Blackberry Simple Syrup Recipe: How-To

On a summer afternoon, after collecting a bowl full of fresh blackberries, I was inspired to whip up a batch of blackberry simple syrup to enjoy the burst of fresh fruit flavor long after the season ends.

With only three simple ingredients – blackberries, sugar and water, it’s such an easy Blackberry simple syrup recipe to whip up. Once simmered until the berries burst and the liquid is deliciously sweet, it keeps year-round in the fridge and is the perfect addition to so many fall drinks, from blackberry lemonade to blackberry gin cocktails.

I love how the bright, beautiful color stains the syrup a dark purple, and how one taste of it transports me back to those lazy summer days spent foraging for berries. Ready to go and versatile, this simple syrup is sure to become a favorite in your home as you add it to everything from iced tea to pancakes and waffles all year-round.

What Is Simple Syrup?

What exactly is simple syrup? Simply put, it’s a liquid sweetener that is commonly used in both cold and hot beverages. At its most basic, simple syrup is made with just two ingredients – water and sugar – brought together in a 1:1 ratio. The sugar is dissolved into the water through a process of gentle simmering, resulting in a clear, sweet solution.

This gives drinks a smoother, more balanced sweetness compared to using granulated sugar. While simple syrup has a similar consistency and use to maple syrup or corn syrup, it’s lower in calories and made without additional thickening agents. There are also many options for flavored syrups using ingredients like fresh fruit, herbs, or spices for an extra layer of deliciousness.

Why You Will Like This Recipe

Bursting with blackberry flavor

The bursting, fresh blackberry flavor of this blackberry simple syrup is what makes it so irresistible. With each smudge you add to a cocktail or drink, it’s like getting a glimpse of sunshine on a cloudy day. Think of all the loads of fresh blackberry flavor it will add to your favorite cocktails and other drinks! You’ll love how it makes everything from lemonade to seltzers taste like you spent all afternoon foraging for berries.

Much better than store-bought syrup

While store-bought syrups are handy, they rely on fake extracts and funky chemicals to mimic real fruit flavors. With this simple syrup, you know exactly what you’re getting – real blackberry flavor from real ingredients. It’s superior to the bottle-bought alternatives.

No advanced skills required

And the best part is, you don’t need any advanced skills – just boil water and stir in sugar to have a simple syrup ready to use. No skills are required beyond being able to boil water!

Prepare ahead of serving time

For entertaining or lazy days, it’s also great to have some syrup prepared ahead of time. Make it well in advance and chill it before serving for ultra refreshing drinks whenever a craving strikes. The flavor only gets better as it steeps.

Ingredients

Want to bottle the sunshine flavors of summer? Then these tasty ingredients are what you need:

Note: Use those berries that are on their last leg – those that aren’t moldy, but might be a little too mushy to eat. Turning them into syrup is an excellent way to reduce food waste!

Let’s Make It!

To make this best blackberry simple syrup recipe, first clean the berries. Give your blackberries a good clean by placing them in a vinegar bath and gently rinsing under cool water. This is essential for getting nice clean berries to enjoy simmering.

Next, combine the ingredients. In a saucepan, combine the sugar, water and berries. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Simmer for 5–10 minutes, until the liquid is pale purple and the berries have disintegrated. Occasionally stir and smash berries to soften and speed up the process. Simmer just until the berry goodness has been infused.

Once simmered, strain the hot syrup through a fine-mesh strainer to remove any chunky fruit bits. Spoon the fruit remains and press or mash to release any extra liquid. Allow the syrup to cool slightly, then enjoy! Store leftover syrup in an airtight container in the fridge for later use.

Note: The syrup will keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to two weeks. For a fun party trick, add a splash of vodka to the syrup. This prevents bacteria from growing over an extended period of time.

Seedless Blackberry Syrup Recipe

While traditional blackberries have small seeds, newer seedless varieties have become available which are more enjoyable to eat fresh or incorporate into recipes.

Seedless blackberries can be used to make jams, jellies, crisps or crumbles without worrying about tiny seeds getting stuck in teeth. They are also well-suited for making simple syrups since the syrup will be seed-free.

The cooking process for seedless blackberries is basically the same as regular blackberries. Rinse and hull the berries, then add them to recipes calling for fresh or cooked blackberries. Seedless varieties hold their shape better during cooking compared to conventional types.

Experiment with seedless blackberry recipes throughout the year by freezing or canning surplus harvests. Their convenience makes them a tasty upgrade over traditional seeded berries in many desserts and beverages.

