This Easy Homemade Cherry Syrup is so sweet and fruity, you’ll love it! Made with fresh cherries, sugar, and a splash of lemon juice, it’s perfect for pancakes or ice cream.
Every time I make this syrup, I feel like a breakfast hero! 🍒 Just simmer, strain, and store it. Trust me, your waffles will thank you later!
I enjoy pouring this cherry syrup over my morning oatmeal. It’s a delightful way to start the day and super easy to make whenever cherries are in season!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherries: Fresh cherries are ideal for this syrup, but frozen ones work just as well! If you’re in a pinch, you can even try using sour cherries for a tangy twist.
Sugar: Granulated sugar brings sweetness, but feel free to use brown sugar for a richer flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, honey or maple syrup can also work, although the texture may vary.
Lemon Juice: Lemon juice adds brightness to the syrup. You can swap it with lime juice if you prefer a different tang. Just a little vinegar works too, but use it sparingly!
Vanilla Extract: This is optional, but I love adding it for extra depth. If you don’t have it, you can skip it or use almond extract instead for a unique flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Syrup Is the Right Consistency?
The key to a great syrup is to simmer it long enough to thicken but not burn it. Start with medium-high heat to bring your mixture to a boil, then lower it to medium-low. Stir occasionally and watch for the syrup to reduce. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon. If you prefer a thicker syrup, simmer it longer, testing the consistency as you go.
- Use a potato masher to really crush those cherries for more juice.
- Keep an eye on it while it cooks to prevent it from boiling over.
- Don’t skip the straining step! Pressing the solids helps create a smoother syrup.
Easy Homemade Cherry Syrup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. It includes 10 minutes for prep and around 20 minutes for cooking! After that, you’ll need a little time for cooling before you can enjoy your delicious syrup.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, add the pitted cherries, granulated sugar, and water. Stir everything together to combine well.
2. Boil and Simmer:
Turn the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer. Stir occasionally for about 15-20 minutes until the cherries become soft and the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Mash and Mix:
After simmering, remove the saucepan from the heat. Using a spoon or potato masher, gently mash the cherries to release even more delicious juice. It’s a fun way to bring out that cherry flavor!
4. Strain the Syrup:
Add the lemon juice and vanilla extract to the mixture (if you’re using it). Then, pour everything through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a bowl. Press down on the solids to get as much syrup as you can. Discard or save the solids for another use (they can be tasty in yogurt!).
5. Cool and Store:
Allow the syrup to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, transfer it to a clean jar or bottle and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Now you can enjoy your homemade cherry syrup on pancakes, waffles, ice cream, or even in cocktails. The possibilities are endless! Happy cooking! 🍒
FAQ for Easy Homemade Cherry Syrup
Can I Use Frozen Cherries Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries work just as well, and they’re often more convenient. Just make sure to let them thaw slightly before using, or follow the recipe as is; they will break down during cooking!
How Can I Make This Syrup Thicker?
If you prefer a thicker syrup, try simmering it for a little longer, about 5-10 minutes more, until it reduces to your desired consistency. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
What Should I Do with the Leftover Cherry Pulp?
The leftover cherry solids can be used in various ways! You can stir them into yogurt, oatmeal, or even bake them into muffins for added flavor. Get creative!
How Do I Store the Cherry Syrup?
Store your cherry syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in ice cube trays for easy portioning. Just thaw as needed!
