Imagine sipping on a refreshing drink that bursts with the sweet, vibrant flavor of fresh strawberries! This homemade Strawberry Syrup for Drinks is not just a treat for your taste buds; it's a game-changer for your summer beverages. In just 20 minutes, you can transform simple ingredients into a luscious syrup that elevates cocktails, sodas, and even desserts. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a quiet afternoon, this delightful syrup will have everyone asking for your secret recipe. Ready to impress? Let’s dive into the delicious world of strawberry syrup!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 cup
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your strawberries. Rinse them thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or impurities. Once clean, hull the strawberries by removing the green tops and slice them into halves or quarters, depending on their size. This will help release their juices more easily during cooking.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and water. Stir gently to mix the ingredients together, ensuring that the strawberries are evenly coated with sugar. The sugar will draw out the natural juices from the strawberries as it begins to dissolve.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent the sugar from sticking to the bottom of the pan. You want to dissolve the sugar completely and start extracting the flavors from the strawberries.
- Once the mixture reaches a simmer, reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes. During this time, the strawberries will break down, and the syrup will begin to thicken. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- After 15 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the tablespoon of lemon juice, which will add a nice brightness to the syrup and help balance the sweetness. Allow the syrup to cool for a few minutes.
- Once the syrup has cooled slightly, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean container. Use the back of a spoon to press the strawberries gently, extracting as much liquid as possible while leaving the solids behind. This will give you a smooth syrup.
- Let the syrup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a clean glass jar or bottle. Seal it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. The strawberry syrup can be used in a variety of drinks, including cocktails, sodas, or over ice cream, and it will keep for about 2-3 weeks in the fridge.
- Before using the syrup, give it a good shake or stir, as some separation may occur. Enjoy your homemade strawberry syrup in your favorite beverages!
Tips
- Choose the Right Strawberries: Opt for ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor. Look for bright red berries with a fresh aroma, and avoid any that are overly soft or have blemishes.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet syrup, feel free to reduce the amount of sugar. You can start with 3/4 cup and adjust to taste.
- Experiment with Flavor: For a unique twist, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a few mint leaves during the simmering process to infuse additional flavors.
- Straining Technique: To achieve a perfectly smooth syrup, press the strawberries gently while straining, but avoid over-mashing them to keep some texture.
- Storage Tips: Store your syrup in a sterilized glass jar or bottle to extend its shelf life. Make sure to label it with the date so you can enjoy it within the recommended 2-3 weeks.
- Versatile Uses: Beyond drinks, drizzle this syrup over pancakes, waffles, or ice cream for an added touch of sweetness. It’s also a delightful addition to yogurt or smoothies!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 827kcal
Carbohydrates: 213g
Protein: 1g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
