Syrups should support the coffee, not bury it. Keep recipes simple, scale small, and taste as you go.
Base Formulas
- Classic: 1:1 sugar:water (by weight), simmer to dissolve.
- Rich: 2:1 for body in iced drinks.
- Honey: 1:1 honey:hot water; strain.
Flavor Ideas
- Vanilla: add paste/bean; steep 10 minutes; strain.
- Caramel: dry sugar to amber, deglaze with hot water; finish with pinch of salt.
- Spiced: cinnamon stick, clove, orange peel; remove before bottling.
- Seasonal: maple-pecan, gingerbread, lavender.
Use and Storage
- Keep in sterilized bottles; refrigerate.
- 1:1 lasts ~2 weeks; 2:1 ~1 month.
- Start with 4–6% syrup by total drink weight; adjust.
Pairings
- Bright coffees with citrus or vanilla; chocolatey coffees with caramel or spice.
- Try with: Iced Coffee Recipes and Coffee Cocktails.
Keep Exploring
- Concentrates: Cold Brew Complete Guide
- Beans that shine: Best Coffee Beans