Raspberry Syrup
Bar Prep • syrup
Description
A bright, fresh raspberry simple syrup made with fresh or frozen raspberries. Use in cocktails, mocktails, sodas, or desserts. Balanced sweetness with clean fruit flavor; optional thicker (2:1) variant noted.
History
Fruit syrups (cordials) have been used for centuries to preserve and concentrate seasonal flavors for beverages. Raspberry syrup is a modern bar and kitchen staple for adding fresh berry character to drinks and desserts.
Instructions
Step 1.
1) Ingredients: 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries (about 125 g), 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 cup water, 1 tsp fresh lemon juice (optional, brightens flavor and helps preservation).
Step 2.
2) Combine the raspberries, sugar, and water in a small saucepan over medium heat.
Step 3.
3) Stir until the sugar dissolves, then bring to a gentle simmer. Use a spoon or potato masher to break up the berries as they heat.
Step 4.
4) Simmer gently for 5–8 minutes until the mixture is fragrant and slightly thickened; do not boil vigorously (this can dull fresh flavor).
Step 5.
5) Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice if using. Let cool 5–10 minutes.
Step 6.
6) Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean container, pressing on the solids with the back of a spoon to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard solids (or reserve for another use).
Step 7.
7) Cool to room temperature, transfer to a sterilized bottle or jar, seal, and refrigerate.
Step 8.
8) Optional variations: For a thicker, more concentrated syrup for cocktails, use a 2:1 ratio (2 cups sugar to 1 cup water) and proceed the same way. To extend refrigerated life by a couple of weeks, add 1 tablespoon vodka per cup of finished syrup as a preservative (this will make it slightly alcoholic).
Storage
Keep refrigerated in an airtight, sterilized bottle or jar. Use within 14 days for best flavor and safety. For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Optionally add 1 tbsp vodka per cup to extend refrigerated life by ~2–3 weeks.