This Brown Sugar Coffee Syrup is made just three simple ingredients and it pairs beautifully with hot coffee, iced lattes, cold brew, and even dessert drinks. Say goodbye to store bought syrups as this homemade version is more flavorful, budget-friendly, and customizable to your taste.

brown sugar syrup in a bottle

Reasons to Love This Brown Sugar Syrup

  • Simple ingredients: Just brown sugar, water, and a touch of vanilla.
  • Versatile use: Perfect for both hot and iced drinks.
  • Cost-effective: Much cheaper than coffee shop versions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This syrup uses basic ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry:

  • Brown sugar: Light or dark works; dark gives a deeper molasses flavor.
  • Water
  • Vanilla extract

How to Make Brown Sugar Coffee Syrup

Step 1: Combine Sugar and Water
In a small saucepan over medium / high heat, combine the brown sugar and water. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a boil.

Step 2: Simmer
Once the mixture begins to boil, reduce the heat and let it cook for 5–7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Vanilla
Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Bottle It Up
Transfer the syrup to a glass jar or squeeze bottle. Make sure to cool completely before adding a lid. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Can I double or triple the recipe?

Yes! This syrup scales up easily. Just make sure to use a larger pot and stir continuously to avoid burning.

spoonful of brown sugar

Coffee Drink Ideas Using Brown Sugar Syrup

Now that you’ve made this delicious syrup, here are a few creative ways to use it:

1. Iced Brown Sugar Latte

  • Fill a glass with ice.
  • Add 2–3 tablespoons of brown sugar syrup or to taste.
  • Pour in a double shot of espresso or strong coffee.
  • Top with your favorite milk (I love using almond milk).
  • Stir and enjoy.

2. Brown Sugar Cold Brew

  • Fill a glass with cold brew coffee.
  • Stir in 1–2 tablespoons of syrup or to taste.
  • Add ice and milk or cream, if desired.

3. Brown Sugar Chai Latte

  • Mix chai tea concentrate with steamed milk.
  • Add a spoonful of brown sugar syrup for a sweet and spicy twist.

4. Drizzle Over Whipped Cream

Use it as a topping on your coffee, pancakes, French toast, or even oatmeal!

Flavor Variations

Want to level up your syrup? Try these add-ins:

  • Cinnamon stick: Simmer with the syrup for a spiced version or add in 1 tsp of ground cinnamon
  • Pumpkin pie spice : Add ½ teaspoon for a fall-inspired flavor.
  • Maple extract: Sub for vanilla for a different sweetness profile.
  • Sea salt: A pinch of salt enhances the caramel notes beautifully.

Tips for Success

  • Don’t boil too long. Overcooking can crystallize the sugar or make it too thick.
  • Use dark brown sugar for a stronger molasses flavor.
  • Store in a sealed container to preserve freshness and flavor.
  • Shake before use – Syrup may thicken slightly in the fridge.

How to Store Brown Sugar Syrup

Store your syrup in the fridge in an airtight container mason jars or glass bottles work well. I use THESE BOTTLES FROM AMAZON! It should last for up to 2 weeks, but you’ll probably use it up faster than that!

Yield: 9oz

Brown Sugar Syrup

brown sugar syrup in a bottle
Rich and smooth, this homemade Brown Sugar Coffee Syrup adds the perfect hint of caramel sweetness to any coffee or tea. Made with just three simple ingredients, brown sugar, water, and vanilla, it’s easy to whip up in minutes and stores beautifully in the fridge. Stir it into lattes, cold brew, or drizzle over whipped cream for a cozy coffeehouse touch right at home.
Prep Time 2 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 C Brown Sugar (light or dark works, I just use whatever I have on hand)
  • 1 C Water
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract

Instructions

    In a small saucepan over medium / high heat, combine the brown sugar and water. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a boil.

    Once the mixture begins to boil, reduce the heat and let it cook for 5–7 minutes.

    Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

    Transfer the syrup to a glass jar or squeeze bottle. Make sure to cool completely before adding a lid.

Notes

Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.