Vanilla Simple Syrup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract (or 1 vanilla bean)

Instructions:

Using vanilla extract:

1. In a small saucepan, combine water and sugar.
2. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until sugar dissolves completely.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Let cool, then transfer to a clean bottle or jar.
5. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Using a vanilla bean:

1. Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds.
2. Combine water, sugar, vanilla seeds, and the pod in a saucepan.
3. Heat and stir until sugar dissolves.
4. Simmer gently for 5 minutes to infuse.
5. Remove from heat, discard the pod, cool, and store as above.

Tips:

• Use in cocktails, iced coffee, lemonades, or to sweeten teas.
• Adjust sweetness by reducing or increasing sugar.
• For a richer flavor, you can simmer the syrup a bit longer (do not boil hard).