Description
This homemade strawberry milk syrup captures the fresh taste of strawberries and is perfect for pancakes, smoothies, or refreshing strawberry milk. Easy to make and store for weeks, it adds a delightful sweetness to your favorite dishes!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for added brightness)
Instructions
- Wash the strawberries thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or pesticides.
- Hull the strawberries by removing the green tops and slice them in half. For larger strawberries, quarter them for even cooking.
- Place the sliced strawberries in a medium-sized bowl and sprinkle with a couple of tablespoons of sugar. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes to draw out their natural juices.
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Stir over medium heat until the sugar completely dissolves (about 3-5 minutes).
- Add the prepared strawberries to the saucepan. If desired, add the tablespoon of lemon juice for extra zing.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the strawberries break down and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Place a fine-mesh strainer over a bowl or another saucepan. Carefully pour the strawberry mixture into the strainer, allowing the syrup to drip through while leaving the solids behind.
- Use the back of a spoon to press down on the strawberries in the strainer to extract as much liquid as possible.
- Discard the solids left in the strainer or save them for another use, like adding to yogurt or oatmeal.
- Allow the syrup to cool to room temperature. Transfer it to a clean glass jar or bottle with a tight-fitting lid.
- Store the strawberry milk syrup in the refrigerator for about 2-3 weeks.
- To make strawberry milk, mix 2-3 tablespoons of the syrup with a glass of cold milk and stir well.
- Use the syrup in smoothies, drizzle over pancakes or waffles, or add to desserts like ice cream or cheesecake.
- For a strawberry milkshake, blend the syrup with ice cream and milk until smooth and creamy.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt or fresh mint leaves during the simmering process.
- For a thicker syrup, let it simmer longer until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Frozen strawberries can be used in the same quantity, but adjust the water as needed due to extra moisture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes