Caramel Syrup

There’s something undeniably magical about the rich, buttery flavor of caramel syrup. Whether it’s drizzled over a warm slice of cake, swirled into your morning coffee or used as a dip for fresh fruit, this silky syrup—not to be confused with caramel sauce—will elevate any treat to a new level of indulgence.

And making it at home is easier than you might think! With just three simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a velvety syrup that rivals any store-bought version. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this deliciously simple caramel syrup recipe that will add a touch of sweetness anywhere you want it.

Ingredients for Caramel Syrup

• Sugar and water: One of our favorite homemade sweeteners, caramel syrup requires only sugar and water, plus a little vanilla extract, to convert into a luscious syrup once cooked.
• Vanilla extract: We include this fragrant extract to give the syrup a deeper, richer flavor.

Directions

Step 1: Cook the sugar and water

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Place the sugar and 1/2 cup of the water in a small saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Once it’s bubbling slightly, continue to cook, without stirring, for another 8 to 10 minutes or until the mixture becomes a light amber color.

Step 2: Add the vanilla

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Remove the pan from the heat. Slowly and carefully whisk in the remaining 1/2 cup of water and the vanilla extract until it’s incorporated and a silky syrup has formed.

Step 3: Let it cool

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Let the syrup cool, then transfer it to a sealed jar or an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

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Caramel Syrup Variations

• Swap the sugar for stevia: To make a low-carb or keto syrup, use stevia with another of the sugar alternatives like erythritol or allulose, since stevia won’t caramelize on its own.
• Make it creamy: For a creamier syrup, add 3/4 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of butter to the mixture when simmering it.
• Double the recipe: This is one you want to pre-batch and make an extra jar of so you have plenty of caramel syrup around when you want it.

How to Store Caramel Syrup

How long does homemade caramel syrup last?

If it’s stored properly in an airtight jar or container, this homemade syrup can last about two weeks in a cabinet, up to a month in the fridge or up to a year in the freezer.

Can you reheat caramel syrup?

You bet! If your syrup is frozen, you’ll want to defrost it in the fridge overnight, then pop it in the microwave for a minute or two, stirring at the halfway point. You can also reheat cold syrup on the stove in a saucepan over low heat, being careful not to let it boil or burn.

Caramel Syrup Tips

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What is caramel syrup made of?

All you need to make a quick amber-hued syrup is water, sugar and vanilla extract.

What’s the difference between caramel syrup and caramel sauce?

Caramel syrup is thinner than caramel sauce and is traditionally used for flavoring drinks, like coffee and cocktails. Caramel sauce has a thicker consistency and is divine spooned over ice cream, apple pie and flan.

What else can it be used for?

Add a decadent drizzle to ice cream wafflewiches, caramel apple floats, RumChata cheesecake and homemade frappuccinos. And if you’re craving all things caramel, try one of these gooey caramel desserts next.