Vanilla Butter Syrup Recipe (Dutch Honey) (2024)

Dutch Honey Syrup is a family tradition on my maternal side. An easy homemade syrup recipe, that we’ve always referred to as Dutch Honey, but is more commonly called Vanilla Butter Syrup, blonde butter syrup, vanilla butter syrup, buttermilk syrup, cream syrup and sometimes just vanilla syrup.

Vanilla Butter Syrup Recipe (Dutch Honey) (1)

It’s funny because it doesn’t contain honey or buttermilk… it also almost the same as maple cream, but no maple.

The only thing I can tell you with 100% certainty is that you and your family will soon start to crave it. It is that good. It is an an easy sweet syrup for fluffy pancakes, waffles, French toast, German pancakes, biscuits or even vanilla ice cream! I also use it as a simple syrup between cake layers or for poke cakes.

While I generally reserve it for special occassions, it is a great option when real maple syrup isn’t available (or you just ran out!) for your favorite pancakes.

Vanilla Butter Syrup Recipe (Dutch Honey) (2)

What You’ll Need

Basic ingredients combine to make the ultimate of sweet sauces.

  • White sugar– We use white in our version, but another fun variation is to use light brown sugar or dark brown sugar and get molasses undertones.
  • Heavy cream- On the actual handwritten recipe card, it states to use table cream. Heavy cream or heavy whipping cream (there is a slight difference in fat content) can be used.
  • Salted butter – Salt in this case helps brighten the other flavors. If using unsalted butter, add just a dash of coarse Kosher salt.
  • Vanilla extract– Provides flavor. The higher quality the extract, the more robust flavor. If you want a really intense, next level vanilla flavor, try using vanilla bean paste.
  • Baking Soda– This is something I’ve started to add over the years, but isn’t in the original recipe. The reaction between the acid and the baking soda creates tiny air pockets resulting in asoft velvety syrup that won’t get too dense when cooled. A small quality won’t impact the flavor.

Some recipes use light corn syrup, but ours just melts white sugar.

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How to Make Vanilla Butter Syrup

Making this sauce is super easy! You can make it ahead of time and it is also freezer friendly.

  1. Use a heavy bottom saucepan for best consistent and controlled heat. Combine the sugar, cream, butter and vanilla extract.
  2. Heat to medium heat, stirring with a wooden spoon. Using a wooden spoon prevents sticking. Keep an eye on it- dairy and sugar based sauces have the tendency to boil over fast if not kept at a low, steady heat. Heat until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Reduce a simmer and continue to stir until it thickens, 5-10 minutes. The mixture will thicken further when cool, so just make sure it coats the back of your wooden spoon.
  4. Right before removing from the heat, stir in the baking soda, making sure it incorporates well.
  5. Pour hot syrup over your favorite sweet breakfast foods.
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Storage

Vanilla butter syrup can be served warm right off the stove or made ahead. Store any syrup you intend to eat that week in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature to serve.

It can also be frozen in an airtight container, jarred or canned. Although I am not an expert canning, so I will not pretend to give you those instructions. Here is a great tutorial.

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Variations

Combine with fresh fruits or use any extract in place of vanilla to give it your own edge. Almond extract, lemon or even maple extract make for fun customizations.

A couple of my other favorite homemade syrup recipes are Homemade Blueberry Syrup, Apple Cider and also Cranberry Syrup.

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What to Serve with Vanilla Butter Syrup

  • Blueberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake
  • English Scones
  • Classic Waffles with 13 Variations
  • Raspberry White Chocolate Pancakes
  • Ricotta Blueberry Pancakes

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Vanilla Butter Syrup Recipe (Dutch Honey) (10)

Dutch Honey Syrup (Vanilla Butter Syrup Recipe)

4.29 from 104 votes

Dutch Honey Syrup Recipe is an easy homemade syrup for pancakes, waffles, French toast, biscuits or even vanilla ice cream!

Cook Time: 15 minutes mins

Total Time: 15 minutes mins

Servings: 12

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup salted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda

Instructions

  • In a heavy bottom saucepan, combine the sugar, cream, butter and vanilla extract.

  • Heat to a low boil, stirring with a wooden spoon.

  • Reduce to simmer and continue to stir until it thickens (about 5-10 minutes). Right before removing from the heat, stir in the baking soda until dissolved.

  • Serve immediately or allow to cool and refrigerate.

  • Did you try it? Let us know how it went in the comments section or star ratings!

Video

Notes

It will stay refrigerated for about a week. It also freezes well.

Nutrition

Calories: 201 kcal, Carbohydrates: 17 g, Fat: 15 g, Saturated Fat: 9 g, Cholesterol: 47 mg, Sodium: 8 mg, Potassium: 14 mg, Sugar: 16 g, Vitamin A: 530 IU, Vitamin C: 0.1 mg, Calcium: 15 mg

Author: Jessica Formicola

Calories: 201

Course: Breakfast, Condiment, Sauce

Cuisine: American

Keyword: cream syrup, dutch honey, homemade syrup, vanilla syrup

Did you make this recipe?I’d love to see your recipes – snap a picture and mention @savoryexperiments or tag #savoryexperiments!

