Cranberry Simple Syrup

5 from 1 vote

This Cranberry Simple Syrup is a vibrant, ruby-red syrup created from fresh or frozen cranberries, sugar, and water. Its tart yet sweet flavor profile makes it the perfect addition for adding a festive touch to cocktails, mocktails, or desserts.

Prep Time5

Cook Time12

Total Time17

Course: Drinks

Cuisine: American

Servings: oz

Calories: 9kcal

Author: Nataša

Equipment

medium-size pot
measuring cups
mesh strainer
spoon
Small funnel

Ingredients

1 cup water
1 cup organic cane sugar
2 cups cranberries (fresh or frozen)

Instructions

Wash and prepare the cranberries, ensuring there are no spoiled ones.
Add water, sugar, and cranberries to a medium-sized pot and heat on medium-high until the cranberries start to pop and burst.
Lower the heat to medium-low and let simmer. The total cooking time is 12 minutes.
Remove from heat and let cool for 20 minutes.
Using a fine-mesh strainer, strain the syrup into a measuring bowl. Press the cooked cranberries slightly with a spoon to extract as much syrup as possible. Let cool completely.
Transfer the cooled syrup into a jar or syrup dispenser using a small funnel. Seal and store in a fridge for up to 3-4 weeks.

Notes

Cranberry Alternatives: Use other berries, such as raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries, for a different berry flavor profile while maintaining the syrup's vibrant color. Try other delicious syrups with vibrant colors, such as this blackberry simple syrup, blueberry simple syrup, peach simple syrup, raspberry simple syrup, or strawberry simple syrup.
Use Another Sweetener: When adding sweetness to your recipe, opt for honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar. Keep in mind that these sweeteners can change the flavor and texture of your dish. You can use them in equal measure to sugar or modify the amount based on your taste when replacing them with honey or maple syrup. However, if you choose agave nectar, use a little less, as it is sweeter than sugar.
Add Spices: To spice up the syrup, add spices like cinnamon, cloves, or ginger. The flavor notes pair very well, making it perfect for winter beverages and desserts.
Use Fresh or Frozen Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are perfect, but frozen cranberries also work well. You don't need to thaw them before using them; just add them directly to the pot.
Simmer, Don’t Boil: Ensure the mixture simmers gently and avoids bringing it to a full boil. Boiling can cause the cranberries to break down too quickly, resulting in syrup with an overly cooked taste.
Use a Small Funnel for Transfer: To avoid spilling, pour the syrup into a jar or dispenser using a small funnel.

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