This homemade vanilla simple syrup has a rich vanilla flavor and smooth sweetness that blends easily into hot or cold drinks. Made with vanilla bean paste, it comes together in minutes and is perfect for coffee, tea, cocktails, desserts, and brushing over cake layers.
Combine the water and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is completely dissolved, about 3 minutes. Do not let the syrup boil.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in the vanilla bean paste until evenly combined.
Let the syrup cool completely, then transfer it to a clean glass jar or bottle with a tight-fitting lid.
Refrigerate until ready to use. The syrup will keep for up to 1 month in the refrigerator.
Notes
Heat the syrup only until the sugar has dissolved. Avoid boiling, which can reduce the yield and make the syrup thicker than intended.
Whisk the vanilla bean paste into the hot syrup after removing the saucepan from the heat to preserve its rich flavor.
The vanilla bean specks naturally settle during storage. Give the bottle or jar a gentle shake before each use to redistribute them.
Double or triple the recipe if you use vanilla simple syrup often. It keeps well in the refrigerator for drinks, desserts, and baking.