Brown Sugar Cinnamon Syrup Recipe

If you love warm, cozy flavors in your drinks or desserts, this brown sugar cinnamon syrup is a quick and versatile recipe to keep on hand. It has a deep caramel-like sweetness from the brown sugar and a gentle spice from the cinnamon. Perfect for drizzling over pancakes, sweetening coffee or tea, or adding a homemade touch to baked goods.

There’s something about the combination of brown sugar and cinnamon that instantly feels like comfort. It’s the flavor of cozy mornings, baked goods straight from the oven, and that unmistakable warmth that makes ordinary drinks or dishes feel special. This brown sugar and cinnamon syrup is one of those simple recipes that takes just minutes to make, yet it transforms anything you add it to. For a fruity twist, check out my apple brown sugar syrup recipe, which brings an orchard-inspired flavor to the same cozy classic.

This syrup is one of those recipes you’ll wonder how you ever went without. It’s inexpensive, customizable, and brings a homemade touch to everyday moments, whether that’s a weekday coffee or a weekend brunch spread.

Why You’ll Love This Syrup

• Quick & easy: Only three ingredients and 10 minutes.
• Versatile: Works in drinks, desserts, or breakfast dishes.
• Better than store-bought: No additives, just pure, rich flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Water
• Brown sugar (light for mild caramel flavor, dark for deeper molasses notes)
• Cinnamon sticks (or see notes for using ground cinnamon)

How to Make Your Own Brown Sugar Cinnamon Syrup

1. In a small saucepan, add the water, brown sugar, and cinnamon sticks.
2. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar fully dissolves.
3. Lower the heat and let the syrup simmer for 15–20 minutes. It will thicken slightly and take on the flavor of the cinnamon.
4. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. Allow to cool completely, remove the cinnamon sticks, and transfer to a clean glass jar or bottle. Refrigerate.

Tips & Variations

If you don’t have cinnamon sticks on hand, ground cinnamon works as a substitute. Just simmer the mixture and strain it before bottling to keep the texture smooth. For a seasonal variation, a pinch of nutmeg or cloves can be added to the pot to lean into autumnal flavors. And if you prefer a thicker consistency, simply let the syrup simmer a few minutes longer until it reaches the consistency you like.

How to store

Once cooled, transfer the syrup to a clean jar or bottle and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to two weeks. The syrup thickens slightly when chilled, so if it feels too dense, simply warm it gently or stir in a splash of hot water to bring it back to a pourable consistency.

How to Use Brown Sugar and Cinnamon Syrup

• Stir into hot coffee, iced coffee, or tea.
• Mix into steamed milk for a cozy caffeine-free drink.
• Drizzle over pancakes, waffles, or French toast.
• Add to oatmeal, yogurt, or chia pudding.
• Brush over warm cakes or bread for a soft glaze.
• Blend into smoothies for a touch of caramelized sweetness.

This brown sugar cinnamon syrup is the kind of recipe that feels almost too easy, yet once you’ve made it, you’ll wonder how you managed without it. A spoonful here and there adds a touch of warmth to ordinary treats, whether that’s a quiet cup of coffee at your kitchen table or a weekend breakfast shared with family. It’s proof that comfort can be homemade, bottled, and waiting on the shelf whenever you need it.