Best Use of Blackberry Simple Syrup

Cocktails and Beverages

• Add a spoonful of blackberry syrup to seltzer for a berry club soda or Italian soda
• Use in place of simple syrup in a Blackberry Bramble cocktail
• Muddle blackberries and mint, then add syrup to a Moscow mule or margarita
• Mix with champagne or Prosecco for a festive Sangria
• Blackberry simple syrup cocktails

Non-Alcoholic Drinks

• Sweeten lemonade or iced tea with a splash of syrup
• Make an iced or hot latte with syrup and milk
• Flavor plain club soda into berry sparkling water

Baking and Desserts

• For thicker syrup, adjust the ratio of sugar to water
• Use as a topping blackberry syrup for pancakes, waffles or French toast
• Drizzle over cheesecake or vanilla ice cream
• Brush batter or dough with syrup for flavored glazed treats

Experiment, adding a spoonful to whatever strikes your fancy – the possibilities are endless! Adjust to taste depending on your preferred level of sweetness.

Storage and Freezing

For short term storage, keep leftover simple syrup in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2–3 weeks. Do not store at room temperature – the fresh fruit can spoil if left unrefrigerated. The syrup may become slightly cloudy with proper refrigeration but will maintain the best quality and flavor.

For longer storage, you can freeze extra syrup. Portion syrup into ice cube trays or other small quantities to prevent freezer burn. Once frozen, transfer cubes to a freezer bag and squeeze out excess air before sealing and labeling with the date. Frozen cubes will maintain quality for several months.

By following these freezing and storage tips, you can enjoy homemade blackberry simple syrup throughout the year! Be sure to thaw frozen cubes in the refrigerator before using.

Variations for Blackberry Simple Syrup Recipe

This versatile recipe is just a twist away from becoming something completely new! Try these ideas to spice things up:

1. Spicy syrup – Add a few slices of fresh jalapeño or habanero peppers
2. Aromatic syrup – Steep fresh ginger, lavender, mint, rosemary or other herbs to infuse fresh flavors
3. Sweet + vanilla – Stir in vanilla extract or scrape vanilla bean seeds for sweet warmth
4. Citrus touch – Zest orange, lime, or lemon and add a squeeze of fresh citrus juice
5. Swap out berries – Use other fruits like mangoes, peaches or blueberries instead of just blackberries

Experiment by combining flavors, too. The possibilities are endless – let your taste buds spin new variations on this classic syrup!

Expert Tips

Storage Hack – For easy pouring, store leftover syrup in an empty squeeze bottle. The narrow spout pours efficiently without spilling.

Clean Straining – Line a fine mesh strainer with a cheesecloth or paper towel for easy transfer without messy straining.

No Spill Transfer – Use a funnel when transferring hot syrup mixture to prevent accidental spills.

Mash Easily – For quickly mashing berries, use two forks or a potato masher. It’s faster than a single utensil alone.

Speed Up Boiling – Mash berries as they boil to release more liquid. The boiling process happens more quickly.

Follow these expert tips for clean, effortless and efficient simple syrup making. Let me know if you need any other syrup mastering techniques!

Nutrition Facts

A 2 Tbsp serving of this homemade blackberry simple syrup is a tasty and refreshing way to enjoy only 81 calories with 21g of natural sugars from the berries.

Health Benefits

• High in antioxidants – Blackberries contain anthocyanins and ellagic acid which act as powerful antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage.
• Good for heart health – The antioxidants in blackberries may help reduce risk of heart disease by lowering blood pressure and preventing cholesterol oxidation.
• Support digestive health – Blackberries are a good source of fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and regularity. The fiber also helps provide a feeling of fullness.
• May have anti-cancer properties – Compounds in blackberries have shown promise in inhibiting cancer cell growth and tumor development in various test tube and animal studies.
• Benefit skin health – The antioxidants and vitamin C in blackberries protect skin from damage caused by free radicals and may reduce signs of aging like wrinkles and age spots over time.
• Promote eye health – Lutein and zeaxanthin in blackberries are good for macular degeneration and cataracts, since they absorb damaging blue light.

While more research is still needed, including blackberry simple syrup in your diet takes advantage of the berries’ nutritious compounds and health promoting properties. The Saucy Canvas suggests enjoying blackberry simple syrup in moderation as part of a balanced diet to gain the most health benefits from its antioxidants while limiting added sugar intake.

Other Dessert Sauces

• Creamy Butterscotch Sauce
• Fresh Raspberry Sauce
• Fresh Strawberry Sauce
• Nutella Sauce
• Blonde Syrup

My Final Thoughts

Homemade blackberry simple syrup recipe is a delicious way to preserve the flavor of seasonal berries. With just berries, water and sugar boiled together, the syrup adds vibrant flavor to drinks and desserts. Following tips for freezing and storing ensures it can be enjoyed throughout the year. Variations offer new ways to enjoy the fruity sweetness. Overall, taking a few minutes to make this versatile syrup is worthwhile for enjoying fresh blackberry taste anytime.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to make blackberries sweet?

