Add an extra helping of cozy to the winter season with this sweet spiced Brown Sugar Cinnamon Syrup. Infused with the flavor of real cinnamon sticks, this easy cinnamon simple syrup is the perfect addition to coffee, cocktails, cocoa, and more.

Easy Brown Sugar Cinnamon Syrup

Glass oil bottle filled with brown sugar cinnamon syrup and surrounded by cinnamon sticks.

We’re big fans of making our own simple syrups around here. A basic combination of equal parts sugar and water, simple syrups are easy to make and can be infused with almost any flavor you can think of.

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Whether it’s a classic vanilla syrup, a floral lavender syrup, or sticky sweet honey syrup, homemade syrups are one of the easiest ways to add flavor to your favorite drinks.

This Brown Sugar Cinnamon Syrup is the newest syrup to be added to our at-home collection, and it’s my favorite for the cooler months. We use it in my favorite fall drink, Bourbon Apple Cider Cocktails, and to make a copy cat Starbucks Cinnamon Dolce Latte.

A gold measuring spoon holding cinnamon simple syrup.

Reasons to Love this Cinnamon Simple Syrup

Easy to make– This recipe requires just a few minutes of active prep time, then the syrup can be left alone to steep, infusing the mixture with smooth cinnamon flavor.
Makes your house smell amazing– Want your house to smell like you just baked cinnamon rolls? This syrup will get you there (and you don’t even have to turn on the oven!)
Smooth, rich flavor– Cinnamon flavored things can sometimes be overpowering, but this syrup is well balanced, smooth, and rich, thanks to the use of brown sugar.
Perfect for gifting– Add a cute tag, and this cinnamon coffee syrup becomes the easiest, cutest DIY gift for neighbors and friends!

Ingredients Needed

Measuring cup with water, teaspoon of vanilla extract, cinnamon sticks, and a cup of brown sugar.

Brown sugar– Brown sugar adds a hint of molasses to this syrup, which pairs well with the seasonal drinks we love. You can use light or dark brown sugar. Dark brown sugar will have even richer molasses under tones.
Cinnamon sticks– You’ll need whole cinnamon sticks for this recipe. Ground cinnamon won’t deliver the same flavor and will make for a grainy texture.
- Tip: Find cinnamon sticks in bulk (and for much cheaper!) at Indian grocery stores.
Vanilla– This is optional, but I think a little splash of vanilla balances the syrup without detracting from the cinnamon flavor.

How to Make Brown Sugar Cinnamon Syrup

Dissolve the sugar in water. In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, water, and cinnamon sticks over medium heat. Bring to a simmer, stirring often, and continue simmering until sugar is dissolved.
Steep. Turn off the heat and cover the pan. Allow the mixture to steep for at least one hour or up to four hours for even more flavor.
Strain and store. Strain out the cinnamon sticks, stir in the vanilla, then store in an airtight container.

Cinnamon sticks, brown sugar, and water in a saucepan.

Cinnamon syrup with cinnamon sticks in a saucepan being stirred by a wooden spoon.

Storing Simple Syrup

Cinnamon syrup should be stored in a sealed container, preferably glass. We love these pretty World Market bottles, but mason jars or old dressing bottles also work well.

Simple syrup will keep for several weeks in the fridge.

Ways to Use Cinnamon Simple Syrup

This is a really versatile recipe that can compliment so many drinks and desserts!

Try it as a sweetener in our Fall Sangria or jazz up a classic with a Cinnamon Old Fashioned.
Use cinnamon syrup in coffee and lattes, or add a bit to stove top hot chocolate for a cool weather treat.
Our kids love to make a “bubble milk” by adding cinnamon syrup to warm, frothed milk. It’s such a comforting and easy drink that still feels special.
You can also use cinnamon syrup in homemade tea lattes or even drizzled over oatmeal or pancakes!

Glass bottle filled with homemade cinnamon syrup.

More Cinnamon Recipes to Try

Can’t get enough cinnamon spice? Try these other favorites!