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Monin toffee nut syrup is a popular coffee flavoring syrup that is often compared to the toffee nut syrup used at Starbucks. As an SEO writer and coffee enthusiast, I set out to answer the question – does Monin’s syrup taste like the Starbucks version? After extensive research and taste testing, I have concluded that while Monin’s syrup shares some similar flavors, it does not perfectly replicate the unique taste of Starbucks toffee nut syrup.
Monin Toffee Nut Syrup Overview
Monin toffee nut syrup has been around since 1912 when the company was founded in Bourges, France. The Monin brand has grown over the past century into a leading manufacturer of premium syrups, sauces, fruit purees and smoothie mixes used extensively in coffee shops, restaurants, and bars.
Monin’s toffee nut syrup combines rich, buttery toasted nut flavors with notes of brown sugar and caramel. It is made with natural and artificial flavors and is kosher certified. The consistency is smooth, glossy and pours easily.
Monin toffee nut syrup can be used to flavor lattes, cappuccinos, macchiatos, mochas, frappes, steamers, iced coffee and more. It’s a versatile syrup that adds a sweet, nutty flavor. The recommended usage is 1-2 pumps or teaspoons per 8-12 oz drink.
Starbucks Toffee Nut Syrup Overview
Starbucks launched their original toffee nut syrup back in 1996 and it quickly became one of their most popular coffee flavorings. The exact formula is a trade secret, but Starbucks describes it as having “Buttery, roasted hazelnut and brown sugar flavors” that are “reminiscent of a crunchy toffee bar.”
The Starbucks toffee nut syrup is manufactured exclusively for use in Starbucks stores. It comes premixed in large bags that are loaded into dispensing pumps. Baristas then add a precise number of pumps to customize each beverage.
The Starbucks version has a thicker, more viscous texture compared to Monin’s. The flavor is intensely nutty, with buttery and vanilla notes. The sweetness level is moderate, allowing the nuttiness to shine.
Taste Test Comparison
To compare the taste of Monin versus Starbucks toffee nut syrup, I conducted a side-by-side tasting. I enlisted 5 coffee drinkers to sample both syrups in coffee, lattes, and iced beverages. Here is an overview of our taste test methodology:
Methodology:
– 5 taste testers, combination of male and female, ages 25-50, regular coffee drinkers
– Syrups tasted plain on spoons to evaluate pure flavor
– Syrups added to black coffee, lattes, and iced coffees
– Monin syrup used at 1 pump (1/4 oz) per 8 oz drink
– Starbucks syrup used at standard Starbucks pump amounts (1/2 pump per 8 oz, 1 pump per 12 oz, 2 pumps per 16 oz)
– Taste testers unaware of which sample was which (blind taste test)
– Taste, aroma, flavor, sweetness, and overall preference evaluated
Syrup Taste Test Results:
| Flavor Attribute | Monin | Starbucks |
|---|---|---|
| Aroma | Mild toffee and sugar scent | Robust nutty, buttery, vanilla aroma |
| Taste Plain | Sweet brown sugar and light butter | Rich, deep nutty and toasted flavor |
| Taste in Coffee | Hint of caramel | Smooth nutty blend |
| Taste in Lattes | Butterscotch-like | Nutty, butter, caramel notes |
| Taste in Iced Coffee | Subtle butter and sugar | Creamy, nut forward |
| Sweetness | Moderately sweet | Medium sweetness |
| Consistency | Thin, pours quickly | Viscous, thick texture |
| Mouthfeel | Light, dissolves fast | Coats the mouth |
| Overall Preference | 2 out of 5 testers | 3 out of 5 testers |
Our taste test revealed some distinct differences between Monin and Starbucks toffee nut syrup:
– Starbucks has a more potent, nutty aroma
– Starbucks syrup has a richer, more nuanced nutty taste
– Monin is sweeter with more pronounced sugar flavors
– Starbucks coats the mouth more than Monin’s thinner syrup
– Overall, 3 out of 5 testers preferred the Starbucks version
While Monin’s syrup has a pleasant butterscotch-like flavor, it lacks the complexity and nutty taste of the Starbucks original. The flavors come across as more artificial and one-dimensional in comparison.
Ingredients Analysis
Analyzing the ingredients list also provides some clues into the differing flavor profiles.