Tossing blackberries with a small amount of sugar or simple syrup and letting them macerate extracts the natural sugars and juices.

How to make long-lasting simple syrup?

Boiling the mixture until it becomes clear and storing it in sterilized sealed containers and refrigerating helps it last 2-3 weeks. Freezing extends the lifespan to several months.

What is the mixture of simple syrup?

Simple syrup is created by combining sugar and water in a saucepan, then heating the mixture until the sugar dissolves completely.

How to make simple syrup formula?

The basic formula is 1 part sugar to 1 part water by volume, brought to a boil while stirring until fully dissolved.

What happens if you boil simple syrup too long?

Boiling simple syrup too long can cause browning of the sugars or crystallization issues later as the syrup sits. Following the recipe ensures best results.

Can you double the simple syrup recipe for a big batch?

Yes, simple syrup recipes can be doubled or adjusted as long as the 1:1 sugar to water ratio is maintained for proper dissolving and consistency.

How much simple syrup do you get from one batch?

Yields vary, but a standard recipe usually makes 1–2 cups. Larger volumes may result in slightly less syrup due to boiling off and condensation loss.

Do you have to thaw frozen berries first?

While thawed berries are easier to mash, frozen berries can also be used without thawing, which may require slightly longer simmering to break down cell walls fully.

What is the difference between syrup and simple syrup?

Syrup usually refers to thick, viscous liquids, while simple syrup only contains sugar and water without other thickeners like corn syrup.

What are the disadvantages of simple syrup?

Over-boiling can cause browning or crystal formation issues over time. Careful preparation as per the recipe prevents disadvantages.

How long is homemade simple syrup?

Properly stored in the fridge, simple syrup lasts 2–3 weeks. Freezing extends the shelf life to 3–6 months.

What happens if you boil simple syrup too long?

Boiling simple syrup too long can cause browning of the sugars or crystallization issues later as the syrup sits. Following the recipe ensures best results.

How to prepare blackberries?

Wash and dry the blackberries, removing any mushy ones. No need to remove stems before mashing or cooking the berries.

Why do you soak blackberries in vinegar?

Soaking blackberries in vinegar is said to help release more juices, but isn’t necessary when making simple syrup from fresh berries.

How do you sweeten blackberries naturally?

Fresh blackberries can have their sugars drawn out by lightly tossing them with a tablespoon or two of sugar or simple syrup.

Is blackberry good for sugar?

Blackberries are low in natural sugar, so a little simple syrup enhances sweetness without overdoing it with added sugars.

Blackberry Simple Syrup Recipe

Recipe by The Saucy CanvasCourse: Dessert SaucesCuisine: American

Servings

8

servings

Prep time

2

minutes

Cooking time

8

minutes

Calories

81

kcal

Total time

10

minutes

Indulge in the vibrant sweetness of our Blackberry Simple Syrup recipe. Perfect for adding a burst of flavor to cocktails, mocktails, desserts, and more. Easy to make and bursting with fruity goodness, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 6 ounces fresh blackberries, or frozen

• ¾ cup granulated sugar

• ¾ cup water

Directions

• Clean the blackberries well (if using fresh) in a bath of salt water or vinegar. Rinse well.
• In a small saucepan, combine sugar, water, and blackberries. Heat over medium-high heat until simmering, stirring occasionally. Once softened, gently smash the softened berries with the back of a spoon or masher. Simmer for 6-8 minutes until the berries have disintegrated into seeds and the syrup is bright purple.
• Optional: stir in a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to bring out the berry flavor if it’s tasting flat; it’s not about adding lemon flavor but rather enhancing the blackberry notes.
• Let cool as needed and use immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

• Serving Size: this recipe makes just over 1 cup of syrup. 
  
• Frozen Berries: No need to thaw before using, you just may need to simmer a few extra minutes. They tend to be less sweet so be sure to taste test and add more sugar if you need to.
  
• Sugar: using a 3/4 sugar:water ratio yields an intense blackberry flavored syrup; to make more and extend the blackberry’s value, use 1 cup of each instead.
• Notes on thickness: If you want to use on pancakes/waffles or drizzle it over desserts, you might want a thicker syrup. Simply cook the mixture longer to release more water. If it’s still too thin for you after you’ve strained it, just place the syrup back in a clean pot to cook some more until the desired thickness is reached.