You’re about to embark on a flavorful journey with cinnamon thyme simple syrup.
This fragrant, sweet concoction is not only easy to make, but it’s also a versatile addition to your kitchen repertoire.
Whether you’re looking to spice up your morning coffee, create delectable cocktails, or bring a unique twist to your baked goods, this syrup’s got you covered.
Packed with the warm, comforting notes of cinnamon and the earthy, subtle hint of thyme, it’s a match made in culinary heaven.
And the best part? You can whip it up with just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of your time.
So, let’s get started and explore the different ways you can incorporate this delightful syrup into your drinks and dishes.
Trust us, you’ll be amazed at the depth of flavor it can add to your culinary creations.
Gathering Your Ingredients
Before we get started, you’ll need to gather your ingredients: sugar, water, fresh thyme sprigs, and of course, cinnamon sticks.
You’ll want to ensure that the sugar is pure cane sugar, as it dissolves best. As for the water, tap water will do just fine.
When it comes to the thyme, you’ll need fresh sprigs. Dried thyme just won’t give you the same vibrant flavor.
Lastly, the cinnamon sticks are essential. While ground cinnamon may seem like a convenient substitute, it won’t infuse into the syrup in the same way. Plus, using sticks will give you a more intense and complex flavor.
Now that you’ve got everything, let’s move on to the next step: making your cinnamon thyme simple syrup.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Let’s dive right into the meticulous process of crafting this aromatic infusion that promises to elevate your cocktails to new levels of complexity.
Start by taking a small saucepan and combining 1 cup of sugar with 1 cup of water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar completely dissolves.
Now, add 2 cinnamon sticks and 4 sprigs of fresh thyme.
Once everything’s in the pot, bring your mixture to a simmer. Let it bubble away for about 10 minutes, allowing the syrup to take on the full, rich flavors of the cinnamon and thyme.
After that, remove your pan from the heat and let the syrup cool. Once it’s room temperature, strain out the cinnamon and thyme.
Your cinnamon thyme simple syrup is ready to take your cocktails from ordinary to extraordinary!
Storage and Shelf Life
Storing your homemade concoction properly can make all the difference in how long it lasts and how well it retains its unique flavors. After you’ve prepared your cinnamon thyme simple syrup, let it cool completely before transferring it to a clean, airtight container. Glass jars or bottles are ideal for this.
Your syrup should be stored in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to a month. However, the fresher it is, the better it will taste. So, try to use it within two weeks.
If you notice any changes in color, smell, or taste, it’s best to discard the syrup. It’s also crucial to always use clean utensils when handling the syrup to prevent bacteria growth. Remember, food safety first, always!
Recipe Ideas for Beverages
Now that you’ve got this exquisite homemade concoction, it’s time to let your creativity fly and whip up some delightful beverages that’ll leave your taste buds dancing with joy! This syrup is your secret weapon for a host of tasty drinks.
For a refreshing non-alcoholic drink, mix a spoonful of cinnamon thyme simple syrup with iced tea or lemonade. It’s also a fantastic addition to a mug of hot apple cider, offering a warm, spicy complexity.
If you fancy a cocktail, try adding it to a bourbon or whiskey drink for a smooth, aromatic twist. Even your morning coffee can be elevated by a dash of this syrup. And don’t forget about mulled wines during the holiday season, your syrup will make them extra special.
Enjoy the delightful tastes of your creations!
Incorporating the Syrup into Baking Recipes
You’re gonna love how this sweet concoction can totally transform your baking recipes, adding an unexpected depth of flavor to your favorite desserts.
Imagine a cinnamon thyme simple syrup drizzled over warm apple pie or mixed into your favorite cake batter. The flavors of cinnamon and thyme blend perfectly to give an aromatic and warm tone to your baked goods.
Why not try incorporating it into your cookie dough? It’s simple. Just replace the regular sugar in your recipe with this syrup. The moisture from the syrup can also make your cookies extra soft and chewy.
Alternatively, consider brushing this syrup on a freshly baked loaf of bread for a sweet, herby crust. The options are endless with this syrup – it’s a game-changer in every baker’s kitchen.
CINNAMON THYME SIMPLE SYRUP
Ingredients
Cinnamon Thyme Syrup:
- 1 Cup Water
- 1 Cup Brown sugar
- 3 Cinnamon sticks
- 10 Thyme stems
- 4 Cardamom pods
For the Cocktail
- ½ oz. Cinnamon Thyme syrup
- ½ oz. Water
- 2 dashes Aromatic bitters*
- 2 oz. Bourbon or Rye whiskey
- Orange peel and cinnamon stick for garnish optional
- *If you have cardamom bitters those would be delicious as well
Instructions
To make the Cinnamon Thyme Simply Syrup:
- In a small sauce pan, combine the water and brown sugar. Bring to a boil and cook until the sugar is fully dissolved. Remove from the heat, add in the cinnamon, thyme, and cardamom and allow it to steep for 30 minutes. Pour through a small mesh sieve and discard any leftover bits.
To make the Cocktail:
- Add all of the ingredients (except the garnishes) to a shaker and stir them gently with a spoon. Pour into a rocks glass and garnish with a cinnamon stick and orange peel. Enjoy.
Conclusion
You’ve now mastered the art of making cinnamon thyme simple syrup! It’s rich and aromatic flavors will quickly become your go-to sweetener. Whether you’re stirring it into drinks or using it in your baking, it’s sure to add a unique twist to your recipes.
Remember, keep it fresh in the fridge and you’ll always have a tasty treat on hand.
Happy creating!