Vegan Butterscotch Syrup: A Sweet, Surprising Find!
I recently returned from a trip to Healdsburg, California, where I stopped by a local
favorite—Quail and Condor bakery. They introduced me to something so unexpected, I had to share it with you all: Castelvetrano olive brine transformed into a rich, sweet, and buttery butterscotch-flavored simple syrup! Yes, you read that right. Who knew the brine from these mild, buttery olives could create something so decadent and unique? Trust me, this syrup is next-level and beyond easy to make at home.
A Little Bit About Castelvetrano Olives
Castelvetrano olives, also known as Nocellara del Belice, come from Sicily and are known for their mild, buttery flavor. Unlike the stronger flavors of other olives, Castelvetrano olives are smooth and mellow, making their brine an unexpected but perfect base for a sweet syrup.
Bonus: The Surprising Flavor Profile
While you might be skeptical about using olive brine for a syrup, don’t worry—the butterscotch flavor that develops during cooking is absolutely divine and not too salty. The mild brine provides just the right hint of savory to balance the sweetness, giving you a rich, buttery, and slightly tangy syrup that’s perfect for sweet or savory dishes.
Ways to Use Vegan Butterscotch Syrup
This syrup is versatile and can be used in a variety of ways:
- Drizzle over pancakes or waffles for a sweet and savory twist.
- Add to coffee or lattes for a unique flavor boost.
- Top off your favorite desserts like ice cream, cakes, or brownies.
- Mix into cocktails or mocktails for an unexpected flavor profile (Imagine a butterscotch margarita or an olive-brine whiskey sour!).
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Now, aside from being absolutely delicious, Castelvetrano olives have some pretty cool health benefits, especially for women over 50. Olive oil and olive products are rich in monounsaturated fats, which have been shown to support brain health, reduce inflammation, and improve heart health. Incorporating more healthy fats like those in olives have been known to help lower the risk of heart disease, which is particularly important for women as they age. Plus, olive oil is rich in antioxidants that support skin hydration and may even help with reducing wrinkles!
So, not only are you getting a sweet, indulgent treat, but you’re also supporting your heart, brain, and skin—win-win!
This Vegan Butterscotch Syrup is:
- Simple & Quick: With just two ingredients and a few minutes of cooking, it’s easy to whip up.
- Unique & Versatile: The combination of sweet and savory makes it an exciting addition to both desserts and drinks.
- Naturally Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free: Perfect for anyone following specific dietary preferences or restrictions.

Vegan Butterscotch Simple Syrup
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Equipment
- sauce pan
- whisk or silicone spatula
- airtight glass jar
Ingredients
- 1 cup Castelvetrano olive brine
- 1 cup sugar
Instructions
- Combine the olive brine and sugar in a small saucepan.1 cup Castelvetrano olive brine, 1 cup sugar
- Heat over medium, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved.This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let the syrup cool.
- Transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
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More About This Recipe
Cooking Tips and Tools You’ll Need
This recipe is as easy as it gets, but here are a few tips and kitchen tools that can help you make it even better:- Saucepan with a thick bottom – Using a thick-bottomed saucepan will ensure
even heating and prevent the syrup from scorching. - Whisk or silicone spatula – A silicone spatula is my go-to for stirring. It prevents
sticking, and the wide surface helps dissolve the sugar faster. - Airtight glass jar – Storing your syrup in a glass jar keeps it fresh and makes it
easy to pour. I love using mason jars or recycled glass syrup bottles.
Nutrition
Nutritional Benefits
While this syrup is primarily a sweet treat, it has some interesting nutritional aspects:
1. Low in Calories, High in Flavor
Each serving is relatively low in calories, making it a guilt-free way to enhance the flavor of your dishes. This can be particularly helpful for women over 50 who are looking to manage calorie intake while still enjoying a touch of sweetness.
2. Dairy-Free and Vegan
Traditional butterscotch often relies on butter and cream, but this version skips the dairy entirely, making it suitable for those who are lactose intolerant or following a plant-based diet. It’s an easy way to add a vegan-friendly sweet treat to your kitchen.
3. Be Mindful of Sodium
The olive brine does add sodium to this recipe, which contributes to its savory flavor. While this can be a delicious addition to your favorite foods, it’s important to enjoy in moderation, especially for women over 50 who may be watching their sodium intake for heart health. Consider pairing it with fresh, low-sodium dishes to balance your meal.
This recipe is proof that sometimes the most unexpected ingredients can lead to the most delicious creations. If you’re looking for something different and exciting to add to your kitchen lineup, I highly recommend trying this Castelvetrano olive butterscotch syrup. Not only will it surprise your taste buds, but it’ll also give you a health boost that’s perfect for keeping your heart, skin, and brain in top shape.
Let me know in the comments if you try it out, and what creative ways you’re using it!