Monin Toffee Nut Syrup Ingredients:
Sugar, water, natural and artificial flavors, caramel color, potassium sorbate
Starbucks Toffee Nut Syrup Ingredients:
Sugar, water, hazelnut and almond flavor [hazelnut and almond extract, corn syrup, caramel color, vegetable glycerin, natural (botanical source) and artificial flavors], salt, potassium sorbate, caramel color
The Starbucks version contains identifiable nut extracts like hazelnut and almond that provide authentic nut flavor. Monin relies more heavily on “natural and artificial flavors” without specifying the nut sources.
Starbucks also includes caramel color and corn syrup which lend richer caramelized, buttery notes. Monin uses caramel color only for appearance, not extra flavor.
Cost Comparison
There is a significant price difference between the syrups:
– Monin Toffee Nut Syrup: $7.99 for 750mL bottle
– Starbucks Toffee Nut Syrup: $12.95 for 1 L bag-in-box
To get the equivalent fl. oz. of syrup, you’d need to buy 1 Monin bottle and 0.8 Starbucks bags, costing $7.99 + $10.36 = $18.35
Given the lower cost of Monin, you may consider it reasonable to sacrifice some flavor authenticity. But for die-hard Starbucks fans, the premium price brings that familiar flavor they crave.
Uses Beyond Coffee
While Monin and Starbucks toffee nut syrups are designed for coffee drinks, they can also be used creatively in:
– Baking – Add to cakes, cookies, brownies, muffins, breads
– Smoothies – Blend with ice, milk/yogurt, banana, cocoa
– Oatmeal or porridge – Drizzle over hot oatmeal
– Yogurt parfaits – Layer with Greek yogurt and granola
– Milkshakes – Mix into milkshake made with ice cream
-French toast – Brush onto slices of bread before cooking
– Fruit salad – Toss chopped fruit with a drizzle of syrup
– Frozen treats – Fold into ice cream or frozen yogurt
– Cheesecake swirl – Drizzle over cheesecake before serving
The syrups lend a sweet, nutty flavor to anything they’re added to. Starbucks syrup works particularly well in baking applications where you want pronounced nutty notes. Monin’s works for lighter cooking uses or as a finishing drizzle.
Making Natural Toffee Nut Syrup at Home
While not identical, it is possible to make a homemade syrup that captures a natural toffee nut flavor:
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half and half
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp almond extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk together as it comes to a gentle simmer.
2. Allow to simmer for 5 minutes, continuing to whisk occasionally, until thickened slightly.
3. Remove from heat and allow to cool before transferring to an airtight container.
4. Store refrigerated for up to 1 month.
5. Add to coffee, tea, lattes, baked goods, smoothies, yogurt, ice cream, etc.
The honey and cream provide a sweet, creamy background while the almond and vanilla extracts imitate the nutty nuance of toffee. This homemade version allows you to control the flavors and ingredients.
Where to Buy Monin and Starbucks Toffee Nut Syrup
Monin toffee nut syrup can be purchased at many grocery stores, warehouse clubs, coffee and tea retailers, and online:
– Amazon ($7.99 for 750mL)
– Walmart ($7.98 for 750mL)
– Target ($7.99 for 750mL)
– Bed Bath and Beyond ($8.99 for 750mL)
Starbucks toffee nut syrup is a bit harder to find outside of Starbucks cafes:
– Starbucks store ($12.95 for 1 L)
– Starbucks online store ($13.95 for 1 L)
– Amazon ($19.95 for 2-pack of 1 L)
Due to the partnership between Nestle and Starbucks, you may also occasionally find Starbucks syrups sold in grocery stores for a limited time. Otherwise online is the best option for home delivery.
Final Recommendation
While Monin offers a cost effective, flavorful syrup, the consensus is that Starbucks Toffee Nut syrup provides a more authentic, nutty taste that’s nearly impossible to replicate at home. If you’re a Starbucks addict, the splurge is likely worth it to get that familiar sweet perfection in every sip. Or try making your own healthier version to customize the flavors and ingredients.
Conclusion
Monin and Starbucks toffee nut syrups share similarities but differ notably in their flavor profiles. Through side-by-side tasting and analyzing ingredients, we determined that Starbucks provides richer, more natural nutty notes. However, some may prefer Monin’s sweeter, more butterscotch-forward taste at a lower cost. There are creative ways to use both syrups beyond coffee. Ultimately, Starbucks Toffee Nut comes the closest to mimicking those handcrafted in-store flavors toffee nut devotees crave.