Learn how to make strawberry syrup for drinks (aka strawberry simple syrup), and how to use it for crafting flavorful non-alcoholic drinks and cocktails.
I love strawberries, so I can’t wait to share this easy and delicious recipe with you! This homemade strawberry syrup captures the sweet, sun-ripened flavor of fresh berries and is perfect for adding a fruity touch to your favorite drinks.
Making your own strawberry syrup is surprisingly simple. This versatile syrup is a must-try if you love sweet, refreshing drinks—especially those made with real, natural ingredients—this versatile syrup is a must-try!
How to Make Strawberry Syrup for Drinks: Equipment & Ingredients
What you’ll need for this recipe:
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Fine mesh strainer
- Mason jar or plastic container
Ingredients
- 2 Cups Fresh Strawberries
Since strawberries are the star of this recipe, it’s best to use fresh local ones for the best flavor. I love using in-season strawberries because they are naturally sweeter and more vibrant. But if fresh, flavorful strawberries aren’t available, frozen ones are a great alternative since they are picked and frozen at peak ripeness.
- 1/2 to 2/3 Cup Granulated Sugar
If you like a slightly tart syrup, go with a lower amount of sugar. Using more sugar will make the syrup thicker and help it last longer. Personally, I like to use ½ cup.
- Water
Simple syrup is usually made with a 1:1 ratio of water and sugar. If you want a sweeter syrup, add more sugar than water. Prefer a lighter sweetness? Just use more water instead.
Instructions for Making Strawberry Simple Syrup
- Wash the container with soap and hot water, and then rinse it well. To ensure it’s completely clean, pour boiling water into it twice before using.
- Wash the strawberries, then remove the green tops.
- If the strawberries are smaller than an inch, cut them in half; if they are larger, quarter them. Then, add them to a saucepan with the sugar and water.
- Heat the mixture over medium-high until it starts boiling, stirring to make sure the sugar dissolves. Once it boils, turn the heat down low and let it simmer.
- Take the saucepan off the heat, cover it with a lid, and let it sit for 15 minutes so the strawberries can release all their flavor.
- Slowly pour the warm strawberry syrup through a fine-mesh strainer into a medium bowl. Let it drain for about 10 minutes (be patient and let gravity do the work.) Avoid pressing the strawberries; we want a smooth syrup without any fruit bits.
- Let the syrup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a clean, airtight container and store it in the fridge.
Serving Suggestions for How to Make Strawberry Syrup for Drinks
- Cocktails and Mocktails: Give your cocktails and mocktails a sweet strawberry boost! Try it in drinks like strawberry margaritas, mojitos, daiquiris, or even lemonade. Keeping some around for all the refreshing summer sips ahead is always a good idea.
- Water and Tea: Stir a splash of strawberry simple syrup into plain water, sparkling water, or iced tea for a refreshing, flavorful drink.
Conclusion
In a world full of store-bought shortcuts, nothing beats the taste of homemade strawberry simple syrup made with fresh, in-season berries. There’s just something satisfying about crafting it yourself using real ingredients, adding a burst of authentic flavor to your drinks that store-bought versions just can’t match. Plus, you get the bonus of knowing exactly what’s in it without any of the unnecessary additives or preservatives.
