Homemade Strawberry Syrup is a simple and delicious way to capture the sweet, juicy flavor of fresh strawberries in a versatile syrup that’s perfect for drizzling over pancakes, waffles, ice cream, or even stirring into drinks. Made with just a few ingredients, this syrup is a wonderful way to enjoy the taste of summer all year round. Whether you’re topping your morning stack of pancakes or adding a burst of berry flavor to your favorite desserts, this strawberry syrup is sure to become a kitchen staple.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the strawberries: If using fresh strawberries, hull and chop them into small pieces. If using frozen strawberries, you can use them directly from the freezer.
- Cook the syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the strawberries, sugar, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
- Simmer: Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the strawberries have softened and the syrup has thickened slightly.
- Blend and strain (optional): For a smooth syrup, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth. If you prefer a syrup with no seeds or pulp, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl or jar, pressing down on the solids to extract as much syrup as possible.
- Add lemon juice and vanilla: Stir in the lemon juice and vanilla extract (if using) to enhance the flavor of the syrup.
- Cool and store: Allow the syrup to cool to room temperature. Transfer it to a jar or bottle with a tight-fitting lid and refrigerate. The syrup will thicken slightly as it cools.
Homemade Strawberry Syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Enjoy it drizzled over your favorite breakfast treats, desserts, or mixed into beverages for a burst of fresh strawberry flavor.
