Cherry syrup is a delicious and versatile addition to many dishes and drinks. This old-fashioned recipe lets you make a natural, sugar-free cherry syrup without pitting the cherries or adding preservatives. It’s a wonderful way to capture the rich, vibrant flavor of cherries in a healthy way. Let’s get started!

Why Make Cherry Syrup Without Sugar?

Making cherry syrup without sugar allows you to enjoy the natural sweetness of cherries without added calories. This is especially beneficial for those watching their sugar intake or looking for healthier alternatives.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 pounds of fresh cherries (no need to pit them)

• 4 cups of water

• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice

• 1/2 teaspoon of stevia or your preferred natural sweetener (optional)

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Prepare the Cherries

Start by washing the cherries thoroughly to remove any dirt or impurities. Since you won’t be pitting them, there’s no need to spend extra time on this step.

2. Cook the Cherries

In a large pot, combine the cherries and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes, or until the cherries are soft and have released their juices.

3. Strain the Mixture

After simmering, pour the cherry mixture through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth into another pot or large bowl. Use a spoon to press down on the cherries to extract as much juice as possible. Discard the solids.

4. Add Lemon Juice

Return the strained cherry juice to the pot. Add the lemon juice, which helps preserve the color and adds a bit of brightness to the flavor. If you want a slightly sweeter syrup, you can add stevia or your preferred natural sweetener at this point. Stir well.

5. Simmer to Thicken

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and let it simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the syrup has thickened to your desired consistency. Keep in mind that it will thicken more as it cools.

6. Bottle the Syrup

Once the syrup has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Pour the syrup into clean, sterilized bottles or jars. Seal tightly and store in the refrigerator. The syrup can be kept for several weeks.

How to Use Cherry Syrup

• Pancakes and Waffles: Drizzle cherry syrup over pancakes or waffles for a fruity, sweet breakfast treat.

• Drinks: Add a splash of cherry syrup to sparkling water, iced tea, or cocktails for a refreshing flavor boost.

• Desserts: Use it as a topping for ice cream, yogurt, or cheesecake for an extra layer of deliciousness.

• Marinades and Sauces: Incorporate the syrup into marinades for meats or use it to glaze roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

Creating your own cherry syrup at home without pitting the cherries, using preservatives, or adding sugar is simple and rewarding. This healthy, natural syrup captures the essence of cherries and can be used in a variety of ways. Try this recipe and enjoy the delicious, guilt-free taste of homemade cherry syrup.