BEST COFFEE SYRUP BRANDS TO MAKE YOUR MORNING BREW SPECIAL
Here are seven delicious coffee syrups to turn your morning coffee into a sweet treat.
I love drinking specialty coffee black or with a dash of cream. I probably wouldn’t have this job if I didn’t. But sometimes, a certain mood calls for something a little special, a little sweet.
Rather than take a trip to your local coffee shop, you can easily make a flavored drink at home with coffee syrup. There is a mind-boggling array of brands and flavors out there, and I tested way too many of them to bring you this list of my seven favorites.
At A Glance:
- TOP PICK: Torani Variety Pack
- SEASONAL FAVORITE: Portland Syrups Pumpkin Spice
- GREAT VALUE: DaVinci Gourmet Natural Hawaiian Salted Caramel
The 7 Best Syrups for Coffee in 2026
There is a tremendous variety of options on the market. Classics like vanilla, caramel, hazelnut, and chocolate still dominate, but each year, new inventive flavors are released. I’ve picked a little of everything for this list, so you can find exactly what you’re looking for, whether you prefer a traditional mocha or a new-fangled pumpkin pie spice latte.
| Image | Product | Details | |
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| No products found. | Torani Variety Pack |
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| No products found. | Monin Caramel |
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| No products found. | Amoretti Premium French Vanilla |
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| No products found. | Ghirardelli Chocolate Sauce |
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| No products found. | Jordan’s Skinny Syrups Dessert Collection |
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| No products found. | Portland Syrups Pumpkin Spice |
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| No products found. | DaVinci Gourmet Natural Hawaiian Salted Caramel |
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Here are some of the classics and some of the more creative. But definitely some of the best syrups for coffee drinks out there.
1. Torani Variety Pack
Flavor(s): Caramel, Hazelnut, Vanilla, French Vanilla
- Sweetener: Cane Syrup
- Size: 25.4 oz x 4
- Sugar-Free Options: Single Bottles Only
Torani is the dominant brand in the syrup market – and not for no reason. Every Torani syrup I tested had a rich flavor that never tasted artificial. Apparently, their original syrups are still based on the handwritten recipes of their Italian American founders.
I enjoyed Torani syrups so much that I couldn’t choose just one, which is why this classic variety pack tops my list.
It contains the four most popular flavors: caramel, hazelnut, vanilla, and French vanilla. I kind of wish they’d added something more diverse rather than a second vanilla, but that’s just me.
They’re great on their own, but with this many bottles, you can also experiment with fun combinations.
2. Monin Caramel
Flavor(s): Caramel
- Sweetener: Cane Sugar
- Size: 25.4 oz
- Sugar-Free Options: Yes
French brand Monin has a long history in the drinks industry. They began producing liqueurs in 1912 and eventually expanded to syrups, sauces, and concentrates. There are now over 100 Monin flavors, but the caramel flavor remains one of their most popular and versatile.
Its base of pure cane sugar gives it a natural caramel taste, which is boosted by natural flavors for a smooth buttery sweetness. I loved adding this one to cold foamed milk in the summer to top a refreshing cup of cold brew.
If the original isn’t exactly what you’re after, Monin has plenty of options available.
3. Amoretti Premium French Vanilla
Flavor(s): Vanilla
- Sweetener: Sucrose, Dextrose, Fructose
- Size: 25.4 oz
- Sugar-Free Options: Yes
There’s vanilla, and there’s French vanilla. Which one you prefer is a matter of personal taste. Personally, I’m in the French vanilla camp. I just can’t get enough of its added custardy richness (1).
Amoretti’s Premium French Vanilla Coffee Syrup is a perfect example. Despite being a relatively thin syrup rather than a sauce, it still manages to convey a creaminess that I didn’t get from other brands. I enjoyed it in both hot and iced vanilla lattes and, if I’m being candid, drizzled over the occasional bowl of vanilla ice cream.
Amoretti is a favorite brand of many pastry chefs, but they’re carefully crafted for use in hot or cold drinks, too – with a guarantee that they won’t curdle milk (2).
4. Ghirardelli Chocolate Sauce
Flavor(s): Chocolate
- Sweetener: Cane Sugar
- Size: 16 oz
- Sugar-Free Options: No
This truly indulgent sauce from Ghirardelli is a chocolate lover’s dream. The famous chocolate brand doesn’t just use flavoring but adds real chocolate and cocoa powder for a rich and delicious sauce I could (and did) eat by the spoonful. Speaking of, it comes with a lovely engraved measuring spoon.
