Cherry Syrup Recipe: Sweet, Simple & Ready in 15 Minutes

Growing up, cherry season always meant stained fingers, sun-warmed fruit, and the smell of something sweet simmering on the stove. My Nonna used to make this cherry syrup in the summer, drizzling it over pancakes with a wink and a whispered “secret ingredient.” Now I’m sharing that “secret” with you—and it’s surprisingly simple.

This easy cherry syrup comes together in just 15 minutes with only six pantry-friendly ingredients. Whether you’re topping oat milk pancakes, creamy cheesecake, or a warm slice of cherry almond bread, this syrup turns breakfast into a celebration and dessert into a showstopper.

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Recipe Highlights

• Ready in 15 minutes
• Works with fresh or frozen cherries (think Bing, Chelan, or tart)
• Vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free
• Perfect as a pancake topping, ice cream drizzle, or cheesecake sauce

You can even serve it with baked brie and crusty baguette for a sweet-savory appetizer that’ll steal the show. Want more cherry joy? Check out our fan-favorite homemade cherry pie filling or these fluffy cherry banana muffins.

Ingredients

You only need 6 ingredients to whip up this naturally sweet, thickened cherry syrup:

• 2 cups cherries (fresh, frozen, or tart)
• ½ cup brown sugar (or granulated sugar)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• ¾ cup water

🍳 Equipment

Gather these tools to make your syrup magic happen:

• Cherry pitter (or use a sturdy straw!)
• Small saucepan
• Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
• Mason jar or airtight glass container

Instructions

Here’s how to make cherry syrup at home, step-by-step:

1. Heat the base
   In a small saucepan, combine the cherries, ½ cup water, and brown sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Mix the thickener
   In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water to form a smooth slurry.
3. Add the slurry
   Once the cherry mixture boils, stir in the cornstarch slurry. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 3–4 minutes.
4. Mash the cherries
   Use a fork or the back of a spoon to mash the cherries gently as they soften.
5. Flavor boost
   Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice and vanilla extract. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as needed.
6. Serve or store
   Let the syrup cool slightly before pouring it into your jar. Use immediately or refrigerate for later.

Storage

• Refrigerate cherry syrup in an airtight container (like a mason jar) for up to 1 week.
• Freezing not recommended due to separation from the cornstarch.
• To reheat, warm gently on the stove with a splash of water to loosen.

Expert Tips

• For a smooth texture, blend the syrup before storing.
• Want it thinner? Add water 1 tablespoon at a time until your desired consistency.
• Pair it with:
  • Waffles or French toast
  • Cheesecake or sponge cake
  • Ice cream or frozen yogurt
  • Brie and baguette

Browse our Cherry Recipes board for more fruit-filled inspiration.

FAQ

For more cherry-packed recipes from Kai Recipes, explore:

• homemade cherry pie filling
• cherry banana muffins
• best cherry pie recipe
• cherry almond bread

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