This Easy Homemade Cherry Syrup is a sweet treat! With just juicy cherries and a bit of sugar, you can whip up a delicious topping for pancakes, ice cream, or even yogurt.
I can’t resist drizzling it over waffles! It adds a pop of flavor that makes breakfast feel special. Plus, making it at home is super simple and fun!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherries: Fresh cherries are ideal for this syrup. If they’re out of season or not available, frozen cherries work perfectly too! Just make sure they’re pitted before cooking.
Sugar: Granulated sugar gives the right sweetness. You can substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor or use honey or maple syrup, adjusting the quantity to taste.
Lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice adds brightness to the syrup. If you don’t have fresh, bottled lemon juice is fine. You could also skip this if you prefer a sweeter syrup.
Vanilla extract: While optional, vanilla adds a lovely aroma. If you want to try something different, a dash of almond extract is also delicious!
Cornstarch: This is for thickening. If you want a thicker syrup but don’t have cornstarch, try using arrowroot powder instead or omit if a thinner syrup works for you.
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Cherries for Syrup?
Cooking the cherries properly is key to making a flavorful syrup. Follow these steps for great results:
- Start with medium-high heat to dissolve sugar quickly while boiling.
- Always reduce to a simmer to prevent burning; this helps the cherries break down nicely.
- Crushing the cherries releases more juice, intensifying the syrup’s flavor—don’t skip this!
- If using cornstarch for thickness, dissolve it in water first before adding it in. This prevents clumping.
How to Make Easy Homemade Cherry Syrup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 1 cup water
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thicker syrup)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20-25 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10-15 minutes cooking the cherries and about 5 minutes preparing everything. Afterwards, let it cool for a few minutes before serving or storing in the fridge. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients:
Start by adding the pitted cherries, water, and granulated sugar into a medium saucepan. Stir them together lightly to combine.
2. Bring to a Boil:
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring occasionally. This helps dissolve the sugar.
3. Simmer the Cherries:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring now and then, until the cherries soften and break down while the sugar fully dissolves.
4. Mash the Cherries:
Using a potato masher or the back of a spoon, gently crush the cherries in the saucepan. This releases their juice and adds more flavor to your syrup.
5. Add Flavorings:
Stir in the fresh lemon juice and vanilla extract if you’re using it. This adds a nice depth to the syrup!
6. Thicken the Syrup (optional):
If you prefer a thicker syrup, take the cornstarch mixed with water and stir it into the saucepan. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the syrup thickens to your liking.
7. Cool the Syrup:
Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the syrup to cool slightly. It will thicken more as it cools.
8. Strain (optional):
If you want a smooth consistency, strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve to remove any chunks of cherry. If you like it chunky, feel free to skip this step!
9. Store or Serve:
Transfer your homemade cherry syrup into a jar or bottle and store it in the refrigerator. It’s perfect for drizzling over pancakes, waffles, ice cream, or yogurt. Enjoy the vibrant taste!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Cherries for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries work just as well as fresh ones. Just ensure they are pitted, and there’s no need to thaw them before cooking. They will break down similarly when heated.
How Long Will the Cherry Syrup Last in the Refrigerator?
Your homemade cherry syrup can last in the fridge for about 2-3 weeks. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. If you notice any changes in smell or appearance, it’s best to discard it.
Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Syrup?
Yes, you can! Feel free to reduce the sugar to suit your taste. You can also use alternatives like honey or maple syrup; just adjust the quantity to achieve your desired sweetness.
How Can I Use This Cherry Syrup?
This syrup is versatile! Use it on pancakes, waffles, or French toast, drizzle over ice cream or yogurt, or mix it into cocktails or sparkling water for a refreshing drink!
