Dutch Honey Syrup Recipe
Few things bring comfort to your breakfast table quite like a silky-smooth Dutch Honey Syrup. This luscious, buttery concoction is pure magic poured over pancakes, waffles, biscuits, or anything deserving a sweet, golden hug. The blend of real butter, cream, and a duo of vanilla and almond extract gives this syrup irresistible richness—just the right balance of sweet and creamy, with a hint of nutty sophistication. If you’re ready to steal the breakfast show, Dutch Honey Syrup may just become your new weekend tradition.

Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best parts about Dutch Honey Syrup is its short ingredient list—each item is a kitchen staple, but together they create something that feels special and decadent. Every element serves a purpose, working in harmony to bring the perfect consistency and flavor to your homemade syrup.
- Unsalted Butter: The base of the syrup, butter gives a luxurious mouthfeel and depth of flavor.
- Sugar: Classic sweetness comes from granulated sugar, helping the syrup thicken and become perfectly pourable.
- Heavy Cream: Adds creaminess and rich body, transforming the texture from thin to dreamy and velvety.
- Kosher Salt: Just a pinch awakens all the flavors and keeps the syrup from tasting overly sweet.
- Vanilla Extract: The backbone of aroma and warmth, vanilla balances out the sweet creaminess.
- Almond Extract: A little goes a long way, giving the Dutch Honey Syrup a light, nutty essence that’s simply irresistible.
How to Make Dutch Honey Syrup
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Start by placing your unsalted butter in a medium saucepan. Set the heat to low and let it gently melt down without rushing the process. This step doesn’t just prevent burning; it also starts building the rich, indulgent base that makes Dutch Honey Syrup so special. Stir occasionally until the butter is fully liquefied and golden.
Step 2: Add Sugar, Cream, and Salt
With your butter melted, it’s time to invite the sugar, heavy cream, and a touch of kosher salt into the pan. Stir or whisk as you go so the sugar begins to dissolve and everything blends smoothly. The salt may seem minimal, but it really brings out the balance—and stops the syrup from tipping into cloying territory.
Step 3: Simmer and Thicken
Increase the heat slightly to medium, and bring the mixture just to a gentle boil. As soon as you see those first bubbles, reduce the heat back to low and let the syrup simmer. In about 5 minutes, you’ll notice it thickening and turning glossy—the secret to that silky spoonful that makes Dutch Honey Syrup such a treat. Stir occasionally so nothing scorches on the bottom.
Step 4: Add the Extracts
Take the saucepan off the heat and allow the syrup to cool just a bit, about 2–3 minutes. Now, stir in both vanilla and almond extracts. This short cooling period helps preserve those delicate aromas, giving your Dutch Honey Syrup a layered, sensational finish. Whisk well and get ready to pour it over everything!
How to Serve Dutch Honey Syrup

Garnishes
Fresh fruit, like sliced strawberries or blueberries, make a colorful companion to Dutch Honey Syrup, while a dusting of powdered sugar or a few toasted almond slivers take things from everyday to extraordinary. A tiny sprinkle of sea salt on top can also enhance the caramel undertones for those who love a sweet-and-salty finish.
Side Dishes
This syrup deserves center stage alongside stacks of pancakes, waffles, or pillowy French toast. Try spooning it over warm biscuits, cornbread, or even a slice of banana bread. For a brunch spread, Dutch Honey Syrup pairs beautifully with crispy bacon or sausage for that dreamy savory-sweet combo.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, drizzle Dutch Honey Syrup in a zigzag over crepes, or serve it in little jars at each place setting with a ribbon tied around the top. For a fun breakfast-for-dinner idea, swirl it into Greek yogurt and layer with granola and fruit for parfaits. You might even invent your own signature twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Dutch Honey Syrup stores beautifully in a glass jar or airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to avoid condensation and preserve its perfect texture.
Freezing
If you want to make a batch ahead, Dutch Honey Syrup can be frozen! Pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some room for expansion. It will keep for two to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
To bring back that rich, pourable consistency, reheat Dutch Honey Syrup gently in a saucepan over low heat, or zap it in short bursts in the microwave, stirring each time. If it separates slightly, just whisk until smooth and it’s ready to go!
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can substitute salted butter if that’s what you have on hand, but consider reducing or omitting the added kosher salt so your Dutch Honey Syrup doesn’t come out too salty. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly!
Is there a way to make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap the butter for a non-dairy alternative like coconut or vegan butter, and trade the heavy cream for coconut cream or a rich, plant-based milk. The result won’t taste exactly the same, but it will still be a deliciously creamy Dutch Honey Syrup.
Can I double or halve the recipe?
Definitely. Dutch Honey Syrup is very flexible—just keep the ratios the same and use a larger or smaller saucepan as needed. Your simmer time might change slightly, so keep an eye out and pull off the heat once it’s thickened nicely.
What if my syrup turns out too thin?
If your Dutch Honey Syrup is thinner than you’d like, simply return it to low heat and simmer a few more minutes, stirring often. It will thicken as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a bit runny right off the stove.
Can I use other extracts or flavorings?
Of course! Try hazelnut, maple, orange, or even a touch of cinnamon for a new twist on your Dutch Honey Syrup. Just be sure to start with a small amount—extracts are potent and go a long way.
Final Thoughts
Honestly, once you’ve made Dutch Honey Syrup from scratch, you’ll wonder how you ever settled for the store-bought stuff. It brings a luxurious, homemade touch to everything it touches. Give it a try and let it become your signature treat—breakfast is about to get a whole lot sweeter!
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Dutch Honey Syrup Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 1/2 cups 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich, sweet goodness of Dutch Honey Syrup, a decadent treat perfect for drizzling over pancakes, waffles, or ice cream. This easy-to-make syrup is a delightful addition to your breakfast or dessert table.
Ingredients
For the Dutch Honey Syrup:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
Instructions
- Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter.
- Mix Ingredients: Stir in sugar, cream, and salt. Raise the heat to medium and bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat and simmer gently for about 5 minutes until the syrup thickens.
- Add Extracts: Remove from heat. Cool slightly, then stir in vanilla and almond extracts.
- Serve: Enjoy the Dutch Honey Syrup drizzled over your favorite dishes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Syrup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Dutch
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tbsp
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Dutch Honey Syrup, Syrup Recipe, Sweet Treat, Breakfast Syrup