It's hard to improve upon the classic combination of pancakes and maple syrup -- but it can be done if you're willing to make your own homemade flavored syrups! Each of these flavored syrup recipes results in a delectable coating that you and your guests will love drizzling over your hot pancakes. Make all three if you're planning a really special brunch.

Lemon-Raspberry Syrup

Not only does this syrup have the perfect combination of sweet and tart flavors, but it also has a luxurious, deep pink color that will make your plate look lovely.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh raspberries
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch

Press the raspberries through a sieve. Discard the seeds and pulp, and place the juice in a saucepan along with the lemon juice, sugar, and half of the water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves. Then, simmer for 5 minutes to reduce the volume slightly. In a small bowl, stir together the remaining water and the cornstarch. Add this mixture to the simmering syrup, and allow the mixture to return to a simmer. Simmer for 2 minutes or until thickened. Remove from the heat, and serve while warm.

Creamy Caramel Syrup

This syrup is made with heavy cream, so it has a velvet-smooth texture and a very rich flavor. If you have extra syrup, it tastes great on ice cream later in the day.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 3/4 cup water
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• a pinch of salt

Combine the sugar, water, and salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, and boil for about 5 minutes or until the mixture develops an amber-brown color. Remove the mixture from the heat, and stir in the heavy cream. Enjoy!

Cinnamon and Clove Syrup

This syrup will surely remind you of the holidays, but it tastes lovely any time of the year. Serve it on pumpkin pancakes for an extra special treat.

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup white sugar
• 3/4 cup water
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• a pinch of ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

Combine the sugar and water in a saucepan. Bring to boil, and boil without stirring for 5 minutes. Remove from the heat, and stir in the remaining ingredients. Keep stirring until the butter melts fully and all ingredients are completely blended together. Serve while warm.

Try other flavors from specialty syrup businesses like Monin.