Strawberry Simple Syrup

Make homemade strawberry simple syrup with just three main ingredients. This easy recipe is perfect for sweetening drinks, cocktails, lemonade, and desserts. Use fresh or frozen strawberries for a natural fruity flavor. Ideal for summer recipes, this syrup adds color and sweetness to teas, sodas, and breakfast dishes. Store it in the fridge and use it in everything from mocktails to cake layers.

This homemade strawberry simple syrup is quick to make and packed with natural berry flavor. It’s perfect for adding a sweet, fruity touch to drinks, desserts, and more.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (200g) white sugar
• 1 cup (236g) water
• 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries, hulled and halved
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, strawberries, and lemon juice.
2. Place over medium-high heat and stir occasionally until the mixture comes to a gentle simmer.
3. Continue simmering until the sugar is completely dissolved and the syrup turns slightly translucent, about 5–10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and strain through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl or measuring cup, pressing gently on the strawberries to extract extra juice.
5. Discard the solids, then pour the syrup into a clean, airtight container or mason jar.
6. Let cool to room temperature before sealing and refrigerating.

Tips

• Use ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor.
• Stir occasionally to prevent sugar from settling or burning.
• For a more vibrant color, use fresh strawberries if available.
• Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks in a sealed container.

Variations and Substitutions

• Berry Options: Swap strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries.
• Sweeteners: Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a natural alternative.
• Flavor Boosts: Add a sprig of mint, basil, or a slice of fresh ginger while simmering, then strain.
• Citrus Zest: Add lemon or orange zest for a bright twist.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, frozen strawberries work just as well. No need to thaw them beforehand.

How long does strawberry syrup last?
Up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

Can I skip the lemon juice?
Lemon juice enhances flavor and helps preserve the syrup, but it can be omitted if needed.

Can I make this sugar-free?
Yes, you can use a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener, but the texture and flavor may differ slightly.

Serving Suggestions

• Stir into lemonade, iced tea, or cocktails like mojitos or margaritas.
• Drizzle over pancakes, waffles, or French toast.
• Use as a topping for ice cream, cheesecake, or yogurt.
• Mix into sparkling water for homemade strawberry soda.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy—ready in under 15 minutes.
• Versatile—great for drinks, desserts, and breakfast dishes.
• Naturally flavored—uses real strawberries for fresh, fruity taste.
• Customizable—adjust sweetness and flavors to match your preferences.

Strawberry Simple Syrup

Servings

2

servings

Prep time

5

minutes

Cooking time

10

minutes

Ingredients

• 1 cup (200g) white sugar

• 1 cup (236g) water

• 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries, hulled and halved

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Directions

• In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, strawberries, and lemon juice.
• Place over medium-high heat and stir occasionally until the mixture comes to a gentle simmer.
• Continue simmering until the sugar is completely dissolved and the syrup turns slightly translucent, about 5–10 minutes.
• Remove from heat and strain through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl or measuring cup, pressing gently on the strawberries to extract extra juice.
• Discard the solids, then pour the syrup into a clean, airtight container or mason jar.
• Let cool to room temperature before sealing and refrigerating.