any tap water is generally fine. Since you’ll be bringing the water to a boil, any minor impurities will be addressed. However, if you prefer, filtered or purified water can certainly be used, especially if you live in an area with hard water or strong tap water flavors.
• Sugar: I typically use granulated sugar, also known as white sugar, for its neutral sweetness that allows the cinnamon to truly shine. However, for a richer, more complex flavor profile with a subtle hint of molasses, you can experiment with light or dark brown sugar. If opting for brown sugar, ensure you break up any large clumps before adding it to the saucepan to ensure even dissolution. This small adjustment can significantly change the character of your syrup.
• Cinnamon Sticks: The star of the show! The quality and type of cinnamon sticks you choose can greatly impact the final flavor. There are several varieties available, each with its own nuances:
  • Ceylon Cinnamon (True Cinnamon): Known for its delicate, complex, and slightly citrusy flavor. It’s often considered the “gourmet” choice and is more expensive. It breaks easily.
  • Cassia Cinnamon (Common Cinnamon): This is the most widely available type, often labeled simply as “cinnamon sticks.” It has a stronger, bolder, and spicier flavor. Varieties like Saigon (Vietnamese) and Korintje (Indonesian) fall under Cassia and offer intense, sweet-spicy notes.

  Feel free to experiment with different types to discover which one best suits your palate. The robust flavor of Cassia varieties is excellent for a potent, warming syrup, while Ceylon can offer a more nuanced spice.

• Pure Vanilla Extract: A high-quality vanilla extract is paramount here. It acts as a flavor enhancer, deepening the warmth of the cinnamon and adding a layer of sophisticated sweetness. My personal favorite is Nielsen Massey’s Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract – its rich, creamy notes are simply exceptional and make a noticeable difference in the final syrup. Avoid artificial vanilla, as it won’t provide the same depth of flavor.

These four simple ingredients, when combined and steeped correctly, create a magical elixir that will become a staple in your autumnal kitchen. With minimal effort, you’ll produce a superior cinnamon simple syrup that far surpasses any store-bought alternative.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

One of the beauties of making homemade simple syrup is how little specialized equipment it requires. You likely already have everything you need right in your kitchen! To successfully prepare this cinnamon simple syrup, you will primarily need:

• Saucepan: A small to medium-sized saucepan is perfect for boiling the water and sugar, and then simmering the ingredients. Choose one with a lid to allow for proper steeping.
• Wooden Spoon or Heat-Resistant Spatula: Essential for stirring the sugar until it dissolves and for combining the ingredients. A wooden spoon is gentle on your saucepan and excellent for this task.

While not strictly necessary, a few additional items can make the process even smoother:

• Fine Mesh Sieve (Strainer): I highly recommend using a fine mesh sieve to effectively strain out the cinnamon sticks after steeping. This ensures a smooth, clear syrup without any spice fragments. Alternatively, you can use a slotted spoon or tongs to carefully remove the whole sticks.
• Airtight Container for Storage: Once cooled, your cinnamon simple syrup needs to be stored in an airtight container. My go-to choice is a classic mason jar because I always have them on hand and they provide a good seal. However, any clean, airtight glass jar or bottle will work perfectly. You can even find elegant simple syrup dispensers online if you want to add a touch of sophistication to your home bar setup.

Having these basic tools ensures a seamless and enjoyable syrup-making experience, allowing you to focus on the delicious aroma and anticipation of your flavorful creation.

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

Making cinnamon simple syrup is a straightforward process that yields incredibly rewarding results. Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of this fragrant, warming syrup:

1. Boil

Combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of granulated sugar in a small to medium-sized saucepan. Place the saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir the mixture continuously using a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula. Continue stirring until the sugar completely dissolves into the water, forming a clear liquid. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. This initial boiling step ensures that the sugar is fully incorporated and creates the base of your simple syrup.

2. Simmer & Steep

Once the sugar has dissolved and the syrup is boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Add your cinnamon sticks and the pure vanilla extract to the saucepan. Stir briefly to ensure everything is well combined. Cover the saucepan with a lid and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat, keeping it covered. Allow the mixture to steep undisturbed for at least 1 hour. This steeping period is crucial as it allows the cinnamon and vanilla flavors to fully infuse into the hot syrup, creating a rich and aromatic product. For a more intense cinnamon flavor, you can let it steep for up to 2-3 hours, or even overnight once fully cooled.

