Dunkin’ Butter Pecan Syrup Recipe (Copycat)

Dunkin’s Butter Pecan flavor is one of the most loved seasonal coffee syrups ever released. It’s rich, nutty, buttery, slightly caramel-like, and perfectly sweet without being overpowering. When stirred into iced coffee, cold brew, or a latte, it delivers a warm roasted pecan aroma with smooth buttery notes that taste like dessert in a cup.

The good news is you can recreate this iconic syrup at home with simple pantry ingredients and real pecans for an authentic, deep flavor that tastes even better than the store version.

Why This Syrup Tastes Like Dunkin’

The real secret behind butter pecan flavor is not just sugar and extract. It comes from:

• Toasted pecans are releasing natural oils
• Butter creates richness and depth
• Brown sugar for caramel undertones
• Vanilla enhancing sweetness
• A gentle simmer to infuse everything together

This recipe focuses on extracting true pecan flavor instead of relying only on artificial flavorings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup raw pecan halves
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup white sugar
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Optional for stronger flavor:

• ¼ teaspoon butter extract
• ¼ teaspoon pecan extract

Prep Time and Yield

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Infusion Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: About 1½ cups syrup (12–16 drinks)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

Place pecans in a dry pan over medium heat. Toast for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant and slightly darkened. This step is essential for releasing the nutty oils.

Remove from heat and roughly chop.

Step 2: Make the Sugar Base

In a saucepan, combine water, brown sugar, and white sugar. Heat over medium, stirring until fully dissolved.

Step 3: Add Butter and Pecans

Add butter, salt, and the toasted pecans to the sugar mixture. Stir gently and bring to a light simmer.

Step 4: Simmer and Infuse

Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 10–12 minutes. Do not boil rapidly. This allows the pecans to infuse their flavor into the syrup.

Step 5: Rest for Infusion

Remove from heat and let the syrup sit for 20 minutes. This resting time deepens the pecan flavor.

Step 6: Strain the Syrup

Strain out the pecan pieces using a fine mesh strainer. Press lightly to extract all liquid.

Step 7: Add Vanilla and Extracts

Once slightly cooled, stir in vanilla and optional extracts.

Let cool completely before storing.

How to Use Butter Pecan Syrup

Add 1–2 tablespoons to:

• Iced coffee
• Cold brew
• Lattes
• Cappuccinos
• Milkshakes
• Pancakes or waffles
• Oatmeal

It’s incredibly versatile beyond coffee.

Tips for Stronger Pecan Flavor

• Toast pecans well, but don’t burn them
• Allow proper resting time after simmering
• Use both brown sugar and white sugar
• Add a tiny amount of pecan extract for a coffee-shop level aroma

Storage Instructions

Store syrup in a glass bottle or jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Because this syrup contains butter and real nuts, refrigeration is important.

Shake before each use.

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Can You Make It Without Butter?

Yes. Substitute butter with 1 tablespoon neutral oil, but the flavor will be less rich.

Can You Make It Sugar-Free?

You can use a sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener designed for syrups, though the texture may be thinner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the pecan toasting step
• Boiling the syrup too hard
• Not allowing infusion time
• Forgetting to strain thoroughly

Flavor Profile Breakdown

This syrup has:

• Nutty roasted pecan aroma
• Buttery smoothness
• Caramel-like sweetness
• Warm vanilla finish

Exactly what makes Dunkin’s version so addictive.

Drink Ideas Using This Syrup

Butter Pecan Iced Coffee

Add ice, coffee, milk, and 2 tablespoons of syrup.

Butter Pecan Latte

Add to espresso and steamed milk.

Butter Pecan Cold Foam

Mix syrup into cold foam for a café-style topping.

Butter Pecan Milkshake

Blend milk, ice cream, and syrup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I leave the pecans in the syrup?

It’s best to strain them for smooth pouring and a longer shelf life.

Why use two types of sugar?

Brown sugar adds caramel depth while white sugar keeps it clean and sweet.

Does it taste exactly like Dunkin’?

Very close, but fresher and more natural due to real pecans.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, it scales perfectly.

Final Thoughts

This Dunkin’ Butter Pecan Syrup copycat recipe delivers everything you love about the original—richness, nuttiness, buttery sweetness, and that comforting dessert-like aroma. Once you try this homemade version, you’ll never wait for the seasonal release again.