The classic syrup offered at Starbucks locations is simply called the Starbucks Classic Syrup. It’s their signature flavored syrup that can be added to hot, iced and frozen beverages for a touch of extra sweetness.
A Closer Look at the Starbucks Classic Syrup
The Starbucks Classic Syrup has been around for many years and is a staple ingredient used in many of their popular drinks. Here are some key facts about this classic Starbucks syrup:
- Made with Simple Sugars – The main ingredients are sugar and water.
- Sweetened with Sugar – The classic syrup gets its sweetness from sugar rather than artificial sweeteners or other alternatives.
- Clear Color – The syrup has a clear, transparent color rather than being opaque or colored.
- Smooth Flavor – It has a simple, smooth flavor profile. The syrup itself does not have a very pronounced flavor, allowing the flavors of the coffee or other ingredients to shine.
- Versatile Uses – The classic syrup can be added to virtually any hot, iced or blended Starbucks drink for extra sweetness.
- Customizable Sweetness – You can ask for as many pumps of classic syrup as you want to make your drink sweeter.
- Free Add-On – The classic syrup can be added to any Starbucks drink free of charge.
- Sold Bottled – Starbucks sells bottled versions of the classic syrup on their grocery store shelves so you can add it to drinks at home too.
Taste Profile
When you add the Starbucks Classic Syrup to a drink, it contributes a subtle boost in sweetness without overpowering the other flavors. The syrup itself is not very thick or sticky, allowing it to mix smoothly into both hot and cold beverages. The sweetness is relatively neutral without any pronounced flavors like vanilla, caramel or hazelnut. This makes the classic syrup very versatile as a way to mildly enhance the sweetness of espresso drinks, Refreshers, teas and other Starbucks menu items. Just a pump or two adds a touch of sweetness, while asking for extra pumps can satisfy a bigger sweet tooth.
Uses in Starbucks Drinks
Some examples of how the Starbucks Classic Syrup is used in popular drinks on their menu include:
- Iced Coffee – The classic syrup is swirled into iced coffee for added sweetness to balance out the coffee’s bitterness.
- Latte – Shots of espresso are combined with steamed milk and pumps of classic syrup to lightly sweeten the latte.
- Caffè Mocha – The bittersweet mocha sauce is pumped with classic syrup to round out the sweetness of this chocolatey latte.
- Pink Drink – This light Refreshers Beverage gets classic syrup added to give it a touch of sweetness.
- Iced Chai Tea Latte – Spiced chai tea concentrate is prepared with milk and classic syrup pumps.
- Cold Brew – Smooth cold brew coffee can be customized with pumps of classic syrup to enhance the sweetness.
No matter what your go-to Starbucks order is, you can always ask to add pumps of the classic syrup to make it a little sweeter to your taste. Baristas will be happy to oblige your request for extra sweetness.
History of the Classic Syrup
The signature classic syrup has long been part of Starbucks’ core drink offerings since the early days. According to Starbucks, they have been using the same classic syrup recipe for over 40 years dating back to when they only had a handful of cafes opened in Seattle in the 1970s. Founder Jerry Baldwin has said he took inspiration from old-fashion soda fountains when first developing flavored syrups to add to drinks. The classic syrup was designed to complement the flavor of Starbucks coffee and espresso beverages.
While many new syrup flavors like mocha, vanilla, caramel and pumpkin spice have been added over the years, the classic original still remains the foundation for sweetening many drinks. It has stood the test of time as a customizable way to make drinks exactly as sweet as each customer prefers.
Origins in Seattle
Starbucks first began selling brewed coffee and espresso drinks in its original Pike Place Market location back in 1971. The idea of adding flavored syrups emerged fairly early on as a way to satisfy customer requests for sweeter drinks. The classic syrup was developed as that core sweetening agent that could work well in a variety of hot and cold espresso beverages. It became a key part of the Starbucks experience from the start.
National Expansion
As Starbucks started to expand across the United States in the 1980s and 1990s, the classic syrup went nationwide with it. It was an important part of being able to maintain consistent flavors for core menu items like lattes, mochas and cappuccinos as Starbucks rapidly scaled up its cafe locations. The pumps of classic syrup ensured that a latté tasted like a true Starbucks latté, whether it was ordered in Seattle or Philadelphia. Distinct ordering terminology like “one pump” or “three pumps” of classic syrup helped ingrain Starbucks culture across the country.
