This cranberry simple syrup recipe is just so good! The tart cranberries pair perfectly with the sweetness of the sugar, creating a mind-blowing flavor combination. Not to mention, it’s a great way to add some festive flavor to your drinks this holiday season!
Knowing how to make simple syrup is a great skill to have in your repertoire, and this cranberry simple syrup recipe is sure to become a favorite. It is perfect for creating cranberry simple syrup cocktails, but why stop there? My cranberry simple syrup is delightful in many recipes, from pancakes to salad dressings!
This cranberry simple syrup recipe couldn’t be any easier. The base is only 3 ingredients, and you can quickly whip this cranberry simple syrup up in under 15 minutes! I have given the option of adding rosemary to this recipe to create a gorgeous cranberry rosemary simple syrup, which just gives the flavor an extra little something special.
Whatever way you choose to make my cranberry simple syrup, I promise you’re going to love it!
What is Simple Syrup?
I’ve said that it is good to know how to make a simple syrup, but what exactly is it?
Simple syrup is just a combination of sugar and water that has been heated until the sugar has dissolved. It’s famous for use in cocktails and other drinks, as it dissolves easily and doesn’t leave any undissolved sugar at the bottom of the glass.
This cranberry simple syrup recipe uses a 1:1 ratio of sugar to water, meaning it is a lovely concentrated syrup!
Why You’ll Love Cranberry Simple Syrup
- Great for entertaining. Whether you’re hosting a lavish festive party or an intimate gathering, cranberry simple syrup cocktails are sure to be a big hit!
- The flavor options are endless! Get creative with your cranberry simple syrup cocktails by adding herbs, like for my cranberry rosemary simple syrup, spices, or fruits.
- Not just for adults! Yes, a cranberry simple syrup cocktail is delicious, but this syrup is also fantastic in mocktails and non-alcoholic beverages for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients For This Cranberry Simple Syrup Recipe
- Water
- Granulated sugar
- Cranberries
- Rosemary (optional)
For the exact amounts needed, please see the recipe card below.
Instructions For Cranberry Simple Syrup
- Combine water, sugar, cranberries, and rosemary (if desired) in a medium saucepan.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Simmer, mashing cranberries every few minutes, until the sugar is completely dissolved, about 5-7 minutes.
- Let cool and strain, if desired.
I’ve given a few little ideas on how to use this cranberry simple syrup recipe, but there are so many great options! Here are some more fun ways to use it:
-Create cranberry simple syrup cocktails
-Add to mocktails, like my Christmas punch recipe
-Use it as a drink mixer, in sparkling water or lemonade
-Drizzle over waffles, french toast, or my pumpkin spice pancakes for something super festive
-Make a cranberry simple syrup glaze for ham or oven roasted turkey
-Use in salad dressings for a little extra flavor
-Stirred into tea or coffee
-Pour over ice cream
-Add to milkshakes or smoothies
-Mix a little into some frosting, like my strawberry buttercream – just replace the puree with cranberry simple syrup!
My cranberry simple syrup recipe would also be a super cute holiday gift! Pair it with some tea bags and a mug or some pretty cocktail glasses!
You can store my cranberry simple syrup, in an airtight container, in the fridge for up to 6 weeks. I like to keep mine in a mason jar, so it’s easy to grab when I need it!
Please note cranberries contain something called pectins, which are natural gelling agents. So, this may mean your syrup can thicken when stored in the fridge. If this happens, simply heat it on the stove or microwave until it returns to a liquid state. Alternatively, you can leave it at room temperature before using it and return it to the fridge once finished!
Yes, you can! Pour your syrup into a freezable container, like a glass jar or freezer-safe bag, and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Cranberry Simple Syrup
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 10 ounces cranberries fresh, about 2 cups
- 1 sprig rosemary fresh, optional
Instructions
- Combine water, sugar, cranberries, and rosemary (if desired) in a medium saucepan.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Simmer, mashing cranberries every few minutes, until the sugar is completely dissolved, about 5-7 minutes.
- Let cool and strain, if desired.
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