Raspberry syrup is made of just two simple ingredients: raspberries and granulated sugar. It's a delightful and versatile syrup that can be used in a variety of drinks and desserts. Whether you're making a refreshing summer cocktail or adding a burst of flavor to your morning pancakes, raspberry syrup is a delicious addition.
The star of this syrup is, of course, the raspberries. You can use either fresh or frozen raspberries for this recipe, but personally, I love the bright and vibrant flavor that comes from using fresh berries. If you have access to fresh raspberries, I highly recommend using them.
When selecting your raspberries, look for ones that are plump, firm, and brightly colored. Avoid berries that are mushy or have any signs of mold. Raspberries are delicate fruits, so handle them gently to prevent any bruising.
Next, you'll need granulated sugar. The sugar acts as a sweetener and helps to preserve the raspberries, creating a syrupy consistency. The amount of sugar you'll need will depend on your personal preference and the sweetness of the raspberries. I typically use a 1:1 ratio of raspberries to sugar, but you can adjust this to suit your taste.
To make the raspberry syrup, start by rinsing your raspberries under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry gently with a paper towel. In a saucepan, combine the raspberries and sugar, stirring until the sugar has dissolved and the raspberries have released their juices.
Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the raspberries have broken down and the mixture has thickened slightly.
Once the mixture has reached your desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. You can then strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any seeds or pulp, if desired. This step is optional, as some people enjoy the added texture and flavor that the seeds provide.
Transfer the syrup into a clean, airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep for about 1-2 weeks, but I doubt it will last that long! The syrup can be used in a variety of ways – drizzle it over pancakes, waffles, or ice cream, mix it into cocktails or mocktails, or even use it as a flavoring for homemade sodas.
So there you have it – raspberry syrup made with just two simple ingredients: raspberries and granulated sugar. It's a sweet and tangy syrup that adds a burst of fruity flavor to any dish or drink. Give it a try and let your taste buds dance with delight!