Classic Simple Syrup

Jun 29, 2026 · By VanillaGoods

Pantry Sauces syrups glazes Vanilla: Beans Easy

A small glass bottle of classic simple syrup with a pour spout, beside an iced latte sweetened with it

This classic simple syrup is infused with real vanilla bean for a smooth, sweet, and aromatic syrup perfect for coffee, cocktails, and desserts.

Prep 5 min

Cook 10 min

Cooling 5 min

Total 20 min

Servings 12

Diet —

Ingredients

Adjust yield

servings

1.0 cup (200.0 g)granulated sugar
1.0 cup (240.0 ml)water
1.0vanilla bean, split and scraped

Make it at home

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Instructions

Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat.
Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape the seeds into the saucepan; add the pod as well.
Stir the mixture until the sugar has completely dissolved and the syrup begins to simmer.
Reduce heat to low and let the syrup gently simmer for 5 minutes to infuse the vanilla flavor.
Remove the saucepan from heat and let the syrup cool for 5 minutes with the vanilla pod still in.
Discard the vanilla pod and transfer the syrup to a clean jar or bottle.
Let the syrup cool to room temperature before sealing and storing in the refrigerator.

Tips

For stronger vanilla flavor, let the syrup steep with the pod for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator before straining.
Use pure vanilla bean for the most aromatic and natural vanilla flavor instead of vanilla extract.

Recipe FAQ

How long does it take to make classic simple syrup?

Plan on 5 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cooking, plus 5 minutes to rest. The recipe makes about 1 1/2 cups (12 servings).

How should I store classic simple syrup?

Store the syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.

Can I make classic simple syrup ahead?

Make the syrup up to 1 week in advance and keep refrigerated.

Can I use a different form of vanilla?

Yes. This recipe uses 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped. Each teaspoon of pure vanilla extract can be swapped for 1 teaspoon of vanilla bean paste, the seeds of half a vanilla bean, or 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla powder. Paste and seeds add the classic dark specks.

This classic simple syrup is infused with real vanilla bean for a smooth, sweet, and aromatic syrup perfect for coffee, cocktails, and desserts.

Estimated · per serving

Nutrition

Per serving = 1 of 12 servings this recipe makes.

64 Calories / serving

0.0g Fat

16.7g Carbs

0.0g Protein

16.7g Sugar

Whole recipe (12 servings): ~768 cal · 0g fat · 200g carbs · 0g protein · 200g sugar

Estimated values per serving, calculated from standard ingredient data. Not verified Nutrition Facts; actual values vary with brands, measurements, and preparation.

Per serving · 64 calories

What it takes to burn one serving

Brisk walking 12 min·0.7 mi·~1400 steps
Walking uphill or incline treadmill 9 min·0.5 mi·~900 steps
Moderate cycling 7 min·1.4 mi
Swimming laps 9 min
Jogging 6 min·0.5 mi·~950 steps
Stair climbing 6 min·~550 steps
Dancing 10 min
Bodyweight circuit training 7 min
Cleaning, errands, or playing with the dog 15 min

Rough estimates for one serving, based on standard MET values at about 155 lb. Your own burn depends on body size, effort, and fitness. Shown for context only — food is not something you have to earn.