Orange spice simple syrup is a versatile sweetener with a citrusy flavour. Made with fresh orange, cinnamon, cloves, and a hint of vanilla, this easy syrup adds citrus flavour to everything from tea and coffee to cocktails and baked goods.

I like to make a batch to have on hand for holiday drinks. It also tastes great in lattes, tea, coffee, and even on cereals and ice cream. This homemade syrup can be made in about 20 minutes using simple pantry ingredients.

Once you’ve made a batch, you’ll find countless ways to use it whenever you are craving a sweet, citrusy flavour.

What Is Orange Spice Simple Syrup?

Simple syrup is made by dissolving equal parts sugar and water together. Adding fresh orange peel, juice, and spices transforms the basic syrup into a rich, fragrant sweetener that’s perfect for drinks and desserts.

Why You’ll Love This Orange Spice Simple Syrup

• This quick and easy recipe is ready in under 30 minutes.
• It’s naturally flavoured with fresh oranges and spices.
• This syrup is perfect for tea, coffee, cocktails, and mocktails.
• It makes thoughtful homemade gifts for any occasion.
• Orange spic syrup stores well in the refrigerator.
• Easy to customize with your favourite spices.

Ingredients

1 cup water

1 cup granulated sugar

Zest of 2 large oranges

¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice

2 cinnamon sticks

4 whole cloves

1 star anise (optional)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Orange Spice Simple Syrup

1. Combine the water and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Stir until the sugar has completely dissolved.
3. Add the orange zest, orange juice, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise if using.
4. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes until fragrant.
6. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
7. Allow the syrup to cool for about 15 minutes before straining it through a fine-mesh sieve.
8. Pour into a clean glass bottle or mason jar and refrigerate.

Tips for the Best Orange Spice Syrup

• Use fresh oranges for the best flavour.
• Avoid simmering too vigorously, which can dull the citrus flavour.
• Leave the spices in a little longer after removing from the heat if you’d like a stronger spice flavour.
• Wash oranges well before zesting.
• Store in sterilized bottles for the longest shelf life.

Variations

Cranberry Orange Spice Syrup

Add ½ cup fresh cranberries while simmering for a holiday flavour.

Ginger Orange Syrup

Include several slices of fresh ginger for a spicy kick.

Maple Orange Spice Syrup

Replace half of the sugar with pure maple syrup for a richer flavour.

Honey Orange Spice Syrup

Substitute part of the sugar with honey after removing the syrup from the heat.

Rosemary Orange Syrup

Add a fresh sprig of rosemary while it simmers for an earthy, herbal flavour.

Ways to Use Orange Spice Simple Syrup

One of the best things about this syrup is its versatility.

Try it in:

• Hot tea
• Herbal tea
• Coffee
• Lattes
• Homemade lemonade
• Sparkling water
• Mocktails
• Cocktails
• Hot chocolate
• Mulled cider
• Pancakes
• Waffles
• French toast
• Yogurt
• Oatmeal
• Ice cream
• Cheesecake
• Fruit salad

Storage

Store the syrup in a sealed glass container in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.

If you notice any cloudiness, mould, or off odours, discard the syrup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze orange spice simple syrup?

Yes. Freeze in ice cube trays and transfer the cubes to freezer bags. They’ll keep for several months.

Can I make it less sweet?

You can reduce the sugar slightly, but keep in mind that sugar helps preserve the syrup. A lower sugar content may shorten its shelf life.

Can I use brown sugar?

Absolutely. Brown sugar creates a deeper caramel flavour that’s especially delicious in coffee and fall drinks.

Can I use blood oranges?

Yes. Blood oranges produce a beautiful ruby-colored syrup with a slightly richer citrus flavour.

Can I use this for cocktails?

Definitely, orange spice syrup goes well with bourbon, whiskey, rum, gin, vodka, and sparkling wine, as well as non-alcoholic mocktails.