New Flavor Innovations
While the classic original syrup remained untouched, Starbucks did begin innovating with new flavored syrups during the 1990s and 2000s. Additions like vanilla, cinnamon dolce, hazelnut and peppermint syrups gave customers more choices to customize their drinks. But the classic syrup continued to stand the test of time as a foundational ingredient customers could rely on. As different trends and flavors come and go, the classic syrup persists as the OG Starbucks sweetener.
How the Classic Syrup Is Made
Starbucks keeps the exact recipe and production methods for its classic syrup proprietary. But according to the ingredients listed, the basic formula is likely simple and straightforward. Here is some insight into how Starbucks may make their classic syrup:
Simple Ingredient List
The ingredient list for the Starbucks Classic Syrup reveals it contains only sugar and water. No artificial sweeteners, preservatives, artificial flavors or colors are used. This simple, straightforward formula likely makes large-scale production easier.
Sugar Dissolved in Water
To make basic simple syrup, granulated white sugar is dissolved in purified water through heating. The water solubilizes the sucrose molecules as the mixture reaches a boil. This creates a concentrated sugar water solution.
Precise Ratios
Starbucks likely uses very precise ratios of sugar to water tuned to their ideal level of sweetness and viscosity. They may have test kitchens that rigorously test different ratios.
Commercial Scale Production
Massive commercial equipment is likely used to boil vats of sugar water to efficiently produce high volumes of the classic syrup. Automated bottling lines then package the syrup.
Quality Control Checks
Throughout the process, quality control lab technicians probably verify the syrup’s sugar concentration, appearance, aroma, taste and other metrics. This ensures consistency batch to batch.
Distribution to Cafes
The bottled classic syrup is distributed to Starbucks locations so it can be used in pumps on the beverage line. The company closely safeguards the recipe.
Nutrition Information
Like most syrups and sweeteners, the Starbucks Classic Syrup is high in sugar and carbohydrates and does not contain significant other nutrients. Here is the nutrition information for a 1-tablespoon (12g) serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 45 |
| Total Fat | 0 g |
| Sodium | 0 mg |
| Total Carbs | 11 g |
| Sugars | 11 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
As you can see, the calories and carbs in the classic syrup come almost entirely from the 11 grams of sugar. There are no significant amounts of protein, fat or micronutrients.
When adding pumps of syrup to your Starbucks drink, be mindful that each 1-tablespoon serving adds 45 calories and 11g of sugars. Requesting extra pumps will quickly increase the beverage’s sugar content. Those watching their sugar intake may want to ask for fewer pumps or sugar-free flavoring alternatives like cinnamon instead. Otherwise, enjoy those added pumps of classic syrup guilt-free!
Cost of Adding Classic Syrup
The best part about customizing your Starbucks drink with pumps of classic syrup is that it comes at no additional cost!
Free Add-On
Requests for the classic syrup are always free at Starbucks. Whether you ask for the standard recipe pumps or to add extra, you’ll never be charged for the added syrup.
Exceptions for Extra Milk/Alternative Milks
An exception is that if adding the syrup requires extra milk or a milk substitute, you may be charged additionally for that. For example, requesting extra pumps of classic in a latte that already comes with the maximum amount of milk allowed may require an extra shot of milk, which would incur a charge.
No Limits on Pumps
Some Starbucks locations set limits on how many extra pumps of flavors like vanilla or mocha sauce that can be added for free. However, there are typically no limits on extra pumps of the classic syrup. Order 10, 20 or however many pumps your heart desires at no extra cost!
Can’t Substitute for Other Syrups
While the classic is free, other specialty syrups like pumpkin spice or vanilla still cost extra if substituted or added beyond the standard recipe. But the classic is the go-to for a no-cost way to make your drink a little sweeter.
