Blood Orange Simple Syrup

Blood orange syrup in dispenser surrounded with fresh blood oranges.

5 from 1 vote

This Blood Orange Simple Syrup is a vibrant, citrusy sweetener with a striking ruby-red color. Made with fresh blood orange juice, sugar, and water, it’s perfect for cocktails, mocktails, iced tea, lemonade, and even drizzling over pancakes or desserts. Quick to make and packed with bold citrus flavor, it's a must-have for the winter citrus season!

Prep Time2

Cook Time12

Cooling time20

Total Time34

Course: Drinks

Cuisine: American

Servings: oz

Calories: 403kcal

Author: Nataša

Equipment

Small saucepan
fine mesh strainer
Measuring bowl
Jar or syrup dispenser

Ingredients

1 cup water
½ cup sugar
2 blood oranges (juice)
1 blood orange (wheels)

Instructions

Combine Ingredients in a Pot: Add ½ cup of sugar and 1 cup of water in a medium saucepan. Juice 2-3 blood oranges directly into the pot, making sure to catch any seeds. Add thinly sliced blood orange wheels for extra flavor and infusion.
Dissolve the Sugar: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and stir occasionally until the sugar fully dissolves, about 2-3 minutes.
Simmer Gently: Lower the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer (not boil) for about 10 minutes, allowing the orange slices to release their oils and deepen the flavor. Stir occasionally but avoid vigorous boiling.
Cool and Strain (Optional): Remove the saucepan from heat and let the syrup cool for 15-20 minutes. If you prefer a smooth syrup, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the orange slices and any pulp.
Store Properly: Use a small funnel to transfer the syrup into a clean glass jar or bottle. Seal tightly and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

Adjust the Sweetness: This recipe uses 1 cup of water, ½ cups of fresh blood orange juice, and ½ cups of sugar for a harmonious sweetness. You can modify the sugar quantity according to your taste—reduce it for a lighter syrup or increase it for a deeper, thicker texture.
Simmer Gently: Maintain a gentle simmer to avoid bitterness from the orange peels while keeping the vibrant citrus flavor intact.
Enhance the Color Naturally: While simmering, add a splash of pomegranate juice or a few crushed raspberries for a deeper red hue.
Straining is Optional: Remove the orange wheels and pulp before storing for a smoother syrup. Keeping them in will enhance the flavor infusion over time.
Storage Tip: Store in an airtight jar in the fridge for two to three weeks. For extended storage, freeze in ice cube trays and defrost when necessary.
Use a Small Funnel: When pouring the syrup into a storage bottle, use a small funnel to prevent spills and simplify the process.

Nutrition