3. Strain & Store

After the steeping process is complete, carefully remove the cinnamon sticks. You can use a fine mesh sieve to strain out any small fragments or simply pick out the sticks with tongs. Transfer the finished cinnamon simple syrup into a clean, airtight container. I personally prefer using a glass mason jar for its reliable seal and classic appeal. For a more sophisticated look, you might consider purchasing elegant simple syrup dispensers, readily available on Amazon. Ensure the syrup has cooled completely to room temperature before sealing the container. Once sealed, store your homemade cinnamon simple syrup in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh and flavorful for up to two weeks, ready to enhance your next drink or dessert.

Expert Tips for the Best Cinnamon Simple Syrup

Achieving the perfect cinnamon simple syrup is easy with a few key considerations:

• Maximize Flavor with Proper Steeping: The most crucial step for a deeply flavored syrup is allowing it to steep adequately. After simmering, make sure to let the syrup rest, covered, for at least one hour. This extended contact time between the hot syrup and the cinnamon sticks is what truly extracts and infuses that rich, aromatic spice into your syrup. For an even more intense cinnamon kick, you can extend the steeping time to 2-3 hours, or even allow it to cool completely and steep overnight in the refrigerator.
• Enhance Infusion by Breaking Cinnamon Sticks: If you desire a stronger, more pronounced cinnamon flavor, consider gently breaking the cinnamon sticks into a few larger pieces before adding them to the simmering syrup. This increases the surface area exposed to the liquid, allowing for a more efficient and robust flavor extraction. Be careful not to break them too small, as they will be harder to strain out later.
• Avoid Ground Cinnamon – Stick to Sticks! It’s tempting to use ground cinnamon if you don’t have sticks on hand, but I strongly advise against it for simple syrup. Ground cinnamon does not dissolve in liquid; instead, it will remain as fine particles, resulting in a grainy, cloudy, and unappealing syrup. This gritty texture will transfer to whatever you mix the syrup into, detracting from the overall experience. For a clear, smooth, and beautifully infused syrup, cinnamon sticks are the undisputed way to go.
• Adjust Sweetness Levels (Ratio): This recipe uses a 1:1 ratio of water to sugar, which is standard for “simple” syrup. If you prefer a less sweet syrup for certain applications, you can experiment with a 2:1 water to sugar ratio (e.g., 2 cups water, 1 cup sugar). However, note that a higher sugar concentration acts as a preservative, so a less sweet syrup might have a slightly shorter shelf life.
• Cool Completely Before Storing: Always ensure your syrup has cooled down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container and refrigerating. Storing warm syrup can create condensation, which introduces excess moisture and can reduce its shelf life.

By following these tips, you’ll consistently create a superior cinnamon simple syrup that’s packed with flavor and ready for all your creative endeavors!

Tasty fall cocktails to try: Pumpkin Spice Bourbon Old Fashioned | Apple Whiskey Sidecar | Pumpkin Pie Martini | Apple Bourbon Smash

How Long Does Cinnamon Simple Syrup Last in the Fridge?

Proper storage is key to extending the life of your homemade cinnamon simple syrup. When stored in a clean, airtight container (like a mason jar) in the refrigerator, your cinnamon simple syrup will stay fresh and flavorful for approximately two weeks. It’s always a good practice to label your container with the date it was made so you can easily keep track of its freshness. While a mason jar is a popular choice, any clean glass bottle or container with a tight-fitting lid will suffice. Always give it a quick sniff and a visual check before using it – if it looks cloudy or smells off, it’s best to discard it and make a fresh batch.

Can I Use Different Types of Sugar?

Absolutely not! While granulated sugar is the standard for its neutral flavor, you have the flexibility to experiment with other sugar types. You can certainly use either light brown sugar or dark brown sugar in this recipe. Be aware that substituting brown sugar will impart a different, more complex flavor profile to your syrup. Brown sugar contains molasses, which will give the syrup a richer, caramel-like sweetness and a deeper color. Dark brown sugar, with its higher molasses content, will offer a more pronounced molasses note compared to light brown sugar. Keep this flavor characteristic in mind when deciding which sugar to use, as it will influence the taste of your cocktails, coffee, and desserts.

