Cinnamon Simple Syrup Recipe: How to Make Cinnamon Syrup

Cinnamon simple syrup includes cinnamon in a classic simple syrup recipe (equal parts sugar and water). Ground cinnamon or cinnamon sticks will impart the cinnamon flavor, although ground cinnamon results in a stronger cinnamon flavor in a shorter amount of time. While it’s possible to use all white sugar, using half white sugar and half brown sugar will produce a greater depth of flavor in the syrup.

True cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) is native to Sri Lanka (formerly Ceylon) and bears a “Ceylon cinnamon” label at some grocery stores and markets. Another type of cinnamon, cassia (Cinnamomum aromatic or Cinnamomum cassia), requires a harvest process similar to true cinnamon but has a stronger flavor.

A sweet cinnamon syrup can complement drink recipes and brunch foods alike. Here are three ways to enjoy cinnamon simple syrup:

1. 1. As a replacement for maple syrup: Drizzle cinnamon simple syrup over waffles, pancakes, and French toast in place of a classic maple syrup. The brown sugar in the cinnamon syrup will mimic a smoky maple flavor. Note simple syrup is thinner than maple syrup, but boiling it for longer thickens it.
2. 2. In an Old Fashioned cocktail: Mix cinnamon simple syrup with traditional bitters or cinnamon bitters plus water and whiskey. Then pour the mixture over ice in an Old Fashioned glass.
3. 3. To sweeten coffee: Make a sweet cinnamon roll latte by first adding cinnamon syrup to the bottom of a glass with ice. Then pour your morning coffee or espresso over it and top off the drink with whole milk. Other coffee drinks and even certain tea drinks can benefit from the addition of cinnamon simple syrup, too.