Homemade Vanilla Bean Simple Syrup
Using a real vanilla bean to create this homemade Vanilla Simple Syrup introduces a warm, sweet flavor that far surpasses anything you’ll find in stores. Perfect for spicing up your favorite coffee or cocktail!
After spending too much on iced vanilla lattes from coffee shops, I decided it was high time to whip up my own batch at home. My first attempt involved a well-known vanilla syrup from the supermarket. While it was decent, it lacked the richness I craved. With my background as a pastry chef, I knew that using a real vanilla bean would elevate the flavor dramatically, and it absolutely did!
To test my vanilla syrup against the store-bought version, I invited a couple of friends over. I had them try both syrups in a blind taste test, and let’s just say my homemade syrup won by a landslide! The difference between the authentic, luscious vanilla and the overly sweet, artificial taste of its counterpart was undeniable.
Why Make This Recipe
- So Easy: Only three ingredients, plus a few minutes of simmering!
- Deep, Complex Flavor: A delightful taste that far exceeds commercial syrups.
- Versatile: Great in lattes and cold brews, but also shines in cocktails!
🥗 Ingredients
- Vanilla Bean: Choose Madagascar for a creamy sweetness or Tahitian for a more floral taste. Yes, they can be pricey, but they are worth every penny for quality!
- Sugar: Regular granulated sugar is perfect for this syrup.
🥣 Step-by-Step Instructions for Vanilla Bean Syrup
1. Prepare the Vanilla Bean
Cut the vanilla bean in half lengthwise. Use a paring knife to gently scrape out the seeds. Set both the seeds and pod aside.
2. Combine Sugar and Water
In a small saucepan, combine ½ cup of sugar and ½ cup of water. Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently until the sugar fully dissolves.
3. Add the Vanilla
Once the sugar has dissolved, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in both the scraped seeds and the pod of the vanilla bean.
4. Mix Well
Use a spatula to press any clumps of vanilla seeds, ensuring they mix well into the syrup.
5. Cool and Store
Allow the syrup to cool completely. After cooling, remove the vanilla pod and pour the syrup into a jar.
Storage Tips
Store your vanilla syrup in a small mason jar or an airtight bottle in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3 to 4 weeks.
🧐 Recipe FAQs for Vanilla Bean Simple Syrup
Absolutely! However, using a bean will offer a much richer flavor. If you opt for extract, use 1 to 1½ teaspoons and stir it in after the syrup has cooled.
Yes, just maintain the same 1:1 ratio of sugar to water and use two vanilla beans for maximum flavor.
Definitely. Despite being sugar-heavy, it’s best kept in the fridge to preserve freshness for about 3–4 weeks.
Rinse and dry them, then keep them in a jar filled with sugar to create homemade vanilla sugar!
👩🍳 Expert Tips
If you don’t have a vanilla bean, consider using vanilla bean paste instead. Add 1 tablespoon of paste to the syrup once it’s been removed from the heat!
Note that over time, seeds will settle at the bottom. Just give the jar a good shake before using.
What to Make with Homemade Vanilla Syrup
This syrup is a game-changer for lattes, whether hot or iced. I also love using it in cold brews, especially with oat milk — it’s simply divine! But don’t limit yourself; this syrup is fantastic for brushing over cakes to infuse flavor and moisture. It also shines in cocktails like Espresso Martinis or White Russians.
Other Syrup and Drink Recipes
If you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at making more syrups or drinks! Creating unique, homemade beverages can be a delightful experience.
Recipe FAQs
Yes, but you get a much deeper vanilla flavor by using the bean. Use 1 to 1½ teaspoons of pure vanilla extract.
Absolutely—just keep the same 1:1 ratio of sugar to water and use two vanilla beans.
Yes. Despite its high sugar content, it’s best kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 weeks.
Rinse and dry the pods to make vanilla sugar by placing them in a jar of sugar.
