Brown sugar syrup is made by heating brown sugar and water until the sugar dissolves. Use equal parts brown sugar and water for a pourable syrup, or use two parts sugar to one part water for a thicker, richer syrup. It works in coffee, tea, cocktails, pancakes, oatmeal, desserts, and marinades.
Basic Ratio
| Style | Brown sugar | Water | Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular syrup | 1 cup | 1 cup | Coffee, tea, cocktails, light dessert drizzle |
| Rich syrup | 2 cups | 1 cup | Pancakes, stronger cocktails, thicker drizzle |
| Small batch | 1/2 cup | 1/2 cup | One small jar for the refrigerator |
How to Make It
- Add brown sugar and water to a small saucepan.
- Warm over medium-low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Simmer gently for 1 to 2 minutes if you want a slightly thicker syrup.
- Remove from heat and add optional flavorings.
- Cool, then transfer to a clean covered jar and refrigerate.
Flavor Options
- Vanilla: add vanilla extract after the syrup comes off heat.
- Cinnamon: simmer with a cinnamon stick, then remove it.
- Salt: add a small pinch to make the molasses flavor taste deeper.
- Orange peel: simmer briefly for a citrus note.
- Maple-style: add a little maple extract after heating.
How to Use Brown Sugar Syrup
Stir it into iced coffee, hot coffee, tea, milk drinks, old fashioned-style cocktails, lemonade, oatmeal, yogurt bowls, pancakes, waffles, pound cake, fruit, or roasted sweet potatoes. Start with a small amount because the molasses flavor can become strong quickly.
Storage
Cool the syrup before covering, use a clean jar, and refrigerate it. Discard the syrup if it becomes moldy, fizzy, cloudy in an unusual way, smells fermented, or has an unknown storage history. Homemade flavored syrups vary, so use smaller batches if you do not use syrup often.
FAQ
What is the ratio for brown sugar syrup?
Use 1 part brown sugar to 1 part water for regular syrup. Use 2 parts brown sugar to 1 part water for a richer syrup.
Do you have to boil brown sugar syrup?
No. Heat it enough to dissolve the sugar. A short gentle simmer can make it slightly thicker.
Can I use dark brown sugar?
Yes. Dark brown sugar gives a stronger molasses flavor than light brown sugar.
Why is my brown sugar syrup grainy?
The sugar may not be fully dissolved, or crystals may have formed on the pan. Warm it gently and stir until smooth.
Does brown sugar syrup need refrigeration?
Yes. Refrigerate homemade brown sugar syrup in a clean covered container and discard it if it shows spoilage signs.