Golden syrup is a classic sweetener originating in Britain, traditionally made during the sugar refining process. This homemade version substitutes brown sugar and cream of tartar to replicate the rich, amber-colored syrup with a buttery, caramel-like flavor. Popular in both British and American kitchens, it’s used over pancakes, waffles, and in baking. This economical version reflects wartime or Depression-era kitchen ingenuity, when cooks used pantry staples to create luxurious flavors without the cost. It's a perfect homemade alternative to store-bought syrup, easy to prepare with only three ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 lb brown sugar
- 1 cup water
- ⅛ tsp cream of tartar
Instructions
Step 1: Mix Ingredients
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1 lb. brown sugar and 1 cup of water.
- Stir in 1/8 teaspoon of cream of tartar.
Step 2: Heat and Simmer
- Place the pan over medium heat.
- Stir the mixture gently and bring it to a low boil.
Step 3: Cook and Thicken
- Cover the saucepan.
- Let it boil gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Cool and Store
- Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Pour into a glass jar or syrup bottle.
- Store at room temperature or refrigerate.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve over hot cakes or waffles.
- Enjoy it hot or cold.
Tips
- Substitute white sugar for a lighter syrup or mix half white and half brown for a balanced flavor.
- Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract after cooling for extra aroma.
- Stir in a dash of lemon juice to enhance the brightness of the syrup.
- For a thicker syrup, extend the simmering time by 2–3 minutes.
Transcription of the Original Recipe
Read or copy the transcription
GOLDEN SYRUP For a delicious yet inexpensive table syrup mix 1 lb. carton of C and H brown sugar with 1 cup water and 1/8 teaspoon cream o f tarter and boil gently for ten min. in a covered sauce pan. This makes one pint of thick golden syrup which will not crystallize and which is a most delicious one on hot cakes or waffles serve hot [unclear] or cold.
From Transcription to Instructions
Hey,thanks for grabbing this little original recipe; it’s short and to the point: mix the brown sugar, water and cream of tartar and boil gently for ten minutes in a covered saucepan. Our instructions keep that exactly but unpack it so you won’t wonder what comes next: we note medium heat, suggest stirring occasionally while it comes to a low boil, tell you to cool slightly before pouring into a jar, and remind you how to store and serve it hot or cold on hotcakes or waffles.
Nutrition
Calories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 31gSodium: 5mgPotassium: 50mgSugar: 31gCalcium: 15mgIron: 0.2mg
