Are you ready to take your cocktails to the next level? Forget those sugary, artificial-tasting syrups! This homemade cinnamon simple syrup is incredibly easy to make, bursting with warm spice, and will transform your favorite drinks from ordinary to extraordinary. It's the perfect addition to your home bar, adding a touch of sophistication and delicious flavor to everything from classic cocktails to hot beverages. This recipe is perfect for both beginner and experienced mixologists, offering a quick and easy way to elevate your homemade cooking skills.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 2 cinnamon sticks (or 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon)
Instructions:
Step 1: Combine and Simmer
In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Place the cinnamon sticks (or ground cinnamon) into the mixture. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Step 2: Reduce and Cool
Reduce the heat to low and let the syrup simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the cinnamon flavors to infuse beautifully. Don't boil it rapidly; a gentle simmer is key for the best results.
Step 3: Strain and Store
Remove the saucepan from the heat and carefully strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean jar or container. This removes the cinnamon sticks, leaving you with a smooth, flavorful syrup. Let the syrup cool completely before storing.
Step 4: Enjoy!
Your homemade cinnamon simple syrup is now ready to use! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Tips for the Best Cinnamon Simple Syrup:
- Cinnamon Variety: Experiment with different types of cinnamon for varying flavor profiles. Ceylon cinnamon offers a milder, sweeter taste, while Cassia cinnamon provides a stronger, more pungent flavor.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet syrup, reduce the amount of sugar slightly. Conversely, for a richer, sweeter syrup, increase the sugar by a tablespoon or two.
- Infusion Time: For a more intense cinnamon flavor, let the syrup simmer for a longer time, up to 10 minutes, or even let it infuse overnight in the refrigerator after simmering.
- Other Spices: Feel free to experiment with other spices! Star anise, cloves, or cardamom can create unique and delicious flavor combinations.
Variations:
- Vanilla Cinnamon Syrup: Add 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped, along with the cinnamon sticks for a warm, vanilla-cinnamon blend.
- Spiced Apple Cinnamon Syrup: Add 1/2 cup thinly sliced apples to the simmering syrup for an autumnal twist.
Nutritional Information (per tablespoon, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 45-50
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 12-13g
- Sugar: Approximately 11-12g
This delicious and versatile cinnamon simple syrup is a game-changer for your cocktail creations. It's a fantastic addition to your arsenal of homemade cooking ingredients, perfect for adding a sophisticated touch to classic cocktails, mocktails, coffee, tea, and even desserts! Enjoy the delightful warmth and spice it brings to your culinary adventures.