Cinnamon Simple Syrup

Cinnamon simple syrup is an incredibly versatile simple syrup. It can be used in many shaken drinks and also in some stirred drinks, like the Old Fashioned. This is a common simple syrup in my fridge and I highly recommend making a batch often. 

• 1 cup Demerara sugar

• 1 cup water

• 6 cinnamon sticks (3-4 inches long)

• pinch salt

Add your sugar, salt and water to a pot on the stove at medium-high heat. Stir to start the sugar dissolving process. Once the water starts to simmer, lower the heat to medium-low and add your cinnamon sticks. Continue to stir until all the sugar is dissolved. Lower the heat to low and let the cinnamon infuse for another 5 to 10 minutes without letting the sugar burn. Take the pot off the burner and let cool. Taste your syrup every hour until it reaches the desired taste. You can infused over night (8 hrs), if needed. Next, discard cinnamon sticks and strain the syrup into an air-tight container. Store in the refrigerator for 10 days.

Makes about 8 oz or 1 cup. 

Substitutions:

Demerara sugar: Superfine white sugar can be used instead. I prefer using Demerara or Turbinado sugar for most of my simple syrups as it adds more depth and flavor than the flavorless superfine sugar syrups. 

Cinnamon sticks: You can also crush the sticks to release more flavor or lightly toast the sticks for a "burnt" flavor. Canela cinnamon imparts the best flavor.