Gingerbread syrup is a seasonal concoction that captures the warm, spicy essence of traditional gingerbread cookies. It combines the earthy sweetness of molasses with the zesty punch of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg, creating a rich, comforting flavor that can sweeten everything from coffee to cocktails and pancakes to ice cream.
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All Things Gingerbread for the Holidays
Gingerbread and its sweet, spicy aromas are a symbol of holiday traditions. It creates a sense of warmth and nostalgia that captures the essence of the Christmas season. From gingerbread houses to gingerbread cookies to simple syrups like this one, this beloved flavor has been a part of holiday celebrations for centuries.
Gingerbread Cake and German Gingerbread cookies, with their distinct molasses and spice flavors, are some of my favorite holiday treats, Of course, homemade Gingerbread Truffles covered in chocolate are sure to sweeten the season too. These holiday sweets also make great gifts for neighbors and friends and delightful hostess presents during holiday gatherings.
Why This is the Best Gingerbread Syrup Recipe
Because it's easy in so many ways:
Easy to make in one pan. If you can measure ingredients and boil water you can make this syrup.
Easy to customize the flavor to your preferred taste.
Easy to make a big batch to give the syrup as a holiday gift. Just double, triple, or quadruple the ingredients.
What is simple syrup?
Simple syrup is a versatile and essential ingredient in the world of mixology and baking, and it forms the base of countless delightful beverages and desserts. As the name suggests, it's incredibly straightforward to make, consisting of just two main ingredients: sugar and water.
One of the most enticing aspects of simple syrup is its remarkable ability to serve as a blank canvas for culinary creativity. It's easy to infuse this basic syrup with a world of flavors, transforming it into a unique and personalized culinary delight. Whether you're looking to add a touch of sophistication or a burst of flavor, there are many ways to customize it:
- Citrus and Fruit - Lemon, orange, berries, peaches, and tropical fruit. See my strawberry syrup as a great example.
- Extracts and Essences - Almond, mint, and vanilla are a few options.
- Herbs and Spices - Lavender, rosemary, cinnamon, and ginger are popular ones.
- Specialty Ingredients - Coffee beans, chili peppers, or even rose petals.
Ingredients
- Brown Sugar
- Water
- Molasses
- Ground Ginger
- Ground Cinnamon
- Ground Nutmeg
- Vanilla Extract
Ingredient Substitutions and Additions
Here are some ways to customize gingerbread simple syrup:
- Add, omit, or substitute the spices. Allspice and clove are nice additions. A pinch of black pepper gives it a special accent.
- Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to give it a touch of citrus.
- Use coconut sugar, muscovado, or piloncillo sugar instead of brown sugar.
- Use pure maple syrup instead of molasses.
How to Make Gingerbread Syrup
- Place all ingredients in small saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Finished simple syrup will be dark and slightly thick with a wonderful aroma.
Let the gingerbread simple syrup cool then pour into jars and refrigerate. Check out all the gingerbread syrup uses below. Enjoy!
Gingerbread Syrup Uses
There are so many uses for gingerbread syrup! It will soon be a favorite pantry staple to have on hand, especially during the holidays. Here are some ideas:
- Cake - Add a tablespoon or two to cake batter. A great addition to yellow cake or pound cake. Or brush it on top of a freshly baked cake.
- Cocktails - Make a Gingerbread Martini or Gingerbread White Russian.
- Cookies - Add a tablespoon or two to butter or sugar cookie dough.
- Coffee and Coffee Drinks - Make a gingerbread latte, cappuccino, or frappuccino.
- Eggnog - Stir a tablespoon into a glass of eggnog.
- Hot Chocolate - Make gingerbread hot chocolate for kids of all ages.
- Ice Cream - The perfect topping for vanilla ice cream.
- Oatmeal - Give your morning oatmeal a special flavor by stirring in a tablespoon of syrup.
- Soda - Mix a tablespoon of syrup with 1 to 2 cups of soda water.
- Pancake and Waffle Syrup - Either use it as the syrup or stir some into maple syrup.
- Tea and Tea Drinks - Make a gingerbread tea latte.
How to Store
Cool the syrup to room temperature. Pour it into a glass airtight container with a lid. A mason jar works well. Store the syrup in the refrigerator. It will last up to 1 month.
If you are giving the syrup as a gift, it's advised to sterilize the jar and lid to be safe.
More Christmas and Holiday Recipes
- Christmas Crack with Graham Crackers
- Eggnog Waffles
- Peppermint Pinwheel Cookies
- Pineapple Upside Down Rum Cake
- Spiced Fruit Cake
Find lots of easy recipes for Christmas right here on 2CM!
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Gingerbread Syrup
Ingredients
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup water
- 3 Tablespoons molasses
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Place all ingredients in a small saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, stirring often, then lower heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool.
- Place in glass or mason jars and refrigerate.
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