This homemade cherry syrup is sweet, fruity, and super easy to whip up! With fresh cherries, sugar, and a splash of lemon juice, it’s perfect for pancakes or ice cream.
I love how simple it is! Just cook everything together, let it cool, and you have a delicious topping ready. It’s like bringing a little summer to your breakfast table all year round! 🍒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherries: Fresh cherries bring the best flavor, but frozen cherries work well too. If you can’t find cherries, consider using other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a different twist.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is standard, but you could swap it for honey or maple syrup for a unique taste. Just keep in mind that substitutions may affect the final sweetness and consistency.
Lemon Juice: This adds a nice zing and balances the sweetness. If you’re out of lemon juice, lime juice or even a bit of apple cider vinegar can work as substitutes.
Vanilla Extract: This is optional but enhances the flavor. If you don’t have vanilla, a splash of almond extract could be a nice alternative!
How Do You Thicken the Cherry Syrup?
The key step in ensuring your cherry syrup has the right consistency is in how you cook it. Simmering allows the natural juices to concentrate while the cherries break down. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with medium-high heat to bring the mix to a boil, then lower to a gentle simmer.
- Crush the cherries gently to help release their juices. The more juice you get out, the thicker your syrup will be.
- Allow it to simmer for 15-20 minutes. If it’s too runny after cooling, return it to the pan and simmer a bit longer.
Remember, the syrup will thicken as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a bit thin at first!
Easy Homemade Cherry Syrup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes total. It includes 15-20 minutes of cooking time and a few minutes for preparation. After cooking, you’ll want to give it some time to cool before storing, so plan for a little extra time for that as well!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, throw in the pitted cherries, water, and sugar. Stir them together so the sugar is mixed well with the other ingredients.
2. Cook the Mixture:
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring everything to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the cherries soften and the sugar dissolves!
3. Crush the Cherries:
After the mixture has simmered, take a spoon or a potato masher and gently crush the cherries. This helps release their juice and aids in thickening the syrup. It’s okay if some chunks remain if you like it that way!
4. Add Lemon and Vanilla:
Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the lemon juice and the vanilla extract if you’re using it. The lemon juice adds brightness that complements the cherries perfectly!
5. Strain the Syrup:
Let the syrup cool a little, then strain it through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a bowl or jar. Press gently on the solids to get out as much juice as possible. If you prefer a chunkier syrup, you can skip straining altogether!
6. Store the Syrup:
Transfer the cherry syrup into a clean jar or bottle and refrigerate. The syrup will continue to thicken as it cools, making it perfect for your toppings!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your homemade cherry syrup is ready! Drizzle it over pancakes, waffles, ice cream, or yogurt. You can also use it to sweeten drinks. Enjoy the deliciousness!
FAQ for Easy Homemade Cherry Syrup
Can I Use Frozen Cherries for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking to ensure they break down easily during simmering.
What Can I Use Instead of Sugar?
If you’re looking for a sugar substitute, honey or maple syrup can work well. However, be mindful that using liquid sweeteners may slightly alter the syrup’s consistency and sweetness level, so adjust according to your taste!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store your homemade cherry syrup in a clean glass jar or bottle with a tight lid. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Just give it a good stir before using as it may thicken over time.
Can I Use Other Fruits for This Syrup?
Yes! This syrup can also be made with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries. Just follow the same method, adjusting cooking times as necessary, depending on the fruit used.
