Name: Strawberry Simple Syrup for Refreshing Summer Drinks
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 cups chopped ripe strawberries (Choose ripe, fully red strawberries for the best flavor.); 1 cup filtered water (Tap water can be a convenient substitute if necessary.); 1 cup granulated sugar (For a less sweet syrup, reduce to ⅔ cup or try using honey.)

As summer breezes in, the vibrancy of fresh strawberries fills the air, inviting us to savor their delightful sweetness. This Strawberry Simple Syrup recipe transforms those luscious berries into a refreshing complement for any drink. In just 30 minutes, you’ll create a delicious syrup that elevates iced teas and cocktails to new heights—perfect for backyard gatherings or lazy afternoons. Not only is this syrup a quick and easy way to capture the essence of summer, but it’s also a fantastic base to experiment with your favorite beverages. Just imagine the joy of sharing homemade strawberry-flavored drinks with family and friends! So, are you ready to dive into this sweet summer adventure and make your own Strawberry Simple Syrup?

Why Make Strawberry Simple Syrup?

Simplicity: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for spontaneous summer gatherings.

Fresh Flavor: Using ripe strawberries, you’ll infuse your drinks with an irresistible sweetness and fruity aroma.

Versatile Usage: Drizzle it over pancakes, mix it into iced tea or cocktails, or top your desserts for a delicious twist!

Crowd Pleaser: Homemade strawberry syrup will impress your friends and family, turning ordinary drinks into extraordinary creations.

For something equally delightful, check out my Baked Pesto Chicken to pair with your strawberry-infused drinks this summer!

Strawberry Simple Syrup Ingredients

For the Syrup

Strawberries – Choose ripe, fully red strawberries for the best flavor; they can also be swapped for blueberries or raspberries for a unique twist.
Filtered Water – This helps dissolve the sugar and extract the rich flavors; tap water can be a convenient substitute if necessary.
Granulated Sugar – This sweetener balances the tartness of the strawberries; for a less sweet syrup, reduce to ⅔ cup or try using honey for a different taste.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Simple Syrup

Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, over low heat, add 2 cups of chopped ripe strawberries, 1 cup of filtered water, and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Stir gently until the sugar has fully dissolved, which should take around 3-5 minutes. The mixture will start to look slightly syrupy, providing a hint of the vibrant strawberry flavor to come.

Step 2: Bring to a Boil
Increase the heat to medium and allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil, keeping a close eye on it. This should take about 1-2 minutes. Watch as bubbles begin to form and the bright color of the strawberries intensifies, signaling that the flavors are beginning to meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Simmer the Mixture
Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 20 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and use a potato masher to gently mash the strawberries as they soften. The syrup will thicken slightly, and the strawberries will break down, creating a rich and flavorful Strawberry Simple Syrup.

Step 4: Cool the Syrup
Once the 20 minutes are up, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. As it cools, the syrup will become easier to handle. The aroma of sweet strawberries will fill your kitchen, hinting at the delicious syrup ready to elevate your summer drinks.

Step 5: Strain the Syrup
Prepare a fine mesh sieve over a heat-proof bowl. Pour the syrup through the sieve, using a spatula to press the strawberries and extract as much juice as possible. The result should be a smooth, glossy liquid that captures the essence of your Strawberry Simple Syrup, devoid of any solid bits.

Step 6: Store the Syrup
Carefully transfer the strained syrup into a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Allow the syrup to cool completely at room temperature before sealing. Once cooled, store your Strawberry Simple Syrup in the refrigerator, where it will keep fresh for up to two weeks, ready to drizzle over drinks and desserts.

What to Serve with Strawberry Simple Syrup

As you whip up this luscious syrup, imagine the refreshing drinks and delightful pairings that will elevate your summer gatherings.

Iced Tea: Blend this syrup into a tall glass of chilled iced tea for a refreshing burst of flavor that complements the brew’s natural warmth.
Lemonade: Mix into lemonade for a delightful twist, adding strawberry sweetness to the tangy citrus notes. It’s summer in a glass!
Cocktails: Infuse your favorite cocktails with a splash of strawberry syrup, enhancing fruity flavors and inviting your guests to sip in style.
Pancakes: Drizzle over fluffy pancakes or waffles, turning a simple breakfast into a gourmet treat with a pop of vibrant color and taste.
Yogurt Parfaits: Fold into yogurt parfaits to add a refreshing sweetness, layering it with granola and fresh fruit for a delightful breakfast or snack.
Sparkling Water: Combine with sparkling water for a DIY strawberry soda, perfect for hot days and casual outdoor gatherings.
Cheesecake: Use as a topping for cheesecake, adding a beautiful presentation and a burst of freshness to this classic dessert.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Pour over vanilla ice cream for an effortless dessert that captures the essence of summer in each creamy bite.
Fruit Salad: Drizzle this syrup over a colorful fruit salad to unite the flavors and elevate the freshness of seasonal fruits.
Mocha or Coffee: Sweeten your morning coffee with a spoonful of strawberry syrup, transforming regular joe into a delightful summer treat.

