The Classic Four: Your IHOP Syrup Caddy
When you sit down at an IHOP table, one of the most recognizable items is the syrup caddy, which holds four distinct flavors. These colorful, thick syrups are a staple of the IHOP experience, offering something for every palate.
Old-Fashioned Syrup
This is the classic, maple-flavored syrup that serves as the foundation for any great pancake breakfast. With a sweet, traditional taste and a thick consistency, it provides the familiar flavor that many people associate with pancakes and waffles. It's a dependable choice that perfectly complements the fluffy buttermilk pancakes IHOP is famous for.
Blueberry Syrup
For those who love a fruity topping, the Blueberry syrup is a popular pick. This bright blue syrup adds a sweet, slightly tart berry flavor to any dish. It pairs exceptionally well with pancakes, French toast, or even a side of fresh fruit.
Strawberry Syrup
Another fruity and vibrant option is the Strawberry syrup. This deep red syrup delivers a sweet, summery flavor that tastes fantastic drizzled over pancakes or used as a topping for desserts. Its sweetness is a perfect contrast to the savory notes of a classic breakfast plate.
Butter Pecan Syrup
Offering a richer, nuttier flavor profile, the Butter Pecan syrup is a favorite for many diners. This yellow-hued syrup provides a warm, buttery, and nutty taste that adds a layer of indulgence to your breakfast. It’s particularly delicious over chocolate chip pancakes or any dish where you want a richer flavor.
Beyond the Caddy: Special Request Syrups and Hacks
IHOP offers additional options if you know to ask for them, plus a neat trick to enhance your dining experience.
Sugar-Free Syrup
For guests watching their sugar intake, IHOP offers a sugar-free syrup option. While it is not typically found in the caddy on the table, it is readily available upon request from your server.
The Warm Syrup Hack
For an extra touch of comfort, you can ask your server to warm up your favorite syrup before bringing it to your table. This simple request can significantly elevate your pancake or waffle experience, creating a more decadent and comforting meal.
Discontinued Flavors: The Case of the Missing Boysenberry
Over the years, IHOP has evolved its menu and syrup offerings. One of the most-missed and talked-about syrups is the Boysenberry flavor. For years, the boysenberry syrup, with its unique and slightly tart berry flavor, was a staple in the syrup caddy. Unfortunately, IHOP has since discontinued this flavor at most of its locations, much to the dismay of loyal fans.
Bringing IHOP Home: Retail Syrups
In recent years, IHOP has partnered with Kraft Heinz to bring some of its famous flavors to grocery store shelves. This allows customers to enjoy the iconic IHOP experience from the comfort of their own homes.
IHOP Retail Flavors
- IHOP Original Syrup: This bottled version is designed to replicate the classic, sweet, maple-flavored syrup found in restaurants.
- IHOP Butter Pecan Syrup: For those who crave the nutty, buttery richness of the restaurant version, this syrup is also available in grocery stores.
Is IHOP's Maple Syrup Real?
It is important to note that the standard Old-Fashioned syrup provided at IHOP is not pure maple syrup; it is a maple-flavored syrup made primarily from corn syrup. However, IHOP has made exceptions in some regional locations. For example, when the first IHOP opened in Vermont, managers received special permission to offer real, local maple syrup to customers alongside their regular offerings.
IHOP Syrup Variety Comparison
| Syrup Flavor | Primary Flavor Profile | Availability | Best Paired With |
|---|---|---|---|
| Old-Fashioned | Classic Maple | In-restaurant caddy & retail | Pancakes, French Toast, Waffles |
| Blueberry | Sweet, Fruity Berry | In-restaurant caddy | Any breakfast item, Crepes |
| Strawberry | Sweet, Fresh Strawberry | In-restaurant caddy | Pancakes, Crepes, Ice Cream |
| Butter Pecan | Rich, Nutty, Buttery | In-restaurant caddy & retail | Chocolate Chip Pancakes, Waffles |
| Sugar-Free | Sweet, Maple | In-restaurant (by request) | Health-conscious diners' items |
| Boysenberry | Tart, Berry | Discontinued at most locations | Former fan favorite |
Conclusion
The next time you find yourself at an IHOP, you will know exactly what kind of syrups does IHOP have. While the standard four flavors in the caddy are a testament to the restaurant's legacy, the syrup options go beyond what is immediately visible. The ability to request warm syrup, the availability of a sugar-free option, and the new retail line for home use all contribute to a comprehensive syrup experience. Though a fan favorite like Boysenberry may be gone, the variety still offers something for everyone, ensuring your pancakes, waffles, or French toast are always perfectly topped. To check the latest offerings, consider visiting the official IHOP website, which lists current menu items including the syrup options.
Check out the official IHOP menu for the latest syrup caddy options.
