Following the holiday season, everyone’s pockets might feel a little lighter than usual.  we all feel the need to cut back on some unnecessary expenses. The every day, “treat yourself coffee” we all know and love is one way to save a couple of bucks. Making flavored syrups at home is so easy and cost-effective. I have come to love my morning coffee routine, which has been upgraded entirely by the addition of my own flavored coffee syrups. These recipes take less than 5 minutes from start to finish and can elevate any cup of homemade coffee or tea. 

Recipe Base:

½  cup water

¼  cup sugar

For Caramel Brulee- 

Use brown sugar, add ½ cup of sweetened condensed milk, 1 tbsp vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt

Gingerbread-

Use brown sugar instead of white sugar. 2 tbsp molasses, 1tsp ground ginger, ½ tsp cinnamon, pinch of nutmeg, and ½ tsp vanilla extract

Peppermint Mocha- 

You will want to double the amount of sugar so, ½ cup of sugar, add 1 tbsp of cocoa powder, and ¼ tsp of peppermint extract.

Instructions: 

For each recipe start with adding the water and sugar to a saucepan and cook over medium heat. Stir frequently until all the sugar has dissolved. Once no sugar crystals are left, add the remaining ingredients and continue to stir until everything is combined. You can use the syrup immediately and store the rest in airtight containers for around one month in the refrigerator. Before storing, allow the mixture to cool completely on the stove, and then transfer the syrup to jars or containers of your choice. 

How to use:

How much to use of each syrup is entirely up to your preferences, but usually, about 1-2 tablespoons should be just the right amount for one average-size coffee. If you feel like elevating your everyday coffee routine, you could make a cold foam to top your coffee creation. Just combine one tablespoon of your syrup of choice and combine that with about a quarter cup of heavy whipping cream. Use a milk frother or whisk and whip together until the mixture becomes thick. You can then top any iced coffee with this thick and sweet foam. The possibilities are truly endless.

Let’s all start the New Year off right with some budgeting and self-care. These syrup recipes are entirely customizable and the perfect way to spice up your normal coffee routine. There is nothing wrong with a “treat yourself” coffee, but it is just as easy to treat yourself at home with just a few additional steps to your normal morning brew.