Place all ingredients (except the vanilla extract) into a small saucepan over medium heat and stir to combine. Bring contents to a slow boil (avoid a rolling boil), then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer simple syrup until molasses and sugar have dissolved (about 5-10 minutes), stirring occasionally.
Remove the gingerbread syrup from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Allow the syrup to cool completely before storing.
Transfer the simple syrup to an air-tight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
Make sure to shake your syrup before using. This helps to redistribute the spices throughout your gingerbread syrup.*Optional nutmeg: To add nutmeg or not to add nutmeg? That is the question. If what you love about gingerbread cookies and breads is that sharp spice, I recommend adding up to ⅛ teaspoon of nutmeg. If you don’t want your holiday beverages to have the bold spice from nutmeg (which can be overpowering if a high quantity is used) – use a pinch or skip the nutmeg all together.*Recipe Substitutions and Variations:
Use brown sugar. Using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar in gingerbread syrup is a wonderful swap. This will add even more richness and molasses flavor.
Add additional winter spices. Nutmeg is already listed as an option addition to this syrup. If you love the flavor of clove and/or allspice, add ⅛ teaspoon (or as much as ¼ tsp) of each into your syrup when cooking