Why Use Cinnamon Sticks Instead of Ground Cinnamon?

I strongly advise against using ground cinnamon for this simple syrup recipe. While it might seem like a convenient substitute, it will significantly compromise the quality of your finished product. Here’s why:

• Solubility: Ground cinnamon, unlike sugar, does not dissolve completely in water. When you attempt to make syrup with it, the fine particles will remain suspended in the liquid, creating a grainy and cloudy texture.
• Texture and Appearance: This grainy texture will transfer to any drink or dish you use the syrup in, making it less pleasant to consume. Visually, the syrup will appear murky rather than the beautiful, clear amber hue you achieve with cinnamon sticks.
• Flavor Extraction: Cinnamon sticks allow for a slow, gentle infusion of flavor into the syrup, creating a nuanced and complex taste. Ground cinnamon tends to impart a harsher, less refined flavor when steeped, and can become overwhelmingly strong very quickly.

For these reasons, cinnamon sticks are truly the best choice for crafting a clear, smooth, and perfectly flavored cinnamon simple syrup. The slight extra effort is well worth the superior result!

Need some more inspiration for happy hour? Check out my booze recipes page!

What Cocktails Can I Make with Cinnamon Simple Syrup?

The beauty of cinnamon simple syrup lies in its incredible versatility, making it a fantastic substitute for regular simple syrup in countless drinks. The options for infusing a warming, autumnal spice into your cocktail repertoire are truly extensive. My mind immediately leaps to these delicious applications:

• Old Fashioned: Replace standard simple syrup with cinnamon simple syrup for a fall-spiced twist on this classic whiskey cocktail. It pairs beautifully with bourbon or rye.
• Moscow Mule: Add a splash to your Moscow Mule for a refreshing drink with a hint of spicy warmth, especially good with apple cider instead of ginger beer.
• Whiskey or Tequila Sours: The sweet and spicy notes of this syrup complement the tartness of citrus and the robust flavors of whiskey or tequila, creating a perfectly balanced sour.
• Hot Toddy: A natural fit! Use it to sweeten and spice up a soothing hot toddy, perfect for chilly evenings.
• Dark ‘n’ Stormy: A touch of cinnamon syrup can add an interesting layer to this rum and ginger beer cocktail.
• Manhattan: Experiment with a cinnamon-infused Manhattan for a truly sophisticated autumn drink.
• Margaritas: A dash of cinnamon can add an unexpected and delightful warmth to a classic lime margarita, especially when paired with reposado tequila.
• Sangria: Enhance red or white wine sangria with the rich flavors of cinnamon, especially when incorporating fall fruits like apples and pears.
• Champagne Cocktails: A small amount can add a festive, spiced sweetness to sparkling wine cocktails.

Don’t be afraid to experiment! If a cocktail calls for simple syrup, consider if a hint of cinnamon would enhance its flavor profile. Chances are, it will.

Beyond Drinks: Creative Ways to Use Cinnamon Simple Syrup

While this cinnamon simple syrup is a game-changer for cocktails and mocktails, its uses extend far beyond the bar cart. Its sweet, spicy, and aromatic qualities make it a fantastic addition to both beverages and culinary creations. Here are even more ways to enjoy your homemade cinnamon simple syrup:

For Your Daily Brews & Hot Drinks:

• Coffee Drinks: Elevate your morning routine! Stir a spoonful into your favorite coffee, latte, cappuccino, or iced coffee. It’s a homemade alternative to expensive coffee shop flavored syrups, giving you that warm, spiced feeling without leaving your house.
• Tea: Sweeten hot or iced tea with a touch of cinnamon syrup for a comforting beverage. Herbal teas, black teas, and chai all benefit from its warmth.
• Hot Chocolate: Transform a classic cup of hot chocolate into a luxurious, spiced treat. A dash of cinnamon simple syrup makes it extra indulgent.
• Apple Cider: Stir it into warm or cold apple cider for an extra layer of autumnal spice.