Strawberry Simple Syrup Variations

Get ready to elevate your Strawberry Simple Syrup with these delightful twists that will tickle your taste buds!

Berry Blend: Mix strawberries with blueberries or raspberries for a colorful berry medley syrup. The vibrant hues and dynamic flavors bring an extra touch of summer fun!
Peach Perfection: Replace strawberries with ripe peaches for a sweet, juicy syrup that’s perfect over vanilla ice cream or peach-flavored cocktails.
Honey Sweetened: Substitute granulated sugar with honey to create a naturally sweetened syrup. This adds a unique floral note that pairs beautifully with herbal teas.
Lemon Zing: Add a splash of fresh lemon juice to the mixture for a citrusy kick that brightens up the syrup! The tartness will balance the sweetness and make your drinks pop with flavor.
Basil Infusion: Toss in a few fresh basil leaves while simmering to infuse your syrup with a herby twist. It’s a surprising yet refreshing addition, perfect for cocktails!
Spicy Strawberry: Add sliced jalapeños during the simmering stage for a sweet and spicy combination. The heat level can be adjusted based on your preference, making your drinks truly memorable.
Vanilla Bean: Scrape the seeds from a vanilla bean pod into the pot for an aromatic, luxurious flavor. It elevates everyday drinks into something quite special!
Minty Fresh: Incorporate fresh mint leaves while cooking for a refreshing mint-strawberry syrup. Ideal for enhancing mojitos or iced teas, it evokes those lovely summer garden vibes.

With these variations, your homemade syrup will cater to every taste bud. For more delicious ideas, consider mixing it into your iced tea or try it out with my delightful Strawberry Shortcake Cinnamon Rolls for a sweet treat!

How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Simple Syrup

Fridge: Store your Strawberry Simple Syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, ensuring it stays fresh and ready for your favorite drinks.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the syrup in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a resealable plastic bag, where they can last for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When you’re ready to use the frozen syrup, simply pop a cube into a glass, stir into your iced tea or cocktails, and enjoy the vibrant summer flavor!

Room Temperature: It’s best not to store Strawberry Simple Syrup at room temperature, as it may spoil quickly without proper refrigeration.

Expert Tips for Strawberry Simple Syrup

Fresh Ingredients: Always use ripe strawberries for the best aroma and flavor; unripe berries can result in a bland syrup.
Adjust Sweetness: If you desire a less sweet syrup, simply reduce the sugar to ⅔ cup or experiment with honey as a natural alternative.
Strain Wisely: Strain the syrup according to your preference—pressing harder yields a smooth syrup, while less straining leaves delightful bits of strawberry.
Storage Awareness: Store your Strawberry Simple Syrup in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness for up to 2 weeks.
Freeze for Later: For longer storage, consider freezing the syrup in ice cube trays, making it easy to add a pop of flavor to drinks anytime!

Make Ahead Options

These Strawberry Simple Syrup are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the syrup up to 3 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and flavorful. To do this, simply follow the initial steps of combining the strawberries, water, and sugar, then strain and cool the syrup completely before transferring it to the jar. This way, you can simply pull it out as needed for drizzling over drinks or desserts! Just remember to give it a good stir before serving to revive that luscious flavor—your homemade strawberry syrup will be just as delicious and ready to elevate any summer gathering!

Strawberry Simple Syrup Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe strawberries?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are fully red, firm, and fragrant, without any dark spots or signs of mold. These will provide the freshest flavor for your syrup. If ripe strawberries aren’t available, you can substitute them with blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches for a delightful twist!

What’s the best way to store Strawberry Simple Syrup?
Store your Strawberry Simple Syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation from developing, which can affect its taste and quality.

Can I freeze Strawberry Simple Syrup?
Certainly! For long-term storage, pour the syrup into ice cube trays and freeze. Once the cubes are solid, transfer them to a resealable plastic bag. This way, they’ll last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just pop a cube into your drink for an instant summer flavor boost!

What should I do if my syrup is too sweet?
If you find your syrup too sweet for your taste, you can dilute it by mixing in a little extra filtered water until desired sweetness is achieved. Alternatively, you can reduce the sugar in the recipe next time to ⅔ cup or substitute with honey for a different flavor profile.

Is the syrup safe for pets or those with allergies?
While the ingredients in Strawberry Simple Syrup are generally safe for humans, it’s best to avoid giving syrup to pets, especially due to the sugar content. For allergies, ensure that no one has sensitivities to strawberries or any sweeteners used in the recipe. Always consult with a physician if unsure!

How do I troubleshoot a watery syrup?
If your syrup turns out watery, it might be due to undercooking or not mashing the strawberries enough. To remedy this, return the syrup to the saucepan and simmer it on low heat for additional time, stirring frequently until it thickens to your liking. Just keep an eye on it to avoid burning!