Brown Sugar Syrup

This easy Brown Sugar Syrup only requires 2 ingredients and 5 minutes to make. It has a deeper flavor compared to a traditional simple syrup and is especially delicious in coffee, but can be added to a variety of dishes.

Brown sugar syrup became extremely popular after Starbucks released their line of iced shaken espresso drinks, but it is actually so easy to make at home.

If you love copycat recipes, try my better than Sweet Cream Cold Foam, or Iced White Chocolate Mocha.

What Is Brown Sugar Syrup?

Brown sugar simple syrup is very similar to a classic simple syrup which is made with equal parts white granulated sugar and water. It is instead made with water and light or dark brown sugar.

It has a more complex flavor with notes of caramel and toffee due to the molasses in the brown sugar. It sometimes has other flavors added to it as well, such as vanilla, cinnamon, or maple syrup.

It is a very popular way to sweeten coffee drinks, like iced coffee or lattes, milk tea, or bubble tea. Many Starbucks’ drinks use this syrup as well.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This brown sugar syrup recipe has a very similar flavor to Starbucks’ brown sugar syrup without the preservatives & cost.
You only need 2 ingredients to make this recipe.
This liquid sweetener has a rich flavor with notes of toffee and caramel.
Homemade brown sugar syrup is delicious in coffee, tea, cocktails, and more. It is extremely versatile!

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredients needed to make brown sugar syrup.

Vanilla Extract: You can omit this, but I think it adds a nice flavor.

Complete list of ingredients and amounts is located on the recipe card below.

How to Make Brown Sugar Syrup

Quick Overview

Dissolve sugar & water.
Cool & add vanilla.

Step by Step Instructions

A 4 photo collage showing how to make brown sugar syrup.

The mixture should not be brought to a boil, but the sugar should be fully dissolved.

Step 1: In a small saucepan, add the brown sugar and water.

Step 2: Bring to a simmer over medium heat.

Step 3: Cook and stir until all of the sugar is dissolved.

Step 4: Remove from heat and cool completely at room temperature.

Recipe Serving Suggestions

This syrup is extremely versatile, from coffee & tea to desserts, it is absolutely incredible in/on so many things. Here are some ideas:

Expert Tips & Variations

Do not boil. The syrup should still be pretty thin once cooled. If overheated, it will turn into caramel. For a thicker syrup, cook for an additional 5-7 minutes.
Add cinnamon. Add a cinnamon stick while the syrup simmers to infuse more flavor.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container, bottle, or jar in the fridge for 3-4 weeks.

Recipe FAQs

Is brown sugar syrup the same as brown sugar?

No, it is more like a simple syrup because it has water.

Is Starbucks brown sugar a syrup?

Yes. Starbucks uses a syrup.

How do you melt brown sugar in a liquid?

Sugar will melt when heated by itself. You can melt it into water.

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