How to Make the Best Strawberry Simple Syrup: Fresh & Easy

5 from 1 vote

How to Make the Best Strawberry Simple Syrup: Fresh & Easy

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.

Prep Time15

Cook Time20

Total Time35

Course: Drinks, Sauce

Cuisine: American

Keyword: beverage recipe, citrus drink, easy recipe, fruit recipe, Preserving Food, strawberry recipe, syrup recipe

Servings: cups

Calories: 458kcal

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Equipment

Mason Jar

Jelly Jars

Weck Jar

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.

Tip: Always wash strawberries just before using them, not before storing, to help them stay fresh longer.

Nutrition