Whole cinnamon sticks - You can find these at your local grocery store in the spice section. If needed, ground cinnamon can be used but not all of it will strain out at the end. Substitute 1 ½ teaspoons ground in place of the 3 sticks.

Organic cane sugar - Instead of white sugar, organic cane sugar is a less refined version and is also vegan-friendly.

Water - We are using a 1:1 ratio for this recipe: one cup of sugar to one cup of water. This will result in about one cup of syrup.

Step 1: Add water, organic cane sugar, cinnamon sticks, and vanilla extract to a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat and occasionally stir until sugar dissolves. Turn down the heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes. Remove from heat. Allow to cool completely.

Step 2: Strain into a clean and sterile airtight container, glass jar, or syrup dispenser.