This easy homemade cherry syrup is a sweet and fruity treat that brightens up pancakes, waffles, and ice cream. It’s made with fresh cherries, sugar, and a splash of lemon juice for extra zing!
I love making this syrup on lazy weekends. The smell of cherries cooking is heavenly! Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, and my family can’t get enough of it. 🍒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherries: Fresh cherries are ideal for this syrup, but frozen cherries work just as well. If you can’t find cherries, you might try other berries like blueberries or strawberries for a different flavor.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is the go-to for sweetness. If you prefer alternatives, you can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor or consider honey or maple syrup, but adjust the quantity to taste as these are sweeter.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the syrup. In a pinch, bottled lemon juice will work too. For a twist, consider lime juice, which adds a different zing.
Vanilla Extract: While optional, vanilla adds a lovely warmth. If you don’t have any, feel free to skip it or use almond extract for a different vibe.
How Do You Thicken Cherry Syrup Perfectly?
The consistency of your cherry syrup is key. To achieve the right thickness, simmer the mixture gently. It’s all about cooking it long enough to evaporate some water while cooking down the cherries. Here’s my method:
- Bring your cherry mixture to a boil first. This helps dissolve the sugar quickly.
- Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check for thickness after about 15-20 minutes. If it’s not thick enough, continue cooking a few more minutes while keeping an eye on it.
Remember, it will thicken as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a bit thin while hot!
Easy Homemade Cherry Syrup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 25-30 minutes in total. You’ll need about 10 minutes to gather and prep your ingredients, and then another 15-20 minutes to cook the syrup on the stove. After cooking, don’t forget to let it cool before storing it in the fridge.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
Start by taking a medium saucepan and adding the halved cherries, granulated sugar, and water. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together well. This is where the magic begins!
2. Cook the Mixture:
Place the saucepan on the stove over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a boil, and once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally, and you will see the cherries become soft and the syrup thicken up a bit. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen!
3. Finish with Lemon and Vanilla:
Once the mixture is done cooking, remove the pan from heat. Stir in the fresh lemon juice, and if you like, the vanilla extract. This will brighten the flavors and give your syrup that lovely depth.
4. Strain the Syrup:
Now, it’s time to strain your cherry syrup! Using a fine mesh strainer, pour the mixture into a heatproof bowl or jar. Press down on the cherries with the back of a spoon to squeeze out as much syrup as you can. You’ll be left with a delightful cherry syrup!
5. Cool and Store:
Allow your syrup to cool completely at room temperature. As it cools, it will thicken a little more. Once cool, you can transfer it into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to two weeks!
6. Enjoy!
Your homemade cherry syrup is ready! Drizzle it over pancakes, waffles, ice cream, or enjoy it as a sweetener for drinks. You’ll be amazed at how delicious it is!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Cherries Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries work great for this recipe. Just make sure you thaw them before cooking, and you can follow the same steps as using fresh cherries.
How Can I Thicken the Syrup If It’s Too Thin?
If your syrup turns out too thin, simply return it to the stove and simmer it a little longer, stirring frequently. This will help evaporate excess water and thicken the syrup to your desired consistency.
How Should I Store Leftover Cherry Syrup?
Store any leftover cherry syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to two weeks. Just make sure to give it a good stir or shake before using, as separation may occur.
Can I Use a Sweetener Other Than Sugar?
Yes! Feel free to substitute granulated sugar with alternatives like brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup. Just adjust the amount, as other sweeteners can vary in sweetness. Start with the same amount and adjust to taste.