Old Fashioned Vanilla Simple Syrup Recipe

Simple syrup brings back fond memories of my grandmother and her stories of working at a corner soda fountain. These shops, with their sundaes and sodas crafted from homemade flavors, made even the simplest taste extraordinary. It was during this time that the unusual peanut butter and pickle sandwich made its way into our family.

Although traditional soda fountains are a thing of the past, we can still enjoy a touch of old-fashioned sweetness at home with this easy vanilla simple syrup recipe. Perfect for adding flavor to Coca-Cola, Pepsi, Orange Soda, and more, you can adjust the amount to your liking.

How to Make Simple Syrup: Ingredients and Steps

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: Makes approximately 1.5 cups of simple syrup

Ingredients for Simple Syrup

• 1 cup water
• 2 cups sugar
• 1-1.5 tsp vanilla extract

How to Make Simple Syrup

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat the Water and Sugar
   • In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the water and sugar. Stir continuously until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Add Vanilla Extract
   • Stir in the vanilla extract and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Store the Syrup
   • Once done, let it cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This syrup can last up to two months when made using this heating method. If you opt for a cold press method (combining ingredients in a jar and shaking vigorously until the sugar dissolves), the shelf life is around one month.

Old-Fashioned Vanilla Coke Recipe

1. Pour the Syrup
   • Add 2-3 teaspoons of your homemade vanilla simple syrup into a tall glass.
2. Add Ice and Soda
   • Fill the glass with ice and pour 1.5 cups of Coca-Cola over it.
3. Stir and Enjoy
   • Gently stir and enjoy your delicious, homemade vanilla Coke!

Enhance Your Home Beverages

Why not elevate your home beverage experience with this simple vanilla syrup recipe? 

Tips and FAQs

Expert Tips:

• Adjusting Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the sugar to water ratio based on your preference for sweetness.
• Storage: Always use a clean, airtight container to store your syrup to ensure it lasts longer.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use other extracts instead of vanilla? A: Yes, you can experiment with different extracts like almond or mint for varied flavors.

Q: How can I make a smaller batch? A: Simply halve the ingredients to make a smaller amount of syrup.

By following these steps, you’ll have a versatile syrup ready to add a touch of sweetness and flavor to any drink. Have you ever tried making simple syrup at home? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!