Easy Strawberry Simple Syrup a versatile recipe that belongs in every farmhouse kitchen. Whether drizzled over breakfast favorites, stirred into refreshing drinks, or used to finish off desserts, this homemade strawberry syrup delivers fresh flavor and a touch of homemade charm in every spoonful.
There’s something so satisfying about turning a handful of fresh strawberries into something you’ll reach for all week long. Strawberry syrup is one of those small kitchen projects that feels a little old‑fashioned in the best way. A few ingredients, a gentle simmer on the stove, and a sweet reward at the end.
Around our homestead, this syrup is a favorite for flavoring drinks, drizzling over pancakes, and adding a touch of strawberry goodness to desserts.
Whether you’re preserving extra berries from the garden, making use of a great sale at the store, or just craving a naturally flavored syrup without artificial colors, this homemade strawberry simple syrup is easy, versatile, and incredibly flavorful.
You can even make this with frozen berries.
What Is Strawberry Simple Syrup?
Strawberry simple syrup is made by simmering strawberries, sugar, and water until the berries release their juices and the liquid becomes lightly thickened and fragrant. The strawberries are then strained out, leaving behind a smooth, ruby‑red syrup that can be used in drinks, desserts, and breakfast recipes.
Unlike store‑bought syrups, homemade strawberry syrup lets you control the sweetness and avoid unnecessary additives. Just real fruit and pantry staples.
What Texture Should Strawberry Syrup Have?
Homemade strawberry syrup has a lighter texture than jam or pancake syrup. It should pour easily and add flavor without being overly thick.
A few things to keep in mind:
- The syrup will thicken slightly as it cools
- Longer simmering creates a more concentrated syrup
- If it thickens too much after chilling, gently warm and stir before using
Because strawberries vary in juiciness, the final thickness can change slightly from batch to batch. And that’s part of the charm of making it from scratch.
How to Make the Best Strawberry Simple Syrup: Fresh & Easy
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Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 Pound Fresh Strawberries hulled and sliced, see notes for how many cups
- 1 Cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 Cup Water
- Optional: 1 teaspoon lemon juice brightens flavor and helps preserve color
Instructions
- Wash, hull, and slice the strawberries. Smaller pieces help release more flavor during cooking.1 Pound Fresh Strawberries
- In a medium saucepan, add the strawberries, sugar, and water. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to low. Simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries are soft and the syrup is fragrant and slightly thickened.1 Cup Granulated Sugar, 1 Cup Water
- Lightly mash the strawberries with a spoon or potato masher to release more juice. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl or measuring cup, pressing gently on the solids. Discard or compost the strawberry pulp.
- Stir in lemon juice if using. Let the syrup cool completely before transferring to a clean jar or bottle.Optional: 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Notes
How Many Cups in a Pound of Strawberries?
- Whole, hulled strawberries: about 2½ to 3 cups
- Sliced strawberries: about 3 to 4 cups
- Chopped strawberries: closer to 4 cups
Tips for the Best Strawberry Syrup
- Use ripe strawberries for the best flavor and color. Overripe berries work beautifully here.
- Don’t rush the simmer. A gentle heat helps extract flavor without scorching the sugar.
- Adjust sweetness by adding a little more sugar for a thicker, sweeter syrup or a splash of water if it’s too strong for your taste.
Strawberry Simple Syrup Variations
- Strawberry Vanilla Syrup. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract after straining.
- Strawberry Mint Syrup. Add a small handful of fresh mint leaves during the last 5 minutes of simmering.
- Honey Strawberry Syrup. Replace part of the sugar with honey for a softer sweetness.
How to Wash Strawberries Properly
Before using strawberries, gently wash them to remove dirt and residue.- Place strawberries in a colander and rinse under cool running water.
- Gently rub the surface of each berry with your fingers.
- Do not soak strawberries, as they absorb water and can lose flavor.
- Pat dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Hull and slice after washing.
Nutrition
How to Use Strawberry Simple Syrup
This syrup is incredibly versatile. Here are a few favorite ways to enjoy it:
- Stir into lemonade, iced tea, or sparkling water
- Add to cocktails or mocktails
- Drizzle over pancakes, waffles, or French toast
- Spoon over vanilla ice cream or cheesecake
- Swirl into yogurt or oatmeal
- Use as a flavoring for whipped cream or frosting
Can You Use the Leftover Strawberry Pulp?
Yes! Don’t throw away the strained strawberry pulp—there’s still plenty of flavor left, and it’s a wonderful way to reduce waste in the kitchen.
Here are a few simple ways to use it:
- Stir it into yogurt, oatmeal, or overnight oats
- Spoon it over toast, biscuits, or English muffins
- Blend it into smoothies or milkshakes
- Use it as a topping for ice cream or pound cake
- Mix a little into whipped cream for extra strawberry flavor
The texture will be soft and spoonable. Similar to crushed berries. Store leftover pulp in an airtight container in the refrigerator and use within 2–3 days.
How to Store Strawberry Simple Syrup
Store strawberry simple syrup in an airtight jar or bottle in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
For longer storage, you can:
- Freeze it in small jars or ice cube trays for up to 6 months. Thaw as needed.
- Reheat gently if the syrup thickens too much in the fridge—just warm it slightly and stir.
Can You Make This with Frozen Strawberries?
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 straight to the saucepan and proceed with the recipe.
Can You Can Strawberry Simple Syrup?
It’s not recommended. Because this recipe has a lower acid content, it’s best suited for refrigerator or freezer storage. If you’re interested in shelf‑stable canning, look for a tested, high‑acid syrup recipe specifically designed for water bath canning.
A Simple Homestead Staple
Strawberry simple syrup is one of those small, from‑scratch recipes that feels right at home. It’s practical, flexible, and a lovely way to stretch a bowl of berries into something special. Make it once and you’ll likely find yourself keeping a jar in the fridge all summer long.
My family loved this!