Easy Strawberry Simple Syrup
This Easy Strawberry Simple Syrup is a homemade delight perfect for pancakes, waffles, and to top on desserts like ice cream. Made with just 5 ingredients in under 20 minutes!
It’s strawberry season and I have been coming up with so many new recipes! Sweet, fruity, and absolutely irresistible — this Easy Strawberry Simple Syrup is the perfect homemade touch to elevate your favorite breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Whether you’re drizzling it over pancakes with whipped cream, swirling it into lemonade, or topping ice cream, this syrup is a total game-changer and the best part of summer!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Made with just 5 ingredients – Nothing fancy here! Just pantry basics and fresh strawberries.
Versatile and delicious – Great for everything from brunch spreads to drinks and desserts.
Better than store-bought – No strange mystery ingredients!
Ingredients
- Strawberries – Fresh or frozen both work well. Hull and chop them up.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and helps preserve the syrup.
- Lemon Juice – Adds brightness and enhances the strawberry flavor.
- Cornstarch – Thickens the syrup slightly for a rich, glossy texture.
- Cold Water – Helps dissolve the cornstarch evenly.
*See the printable recipe card at the bottom of the page for detailed instructions and a list of ingredients.
How To Make Strawberry Simple Syrup
- Simmer: Add strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice to a saucepan and cook until the strawberries break down. This usually takes me about 10–15 minutes on medium heat.
- I like to mash the strawberries a few times with a potato masher to make them break down quicker.
- Make the Slurry: Mix cornstarch with cold water and then add it to the bubbling pan. Stir it until it thickens. This usually only takes a minute or two.
- Cool: Let cool and transfer to a glass jar or bottle.
Strawberry Simple Syrup Uses
This syrup is super versatile! Try it on:
- Pancakes, waffles, or French toast for a fruity brunch twist.
- Ice cream as a dreamy dessert topping.
- Yogurt or oatmeal for a flavorful breakfast.
- Mixed into lemonade or tea for a burst of berry goodness.
Storage Options
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Freeze for up to 6 months in ice cube trays or glass mason jars.
- Pro Tip: Shake or stir before using, especially if it thickens slightly in the fridge.
Helpful Tips
Use ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor.
Don’t skip the lemon juice — it enhances the natural strawberry taste.
For a thinner syrup, reduce or omit the cornstarch.
Want it smooth? Strain the syrup with a mesh sieve.
More Delicious Strawberry Recipes
Did you try this recipe? If so, please leave a ⭐ review and comment below and tag me @whiskfulcooking on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube!
Easy Strawberry Simple Syrup
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries hulled and diced (see notes for frozen)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup cold water
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Simmer over medium heat for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries are soft and broken down.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water.
- Pour the slurry into the saucepan and stir well. Cook for 1–2 minutes more, or until the syrup thickens slightly. (It will continue to thicken as it cools)
- Optional: For a smooth syrup, strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove strawberry solids. Skip this step if you prefer it chunky.
- Allow the syrup to cool completely. Pour into a clean jar and allow to cool before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- Mash the strawberries a few times with a potato masher to help the strawberries break down more easily.
- For a thinner syrup, reduce or omit the cornstarch.
- Frozen strawberries can be used in place of fresh. Add more cook time and double the cornstarch slurry if necessary to help thicken the syrup.
- Store in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 6 months.
