Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan, combine water, coffee, sugar, cocoa powder, cinnamon, and salt. Heat over medium, whisking until sugar and cocoa are completely dissolved and the mixture just begins to simmer. Do not boil vigorously.
- Reduce heat to low. Slowly pour in the heavy cream in a thin, steady stream while whisking the syrup base constantly and vigorously.
- Continue to heat gently for 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until the mixture is uniformly warm and slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
- Whisk in the vanilla and almond extracts. For ultimate stability, if using, sprinkle the xanthan gum over the surface while whisking briskly to prevent clumps.
- Allow the syrup to cool for 15 minutes. For an ultra-smooth texture, strain it through a fine-mesh strainer into a heat-proof bottle or jar. Seal and refrigerate. The syrup will thicken further as it chills.
Notes
Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 weeks. The optional xanthan gum ensures the syrup stays perfectly emulsified and thick. For a dairy-free version, use full-fat coconut cream. This syrup is excellent in coffee, over ice cream or pancakes, or as a base for mocktails.