Delicious Dessert & Breakfast Toppings:

• Ice Cream: Drizzle it over vanilla bean or even pumpkin ice cream for a delightful dessert topping.
• Pancakes & Waffles: Move over maple syrup! Pour cinnamon simple syrup over your stacks of pancakes or waffles for a unique and delicious breakfast experience.
• French Toast: It’s also fantastic brushed onto French toast before serving.
• Fruit: Use it to sweeten and flavor fresh fruit salads, particularly with apples, pears, or berries. It can also be excellent over baked apples or roasted pears.
• Oatmeal & Yogurt: Stir a teaspoon into your morning oatmeal or swirl it into plain yogurt for a flavorful breakfast.

Baking & Culinary Applications:

• Cake Glaze/Soak: Add moisture and flavor to cakes! Simply brush cooled cake layers with cinnamon simple syrup before frosting them. This infusion works wonders for sponge cakes, cupcakes, or even coffee cakes, giving them an extra layer of spiced sweetness.
• Compotes & Sauces: Incorporate it into fruit compotes or dessert sauces for an added cinnamon kick.
• Candied Nuts: Use it in recipes for spiced candied nuts or roasted seeds.

The versatility is truly endless! Simply keep it chilled and reach for it whenever you want to impart a delightful cinnamon flavor to your drinks, meals, or sweet treats. It’s an ingredient that brings warmth and a touch of seasonal magic to so many different dishes.

How to Store Homemade Simple Syrup

Proper storage is essential to keep your homemade cinnamon simple syrup fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Here’s how to do it:

• Store in the Refrigerator: Once your homemade cinnamon syrup has cooled completely to room temperature, transfer it to a clean, airtight container. A glass mason jar or a bottle with a tight-fitting lid works perfectly. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Make sure to label the container with the date of preparation so you know when it was made.
• Freezing for Longer Storage: Did you know simple syrup can be frozen? This is a fantastic option if you’ve made a larger batch or want to ensure you always have some on hand. To freeze, pour the cooled syrup into ice cube trays. Once the cubes are solid, pop them out and transfer them to a freezer-safe plastic storage container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Frozen syrup cubes will keep well for up to three months. This method is also great for portion control, as you can simply grab a few cubes as needed.
• Thawing Frozen Syrup: When you’re ready to use your frozen cinnamon simple syrup, simply place the desired amount of cubes in a bowl or jar and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, use it as you would fresh syrup. You can also add frozen cubes directly to hot drinks like coffee or tea, where they will melt and sweeten simultaneously.

For those looking to explore other flavorful simple syrup recipes, be sure to check out my delicate floral lavender simple syrup recipe!

Finally, if you whip up this fantastic cinnamon simple syrup, I would absolutely love to hear about it! Please take a moment to give this recipe a rating or leave a comment below. Your feedback means the world to me, and I genuinely enjoy hearing about your experiences and seeing your creations come to life. Feel free to drop any questions you might have as well – I make an effort to respond to every single comment.

Oh, and don’t forget to tag me on Instagram (@cakenknife) if you share photos of your delicious cinnamon simple syrup or anything you’ve made with it! Seeing these recipes in your homes and kitchens is truly my favorite thing, and it brightens my day to look through your beautiful photos. Your support and engagement mean the world to me!

Cinnamon Simple Syrup Recipe Card

This easy-to-make cinnamon simple syrup is perfect for adding a cozy, warm spice flavor to all your favorite fall drinks, desserts, and coffee concoctions!

Prep Time: 2 minutes mins

Cook Time: 10 minutes mins

Additional Time: 1 hour hr

Total Time: 1 hour hr 12 minutes mins

Yields: 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 (approximately 3-4 inches each)
• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract

Instructions

• In a small saucepan, combine water and sugar over medium-high heat. Stir constantly until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture comes to a boil.
• Reduce heat to a simmer, then add the cinnamon sticks and vanilla extract, stirring to combine. Cover the saucepan and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
• Remove the saucepan from the heat, keeping it covered, and allow the mixture to steep for at least 1 hour to fully infuse the flavors. For a stronger flavor, steep longer.
• Strain the syrup into a clean, airtight container to remove the cinnamon sticks. Ensure the syrup is fully cooled before sealing. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Nutrition Information

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: Cocktail Base, Fall Flavors

Category: Booze, Syrups