It’s definitely more sauce than syrup. Its bold flavor and thick body make it best for hot chocolate and espresso-based drinks, like a mocha, rather than stirring into a drip coffee. It also makes a fantastic topping for ice cream or other desserts, or you can use it to DIY chocolate milk.
The only downside to this saucy delight is its slightly shorter shelf life. Use it within a month of opening.
5. Jordan’s Skinny Syrups Dessert Collection
Flavor(s): Caramel Creme Cheesecake, Chocolate Coconut Macaron, Iced Cinnamon Roll
- Sweetener: Sucralose
- Size: 25.4 x 3
- Sugar-Free Options: Yes
There’s something about a sugar-free syrup that makes me want to grab the most decadent flavor possible, which is how this variety of flavors from Jordan’s ended up in my shopping cart. Who doesn’t want a calorie-free caramel creme cheesecake, after all?
I think they did a perfect job selecting the unique flavors for this three-pack, as each is very distinct. The surprise hit for me was the Chocolate Coconut Macaron, which skewed a little less sweet than the others, but you can make up your own mind. I can see the spicy notes of the Iced Cinnamon Bun being a fall favorite.
6. Portland Syrups Pumpkin Spice
Flavor(s): Pumpkin Spice
- Sweetener: Organic Cane Sugar, Brown Sugar
- Size: 12 oz
- Sugar-Free Options: No
Remember the uproar when everyone discovered that the Starbucks PSL didn’t actually contain any pumpkin (3)? If you felt personally victimized by that revelation, the Portland Syrups Pumpkin Spice is exactly what you’ve been looking for.
It tastes fresh and real, like something I just whipped up in my home kitchen.
And a quick glance at the high-quality ingredients list reveals why. Organic cane sugar, real pumpkin puree, ginger juice, cinnamon… You get the idea.
If you wait all year for Starbucks to start churning out PSLs in the fall, do yourself a favor and pick up a bottle of this flavoring syrup instead. Not only is it better than anything you’ll find at a chain coffee shop, but you can enjoy it year-round!
7. DaVinci Gourmet Natural Hawaiian Salted Caramel
Flavor(s): Hawaiian Salted Caramel
- Sweetener: Cane Sugar
- Size: 25.4 oz
- Sugar-Free Options: No
It might surprise you to learn that something with a name like “Gourmet Natural” is actually the cheapest option on this list. It certainly surprised me. This bottle is less than half the price of Monin’s Caramel Syrup!
DaVinci’s Naturals line sticks to simple ingredients, with no artificial flavors or sweeteners and no preservatives. This consists of just cane sugar, water, sea salt, natural flavor, and citric acid.
What makes it Hawaiian, you ask? It’s more than just a marketing slogan. DaVinci sources a unique sea salt from the waters off Hawaii, where the volcanic clay adds a depth of flavor and a subtle pink color.
I won’t claim I could taste the subtle tinge of Hawaii in my cappuccino, but regardless, it’s a lovely version of salted caramel. Sweet, buttery, and just salty enough to keep things exciting.
How To Choose A Syrup for Your Coffee
Flavored syrups don’t have the best reputation. Coffee connoisseurs turn up their noses at the idea of masking the natural flavor of a specialty coffee, and health nuts decry their high sugar content. But there’s a time and a place for everything, in my opinion, and not all syrups for lattes are created equal.
The important thing is to find a flavor you love with a nutritional profile that fits your lifestyle. Here are a few top tips to narrow down your options.
Choosing A Flavor: Classic Or Creative?
If you already have a favorite cafe drink, you probably already know which flavors you enjoy. But if this is your first time trying a flavored coffee syrup, what flavor should you try?
There’s a reason the classics are the most popular. I’d suggest you start with flavors like vanilla bean, caramel, hazelnut, and chocolate, which are known to pair best with the bittersweet notes of roasted coffee.
It’s easy to get more creative with unique options once you’ve sampled the basics. Then, check out more inventive nutty options like pecan pie or almond praline. You can even try mixing and matching syrups to create your own signature flavor!
Know Your Sweeteners
Are you looking for a healthy coffee syrup? Start by defining what “healthy” means to you. For some, it means all-natural and organic with no artificial or unpronounceable ingredients. For others, it means the option with the fewest calories.
