Step 1

In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, place the brown sugar and water. Bring mixture to a boil, while stirring, until the sugar has dissolved.

Step 2

Reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 4 minutes.

Step 3

Add the butter and stir until it has melted into the brown syrup. Turn off the heat, add the vanilla or maple extract, and stir.

Step 4

Serve immediately.

Step 5

Refrigerate leftovers in a jar and keep in the refrigerator for up to one month. To reheat, microwave in 15-second intervals, stir until the syrup is smooth, and has heated through.