| Prep: 5 mins | Cook: 8 mins – 11 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 70 | 0g | 0g | 18g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 18g | 0g | 0g | 0g |
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When I first tried making this Orange Pancake Syrup, it felt like a delightful blend of the fresh, citrusy flavors I grew up loving in California and the rich, aromatic spices that are central to my Gujarati background. It’s more than just a syrup; it’s a journey through layers of taste that make breakfast feel special.
The Perfect Start to Your Day
What I adore about this syrup is how it transforms a simple stack of pancakes into something extraordinary. Picture your pancakes soaked in a golden glaze, each bite bursting with the brightness of orange juice, the sweetness of sugar, and a hint of cinnamon that warms the soul. This recipe is reminiscent of classic syrups you might find accompanying desserts in European cuisine, but with a tropical twist due to the use of fresh orange juice and zest.
Health Benefits Worth Noting
Beyond its tantalizing taste, this syrup also offers some surprising health benefits. Oranges are known for being rich in vitamin C, which is great for boosting your immune system. The ground cinnamon not only adds a spiced nuance but also comes with antioxidant properties that can help stabilize blood sugar levels. This means you can indulge in something sweet without feeling the guilt often associated with sugary condiments. You can read more about the health benefits of cinnamon here.
Another fantastic element of the Orange Pancake Syrup is its versatility. While it shines on pancakes, it’s equally delightful drizzled over waffles or French toast. Feeling creative? Try using it as a glaze for a citrusy baked ham or mixed into yogurt for a fruity kick. It’s very similar in texture to a traditional Maple Cream Cheese Frosting, but with a vibrant, fruity profile.
Creating this syrup is not just about following a recipe; it’s about crafting an experience. The aromas that fill your kitchen as the combination of orange and cinnamon simmers are nothing short of magical. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a fun project to do with kids. My sons love helping me zest the oranges and whisk the cornstarch slurry—it turns a regular morning into a family affair.
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What You’ll Need
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry)
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Method
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Step One
In a medium saucepan, combine the orange juice, granulated sugar, light corn syrup, grated orange zest, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Stir well to mix the ingredients thoroughly.
Step Two
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to help dissolve the sugar.
Step Three
In a small bowl, prepare the cornstarch slurry by whisking together the cornstarch and water until smooth.
Step Four
Gradually add the cornstarch slurry to the boiling mixture, stirring constantly to avoid any lumps. Continue to cook the syrup for another 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Step Five
Once the syrup has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly before serving. Serve warm over pancakes and enjoy!
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