How to Order It With Drinks
Ordering your Starbucks drink with classic syrup is easy! Here are some tips for requesting it:
Know the Standard Recipe
Know that most hot and iced espresso drinks like lattes and mochas already come with a standard number of pumps of classic syrup, typically between 2 and 4 pumps depending on size. You can always ask for this standard amount too.
Specify Number of Pumps
When ordering, clearly request the number of pumps of classic syrup you want added. For example, “I’ll have a grande iced coffee with 2 pumps of classic syrup.”
Adjust Sweetness
Feel free to request more or less pumps than the standard recipe to adjust the sweetness level. Just ask for extra pumps if you want it sweeter!
Special Instructions
You can give any other special requests like adding the syrup to drinks it doesn’t normally come in or putting it in hot versus cold, etc. The baristas will do their best to accommodate!
Copycat Recipe to DIY at Home
Want to recreate the Starbucks classic syrup at home for customizing your own coffee drinks? Here is a simple copycat recipe:
Ingredients
- 2 cups white sugar
- 1 cup water
- Pinch of salt (optional)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Directions
- Combine the sugar, water and salt (if using) in a small saucepan.
- Heat over medium, stirring frequently, until the mixture reaches a boil.
- Once boiling, let it boil for 1 minute, then remove from heat.
- Stir in vanilla extract (if using).
- Let cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
- Store in the fridge for up to 1 month.
- Shake well before using in iced coffee, lattes, cappuccinos and other favorite drinks!
This easy homemade classic syrup recipe can help you customize the sweetness of your own coffeehouse-style drinks. Adjust the amounts of sugar and flavors to suit your tastes. With this copycat classic syrup on hand, you can bring the Starbucks experience home.
Tips for Using Classic Syrup at Home
Have fun experimenting with the Starbucks classic syrup or your homemade version when making coffee drinks at home. Here are some tips:
Add to Iced Coffee
Stir a few tablespoons of the classic syrup into a glass of iced coffee for an easier way to sweeten it than granulated sugar.
Pump into Lattes
Use a small squeeze bottle to pump the syrup into hot lattes just like they do at Starbucks. Start with 1-2 pumps per 8 oz.
Sweeten Frappuccinos
Blend a couple pumps of classic syrup into Frappuccinos to balance out the icy, coffee flavors.
Flavor Milk Tea
Add classic syrup to give beloved milk teas a signature sweetness.
Mix into Cocktails
Add a splash of classic syrup to iced coffees, fall spice lattes or other coffee cocktails.
Create Custom Pumps
Make your own customized syrups by adding ingredients like vanilla, caramel or fall spice flavors.
Whether you use the exact Starbucks version or make your own, classic coffee syrup opens up so many possibilities for sweet coffeehouse-worthy drinks at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common FAQs about the Starbucks Classic Syrup:
Is the classic syrup vegan?
Yes, the Starbucks Classic Syrup is vegan. It contains no animal products, just sugar and water.
What drinks contain classic syrup?
Many Starbucks coffee and espresso beverages contain classic syrup in the standard recipe, including lattes, mochas, macchiatos, white chocolate mochas, and iced coffee. Drinks that don’t normally contain it include americanos, brewed coffee, and tea.
Does classic syrup have caffeine?
No, the classic syrup does not contain any caffeine. The caffeine in the drinks comes from the coffee or espresso, not the syrup.
Is the classic syrup gluten-free?
Yes, the classic syrup at Starbucks is gluten-free since it is made from just sugar and water.
What sweeteners are in the classic syrup?
The only sweetener used in Starbucks classic syrup is regular sugar. There are no artificial sweeteners.
Does the classic syrup go bad?
The classic syrup has a shelf life of about 1-2 years when stored properly in a sealed bottle. Over time, it may start to crystallize as the water evaporates.
Conclusion
For over 40 years, the Starbucks Classic Syrup has been sweetening up our coffee breaks with its signature taste. This simple syrup adds a touch of sugar and sweetness to all kinds of hot, iced and blended beverages. Just a few pumps of this classic flavoring can round out the flavors of espresso, milk and spices that we crave from Starbucks. Though recipes and trends come and go, this traditional sweet staple remains a beloved constant on Starbucks’ menus through the years. So next time you place your order, don’t hesitate to ask for an extra pump or two of that classic goodness!
