Name: Strawberry Syrup
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs strawberries (hulled and diced small); 1 Tbsp lemon juice (fresh); 6 - 8 Tbsp granulated sugar (to taste); 4 Tbsp water (divided); 1 Tbsp cornstarch

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There’s something truly magical about making your own Strawberry Syrup. I still remember the first time I tried it, the sweet aroma filling the kitchen as the strawberries simmered away. It was a sunny Saturday morning, and I couldn’t wait to pour that vibrant, ruby-red syrup over pancakes. Every drizzle was a burst of summer flavors that took me back to childhood, where breakfast was an event. Homemade syrup isn’t just a topping; it’s an experience, a way to transform simple meals into something unforgettable.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
15 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
50 kcal

Protein:
0 g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP

Fat:
0 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Whisk, Cutting Board, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan, Large Pot

Why This Strawberry Syrup Hits Different

Fresh Ingredients Matter

First and foremost, using fresh strawberries makes all the difference. The flavor is unmatched, and you can taste the love that goes into it. When you bite into a pancake topped with Strawberry Syrup, you want that sweet, fruity burst that only real fruit can provide.

Customizable Sweetness

One of my favorite parts about this recipe is how you can adjust the sweetness. If you prefer a lighter syrup, just use less granulated sugar. It’s all about balancing flavors to suit your palate, and that flexibility makes this syrup your own.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This syrup isn’t just for breakfast. Imagine drizzling it over a scoop of vanilla ice cream or using it as a layer in a cake. The versatility of Strawberry Syrup makes it a fantastic addition to your kitchen staples.

Quick and Easy

With only a handful of ingredients, making Strawberry Syrup is not only simple, but it also takes minimal time. In about 15 minutes, you can have a delightful homemade syrup that will elevate any dish.

Store It for Later

Once you’ve made your syrup, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Knowing that a homemade treat is just a spoonful away brings a smile to my face. You can whip up a quick breakfast in no time!

Healthier Alternative

By making your own syrup, you can avoid artificial flavors and preservatives found in many store-bought options. You control what goes into your syrup, making it a healthier alternative. Plus, you get to bask in the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch!

What You’ll Need for Strawberry Syrup

To create a luscious Strawberry Syrup, we need a few essential ingredients that work harmoniously together. Each one plays a key role in building flavor and texture. From the fresh strawberries to the cornstarch that helps thicken the syrup, every ingredient is vital for that perfect drizzle.

2 lbs fresh strawberries, hulled and diced small: These juicy strawberries are the star of the show, providing natural sweetness and vibrant color.
1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice: A splash of lemon juice brightens the flavor and balances the sweetness of the strawberries.
6 – 8 Tbsp (78 g) granulated sugar, to taste: This ingredient sweetens the syrup. Adjust according to your preference!
4 Tbsp (60 ml) water, divided: The water helps to cook down the strawberries and create that perfect syrupy consistency.
1 Tbsp (10 g) cornstarch: This works as a thickening agent to achieve that luscious syrup texture.

Recipe Directions for Strawberry Syrup

Making your own Strawberry Syrup is not only rewarding but also incredibly easy! Just follow these steps to transform fresh strawberries into a delightful syrup. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is!

In a medium saucepan, combine the hulled and diced strawberries, lemon juice, granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons of water. Place it over medium-high heat. As the mixture heats, stir frequently, allowing the strawberries to release their juices. You’ll notice the vibrant red color starting to deepen as they cook.
Once it comes to a boil, reduce the heat slightly. Allow it to bubble away gently for about 5 to 6 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally. During this time, the strawberries will soften and release more juices, creating a beautiful mixture.
While the strawberries are cooking, take a small bowl and whisk together the remaining 2 tablespoons of water and cornstarch until smooth. This will help thicken your syrup.
After the strawberries have softened, pour the cornstarch mixture into the saucepan. Stir continuously for 1 minute as it cooks. You’ll see the mixture start to thicken, turning into a glossy syrup.
Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool slightly. The syrup will continue to thicken as it cools.
Transfer the Strawberry Syrup to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing.

Things Worth Knowing

Texture Matters: The syrup should have a smooth consistency, free of lumps. If it’s too thick, you can add a bit more water to thin it out.
Freshness is Key: Always use fresh strawberries for the best flavor. Frozen strawberries can work, but they may alter the syrup’s consistency.
Watch the Heat: Be cautious with the heat when simmering; too high can burn the strawberries and alter the flavor.
Cool Completely: Allow the syrup to cool completely before storing. This helps maintain the freshness and flavor.

Expert Tips about Strawberry Syrup

Creating the perfect Strawberry Syrup can be made even easier with these expert tips. Whether you’re looking to enhance flavors or store your syrup effectively, I’ve got you covered!

Storage: Store your Strawberry Syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to three days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Freezing: If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the syrup in ice cube trays. Just pop them out and store in a zip-top bag for quick access.
Pairing: This syrup is delicious drizzled over pancakes, waffles, and yogurt. You can also mix it into smoothies for a fruity twist.
Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding herbs like mint or basil for a unique flavor. A touch of vanilla or almond can also create delightful variations.
Thicker Syrup: If you prefer a thicker syrup, you can add an extra tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water.

Perfect Pairings for Strawberry Syrup

Serving your Strawberry Syrup is all about creativity! Here are some ideas to make your meals even more exciting:

Pancakes and Waffles: The classic pairing! Drizzle your Strawberry Syrup generously over fluffy pancakes or waffles for a delightful breakfast.
Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream topped with Strawberry Syrup is a heavenly dessert that’s perfect for hot days.
Yogurt Parfaits: Layer Strawberry Syrup with yogurt and granola to create a refreshing parfait.
Cakes: Use Strawberry Syrup to moisten cake layers or as a topping for cakes and cupcakes.
Drinks: Add a spoonful to sparkling water or cocktails for a refreshing twist.
Seasonal Treats: Ideal for spring and summer gatherings, this syrup brings a touch of sweetness to any occasion.

FAQ

Absolutely! While fresh strawberries offer the best flavor, you can use frozen ones if they are all you have. Just keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different, and you might need to adjust the cooking time since frozen strawberries will release more liquid.

Your homemade Strawberry Syrup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in ice cube trays for quick access later.

Strawberry Syrup is incredibly versatile! You can drizzle it over pancakes, waffles, and ice cream. It also makes a delightful addition to smoothies, yogurt parfaits, and desserts. Get creative!

Yes! One of the best parts of making your own Strawberry Syrup is that you can adjust the sweetness to your liking. Start with less sugar and taste as you go. You can always add more if you prefer a sweeter syrup.

Conclusion

The homemade Strawberry Syrup is truly a game-changer for your breakfasts and desserts. With its fresh flavor and delightful sweetness, it elevates any dish it touches. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the joy of creating something delicious from scratch. You’ll find that once you make your own syrup, there’s no going back to store-bought!