Sugar comes in many forms, including sucrose, dextrose, fructose, and corn syrup. While they’re all derived from natural sources (such as sugarcane and corn), fructose and corn syrup have been linked to several health issues (4).
Sugar-free syrups are made with artificial sweeteners, most often sucralose (aka Splenda). While there used to be concerns that artificial sweeteners lead to a higher risk of cancer, recent long-term studies have disproven this (5). They’re safe to eat or drink as a regular part of a healthy diet.
If you’re steering clear of sweeteners, check out my picks for the best flavored coffee beans instead.
Coffee Syrup Vs Flavored Syrup
Most of these bottles don’t say “coffee syrup” on the label. Flavored syrups have a wide range of uses, from cocktails and mocktails to other sweets recipes. However, that doesn’t mean that you can use any syrup in your cup of joe.
Syrups not formulated for use in coffee may not dissolve completely or may curdle when added to milky drinks. Not to mention, some flavors are bound to clash with coffee.
As a general rule, avoid anything labeled as ice cream or dessert sauces, which may break down when added to hot drinks. Or play it safe and stick to the brands on this list. I’ve tested them all in hot coffee, cold coffee, and milk-based specialty drinks.
How Do You Use Coffee-Flavoring Syrups?
The classic use for coffee syrup is in a flavored latte, but you can add syrups to just about any coffee at home. I’d still recommend starting by drinking black coffee and learning to enjoy it. You may find you don’t want to add syrup at all, but even if you do, understanding the natural profile of a coffee will help you choose the best syrup pairing.
Regarding what kind of coffee beverage to use, aim for something mid-priced with a medium or dark roast. A good coffee syrup won’t mask the taste of bad coffee, but you also don’t want to ruin the subtle notes of expensive specialty coffee.
The Verdict
As you can see, there’s a delicious syrup out there for every occasion. I’ve picked Torani’s Variety Pack as the best overall because it’s a great way to experience the most popular flavors from a reliably high-quality brand. It’s the perfect starting point for anyone new to making flavored coffee drinks. And once you know what you like, there’s a world of unique and exciting options to explore.
FAQs
Syrups last between 1 and 3 years if left unopened. After opening, the shelf life will be 3 to 6 months with a standard cap or 1 to 2 months with a pump or pour spout (6). Store your syrups at room temperature; there is no need to refrigerate.
The most popular syrup brands at coffee shops are DaVinci, Torani, and Monin. However, every barista has their own preferences, and some even like to make their own syrups from natural ingredients. If you’re curious, ask the barista at your local shop what they prefer.
There is no best syrup for iced coffee; all coffee syrup options work. It’s up to you to choose your favorite flavor! Avoid thicker sauces (like the Ghirardelli sauce on this list) or solid sugars, which won’t dissolve as well in cold drinks. If you want to add sweetness without flavoring, try making a simple syrup.
The answer depends strongly on what syrup and creamer you choose – and on how you define “better for you.” My only advice is to read labels carefully and consider which ingredients or nutrients you want to avoid (fats, sugars, artificial flavors, etc).
Starbucks uses its own house brand of syrups. Many of these are available for sale online or in-store if you want to mimic the Starbucks experience at home. However, I tested a few for this article, and none were as good as the brands that made the list.
References
- Daley, B. (2011, March 3). What’s the difference between vanilla and French vanilla? Retrieved from https://www.seattletimes.com/life/food-drink/whats-the-difference-between-vanilla-and-french-vanilla/.
- Amoretti. (n.d.). Premium French Vanilla Syrup. Retrieved from https://amoretti.com/collections/premium-syrups/products/french-vanilla-syrup.
- Knibbs, K. (2014, August 28). Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Lattes™ have no pumpkin in them [Updated]. Retrieved from https://gizmodo.com/starbucks-pumpkin-spice-lattes-have-no-pumpkin-in-them-1628111291
- Mawer, R. (2019, September 27). 6 Reasons Why High-Fructose Corn Syrup Is Bad for You. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/why-high-fructose-corn-syrup-is-bad.
- NHS Choices. (n.d.). The truth about sweeteners. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/are-sweeteners-safe/.
- Adams + Russell Coffee Roasters. (2019, July 5). Coffee Syrups – how much to use, where to buy & does it expire? Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/food-types/are-sweeteners-safe/
