Easy Strawberry Simple Syrup: A Juicy, Vibrant Addition to Every Sweet Sip and Treat
Strawberry simple syrup is one of those kitchen staples that instantly makes anything feel a little more special. With its rich pink color, juicy flavor, and natural sweetness, it can add a pop of fruity magic to cocktails, lemonades, desserts, teas, or even your morning pancakes. Whether you’re planning a brunch, hosting a backyard gathering, or just want to elevate your iced tea, this syrup is the perfect way to bring a touch of summer into your kitchen any time of year.
This syrup is incredibly easy to make, using only a few ingredients and requiring less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Plus, it’s a great way to use up strawberries that are slightly overripe or to take advantage of frozen strawberries when fresh ones aren’t in season.
Ingredients
White Sugar
Adds sweetness and helps create a smooth syrup texture that balances the acidity of the strawberries.
Filtered Water
The base of the syrup, allowing the sugar and strawberries to blend and infuse evenly.
Strawberries
Fresh or frozen, these berries are the star of the show—adding vibrant color, juicy sweetness, and natural flavor.
Directions
- Start by washing your strawberries thoroughly. Remove the stems and slice the berries in half for even cooking.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the white sugar, filtered water, and sliced strawberries over medium heat.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Simmer the syrup for 15 minutes, allowing the strawberries to break down and infuse the liquid with flavor and color.
- Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature.
- Strain the syrup using a fine mesh strainer, pressing the strawberries gently to extract as much liquid as possible.
- Transfer the syrup into a clean, airtight container and refrigerate.
This recipe yields approximately 12 ounces of syrup and will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three weeks.
You can use either fresh or frozen strawberries in this recipe. If using frozen, let them thaw slightly before cooking.
How to Use Strawberry Syrup
Strawberry simple syrup is a versatile ingredient that shines in both sweet and savory settings. Here are just a few ways to use it:
- Cocktails & Mocktails – Add it to vodka spritzers, rum-based drinks, or non-alcoholic bubbly waters for a fruity kick.
- Iced Tea & Lemonade – Stir into black tea, green tea, or lemonade for a burst of berry flavor.
- Coffee & Lattes – Yes, strawberry syrup works beautifully in iced lattes and cold brews.
- Pancakes, Waffles & French Toast – Drizzle generously for a naturally sweet topping.
- Desserts – Use it in cakes, cheesecakes, mousse, panna cotta, or as a glaze for pastries.
- Yogurt & Smoothie Bowls – A spoonful on top of yogurt or acai bowls adds color and flavor.
- Ice Cream & Sorbet – Pour it over vanilla ice cream or lemon sorbet for a refreshing treat.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t overboil – Keep your simmer gentle to avoid burning the sugars or dulling the color of the syrup.
- Strain well – Use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth for a smooth, seed-free finish.
- Store properly – Always use a clean, airtight glass container to keep the syrup fresh and flavorful.
- Make it thicker – Simmer a bit longer or reduce the water slightly if you want a thicker consistency for drizzling.
- Add extra flavor – For a twist, add fresh basil, mint, or a splash of balsamic vinegar during the simmering process.
Substitutions and Variations
- Frozen Strawberries – A perfect alternative when fresh strawberries aren’t available.
- Add Lemon or Lime – A splash of citrus adds brightness and enhances the fruitiness.
- Use Honey or Agave – Swap out sugar for a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup.
- Spice it up – Add a pinch of ground black pepper or chili flakes for a sweet and spicy twist.
- Infuse with Herbs – Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or lavender while simmering for herbal complexity.
Your turn!
Strawberry simple syrup is a beautiful, easy, and flavorful way to elevate both everyday and special-occasion recipes. Its fresh, fruity notes bring a natural sweetness to beverages and desserts without the need for artificial ingredients. Plus, the vibrant color makes anything you add it to look instantly more appetizing. Make a batch today and discover just how many ways you can enjoy this homemade syrup—from cocktails to cake and everything in between.
I prefer to store my simple syrups in mason jars, and use lids like pour lids from Mason Jar Lifestyle. Alternatively, I also like to use these bottles which are aesthetic!
Check Out My Cookbook, Simple Syrups From Scratch!
Simple Syrups From Scratch—your go-to cookbook with 50+ simple syrup recipes. In the world of cooking and baking, simple syrups are a secret ingredient that can elevate your beverages and desserts with just a splash.
The main way I use simple syrups is in coffee, but there are so many other uses: Hot chocolate, Teas, Lemonades, Sparkling water or infused water, Cocktails or mocktails, Drizzle over pancakes or waffles, Add to overnight oats, Brush over cakes or cupcakes to add moisture or sweetness, Use syrups in frosting or glazes, Drizzle over ice cream or yogurt, Add to smoothies or milkshakes, Make salad dressings, Homemade popsicles and so much more!
Check Out My Cookbook, From Scratch!
I’m excited to share my cookbook with you, created with sustainability and flavor in mind! From Scratch is packed with delicious, eco-conscious recipes designed to nourish both you and the planet. Every dish is carefully crafted to use fresh, local ingredients, and focuses on minimizing waste while maximizing taste.
From wholesome breakfasts to hearty dinners, my cookbook offers a variety of plant-based meals that are easy to prepare and full of nutrients. Whether you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint or simply enjoy meals that are better for you and the Earth, this cookbook is your guide to eating in a way that’s both kind to the planet and satisfying to your taste buds. You can grab your copy here:
Check Out The Pantry Labels
In 2024, I released a set of Pantry Labels with recipes that are dishwasher-safe and fit the lids of mason jars perfectly.
Each labels has the recipe to refill the dry mix jar, as well as the recipe to make the item if applicable.
Strawberry Simple Syrup
Ingredients
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 cup filtered water
- 2 cups of strawberries
Instructions
- Start by washing your strawberries thoroughly. Remove the stems and slice the berries in half for even cooking.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the white sugar, filtered water, and sliced strawberries over medium heat.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Simmer the syrup for 15 minutes, allowing the strawberries to break down and infuse the liquid with flavor and color.
- Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature.
- Strain the syrup using a fine mesh strainer, pressing the strawberries gently to extract as much liquid as possible.
- Transfer the syrup into a clean, airtight container and refrigerate.