Vanilla Butter Syrup Recipe (Dutch Honey) (2024)

FAQs

How to store dutch honey? ›

The best way to preserve honey is to store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Heat and moisture can cause honey to ferment or spoil, so it's important to avoid exposing it to these conditions. It's also important to keep your honey in an airtight container.

How long does homemade honey syrup last? ›

Add the honey and water into a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the honey is dissolved. Allow to cool and transfer to an airtight container. Syrup will keep, refrigerated, for up to 1 month.

What is a substitute for vanilla syrup? ›

The easiest substitution is to make a batch of simple syrup and add a teaspoon or so of vanilla extract. The flavor can be a bit strong if you use too much extract, so only add a little at a time, to taste. You'll have the best results if you use real vanilla extract, rather than imitation.

Can I use maple syrup instead of vanilla syrup? ›

5. Maple syrup. Many people like to use maple syrup as a replacement for vanilla, using 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of syrup for each 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of extract. To some, the scent and the hint of sweetness from maple syrup are reminiscent of vanilla.

Does honey go bad if not refrigerated? ›

No, honey does not go bad. Because honey has a low water content and high acidity, it's an unfriendly place for bacteria to thrive. As long as the lid stays on and the honey stays free of added moisture, honey can be stored in the cupboard indefinitely.

Can honey go bad? ›

No, even opened honey doesn't expire. Per U.S. Department of Agriculture guidelines, honey will remain safe to eat even after the quality of the honey declines.

How to tell if honey syrup has gone bad? ›

This is the same reason why honey never expires; bacteria have a hard time growing in these high-sugar, low-moisture environments. But one difference between honey and syrup is that syrup can get moldy after the container's been opened. This is because it has been exposed to mold spores in the air.

Is honey healthier than sugar? ›

People often consider honey to be healthier than sugar, but it depends on the use. Like sugar, honey is high in carbs, can raise blood sugar levels, and is high in calories. Both honey and sugar add sweetness to meals and snacks. However, they have different tastes, textures, and nutritional profiles.

What's the difference between honey and honey syrup? ›

Honey syrup can be used in co*cktails, coffee beverages, and as a substitution for classic simple syrup. Honey syrup is made from honey and water, resulting in a thinner syrup that is easier to pour than honey alone. If you love the taste of honey, this is a great syrup to keep on hand in your fridge!

Which is better French vanilla or vanilla syrup? ›

While both French vanilla and vanilla syrup add a sweet vanilla flavor to beverages, they have distinct flavor profiles. French vanilla syrup is richer and creamier, while vanilla syrup is more straightforward in its vanilla flavor. They can be used interchangeably depending on the desired flavor outcome.

Can honey replace vanilla? ›

Honey. Honey adds a bright, floral sweetness to desserts. Like maple syrup, it can also enhance the texture of baked goods. Use 1 tablespoon of honey to replace 1 teaspoon (tsp) of vanilla extract.

Is there a difference between vanilla and French vanilla syrup? ›

You have plain vanilla, french vanilla and vanilla bean. They all taste like vanilla with subtle differences. The vanilla bean is a stronger flavor (just like vanilla bean ice cream has a stronger flavor). Per Torani, the French Vanilla is more custard like in flavor.

How much honey to substitute for vanilla extract? ›

For every 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract called for in your recipe, use about 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup.

Does vanilla extract go bad? ›

What is the shelf life of my vanilla extract? When stored properly, vanilla extract will keep indefinitely, but using it within five years will allow for best flavor and aroma. Do not refrigerate or freeze, even after opening.

What if I don't have vanilla extract? ›

My go-to substitute for vanilla extract is maple syrup. It has the same sweet aroma, and it does a pretty good job of mimicking vanilla's mellow flavor. Use the same amount of maple syrup as you would vanilla, and you'll barely notice the difference.

What is the best way to store honey long term? ›

Keep your honey away from extreme temperatures - store it at a moderate room temperature. Plus, more exposure to light can impair honey quality. It is recommended that you store it in a dark place or use opaque jars to protect it from light. Mix honey gently if you observe early signs of crystallization.

How do you store honey after opening a jar? ›

Keep honey in sealed container.

Because honey contains little water, bacteria don't grow easily, but improperly sealed containers could allow moisture in. Keeping your honey in the original container that you bought it in is recommended, and after use, make sure the lid is on tight so moisture and odors can't sneak in.

What is the best container to store honey in? ›

"This means that when you store honey in plastic, it may lose moisture—or worse, gain it." On the other hand, glass has a proper seal that keeps honey at the right liquid to sugar ratio to remain shelf-stable instead of fermenting.

What's the best way to keep honey fresh? ›

Simply keep it in a cool location away from direct sunlight and in a tightly sealed container. It's recommended that you use the original container the honey came in, though any glass jar or food-safe plastic container will work. Avoid storing honey in metal because it can oxidize.

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