Strawberry Simple Syrup
This strawberry simple syrup recipe is incredibly easy to make. Drizzle it into coffee, cocktails, desserts, or breakfasts whenever you want a pop of real strawberry flavor.
At its core, this strawberry simple syrup is just fruit, sugar, and water but the results you’ll get feel far more special than the simplicity suggests. If you are into fruit syrups, you may also enjoy my peach simple syrup great for iced teas, pear simple syrup or apple simple syrup for fall and winter flavors, lychee simple syrup for tropical flavors a lighter melon syrup that adds subtle flavors to your treats!
Syrup ratios
This recipe follows a classic 1:1 simple syrup ratio, using equal parts sugar and water. Fresh strawberries are added generously to infuse the syrup with natural sweetness, color, and flavor. The berries soften and release their juices as the mixture simmers, creating a balanced syrup that’s not overly thick or excessively sweet.
If you want a thicker syrup more suitable for pancakes and waffles, try a 2:1 syrup ratio (2 cups sugar with 1 cup water).
Ingredients
- Fresh strawberries
- Granulated white sugar
- Water
That’s it! Just 3 ingredients and no artificial flavors or food coloring required.
How to make strawberry simple syrup
It starts with using the best fresh strawberries you can find. After washing and halving them, you add the berries to a saucepan along with sugar and water. The sugar will dissolves gently and the strawberries will slowly soften.
Stir gently and occasionally pressing the berries against the side of the pan to encourage them to release every last drop of juice. After about 15–20 minutes, the syrup will thicken slightly.
Once strained, what’s left behind is a smooth syrup that tastes like strawberries at their peak. Let it cool and bottle it up.
Flavor notes
- Sweetness: medium-high, balanced by natural strawberry acidity
- Primary note: fresh, ripe strawberry
- Secondary note: light caramelized sugar undertone
- Overall Profile: bright, fruity, and clean with a soft, jam-like finish
How to use strawberry simple syrup
Strawberry simple syrup is surprisingly versatile. Here are some favorite ways to use it:
- Cocktails & mocktails – it’s perfect for margaritas, daiquiris, lemonades, or sparkling water
- Iced Tea & lemonade – adds fruity sweetness without overpowering
- Coffee & lattes – it’s delicious in iced lattes or cold brew
- Pancakes & waffles – a fruity alternative to maple syrup
- Desserts – drizzle over cheesecake, ice cream, or pound cake
- Yogurt & Oatmeal – stir in for a naturally sweet breakfast upgrade
Storage & shelf life
Once cooled, store strawberry simple syrup in an airtight container or glass bottle in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 weeks when properly refrigerated.
For longer storage, freeze the syrup in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. Thaw as needed for drinks or desserts.
Variations
Want to change things up? Try one of these easy variations:
- Strawberry basil syrup – toss in a few fresh basil leaves for a herbal twist
- Strawberry rhubarb syrup – add rhubarb and let both simmer
- Low-Sugar version – reduce sugar slightly for a more fruit-forward syrup
- Minty strawberry syrup – add some mint leaves for a herbal depth
Frequently asked questions
Can I use frozen strawberries to make strawberry simple syrup?
Yes, frozen strawberries work well and are a great option when fresh berries aren’t in season. There’s no need to thaw them first, just add them directly to the saucepan and simmer as usual. The flavor will be slightly softer but still delicious.
How do I make strawberry simple syrup thicker?
Simple syrup is meant to be pourable, not thick like jam. For a slightly thicker texture, simmer the syrup a few minutes longer to reduce it further. Avoid adding cornstarch, as it can make the syrup cloudy and affect flavor.
Why did my strawberry syrup turn cloudy?
Cloudiness usually happens when the syrup is boiled too aggressively or stirred excessively. Keep the heat at a gentle simmer and strain carefully to maintain a clear, vibrant syrup.
Equipment
- Small saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Fine-mesh strainer or sieve
- Measuring cups
- Sterilized bottle or jar
Ingredients
- 1 cup (240 g) Strawberries fresh or frozen
- 1 cup (250 g) Sugar
- 1 cup (250 ml) Water
Instructions
- Add strawberries, sugar, and water to a saucepan.
- Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
- Simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally and lightly mashing berries.
- Remove from heat and strain through a fine-mesh sieve.
- Cool completely before storing in the refrigerator.
Notes
Did you make this recipe?
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Welcome! I’m Rakiya, a syrup enthusiast with 5 years of experience developing flavors. Every recipe is tested and refined for tasty results. My tips, variations and photos come directly from my kitchen experiments.
