Blueberry Simple Syrup

This blueberry simple syrup brings a burst of berry flavor to cocktails, mocktails, lemonades, and even pancakes. It’s a summer staple that takes just 3 ingredients and zero effort. You’ll want to drizzle it on everything!

about this blueberry simple syrup

Blueberries are the ultimate summer berry. They’re sweet but not too sweet, with just the right pop of juiciness that you want from a summer berry. This homemade blueberry syrup is just the thing to have in your fridge during blueberry season (and honestly, year-round if you stock up and freeze them).

What I love about this syrup is how the berries break down gently as they simmer, releasing all their flavor and that deep purple color. It just begs to be added to anything to bring that vibrant hue to life in your favorite recipes. You don’t need fancy gear or tons of time. All you need is a pot and about 15 minutes.

It works beautifully in gin cocktails, bourbon sours, or even simply mixed into sparkling water with a quick squeeze of lime. Plus, it makes a killer topping for pancakes, waffles, and vanilla ice cream.

This recipe is also a favorite because those leftover cooked down berries can be saved and used later! You can swirl them into yogurt, spoon them on top of oatmeal, or blend into smoothies. Just like that, no waste.

ingredients

Granulated sugar. The classic simple syrup base. If you want to swap in honey or maple syrup, see variations below.

Water. Plain water to dissolve the sugar and help extract all that juicy blueberry goodness. If you want, you can use filtered water.

Fresh blueberries. You’ll need about 12 ounces, which comes out to around 1 3/4 to 2 cups. Make sure they’re ripe, plump, and flavorful.

this recipe’s must-haves 

All you need to make this blueberry simple syrup is a medium saucepan and a spoon (wooden spoon or silicone spoon). To strain out the berries, grab a fine mesh sieve (the finer, the better for a smooth finish).

For storage, a mason jar works great, but any airtight container will do the trick.

here’s how to make this blueberry simple syrup

simmer

Combine sugar, water, and blueberries in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir everything together and let the sugar dissolve. This will only take a couple of minutes.

Once the sugar is fully dissolved, lower the heat to medium-low and simmer the blueberries. Don’t stir as it cooks. Simmer for about 10 minutes until they burst and infuse the syrup.

cool

Remove the pan from the heat and let the syrup cool completely to room temp in the pan.

strain

Strain the syrup through a fine mesh strainer to catch the solids, then transfer the syrup to a glass jar or airtight container. Place in the fridge once your are done.

tips and tricks 

Want a thicker syrup? Simmer it 5 minutes longer for a slightly more concentrated texture. This is better particularly if you want to make a thick syrup for pancakes or waffles.

Save the leftover blueberries! They’re soft, jammy, and ideal for topping yogurt or stirring into overnight oats.

Use frozen blueberries if that’s what you’ve got. Just add a couple extra minutes to the simmer time.

variations

Add a sprig of thyme or rosemary while it simmers for an herby twist. Remove just after simmering.

Throw in a slice of lemon peel or a splash of lemon juice for added brightness.

Swap in honey for a floral version of the syrup. If you use honey, use 3/4 cup honey instead of 1 cup sugar.

More flavorful simple syrups to try: Strawberry Simple Syrup | Lemon Simple Syrup | Mint Simple Syrup | Honey Simple Syrup

can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, you can definitely use frozen berries for this recipe! They work great, you may need to extend the simmer time by a few minutes for them to burst.

can I double the batch?

Yes! Just double everything and make sure to use a larger saucepan so you have enough room without it overflowing.

how long does it last in the fridge?

This blueberry simple syrup will keep for up to one month, as long as it’s in an airtight container. If it starts to look cloudy or funky, toss it and make a fresh batch.

can I freeze it in one big container?

You can, but it’s way more convenient to freeze it in an ice cube tray. That way, you can just pop out a cube or two whenever the cocktail mood strikes.

Need more inspiration for a summer recipes? Check out my summer recipes page!

how to use this blueberry simple syrup

This syrup can be used anywhere regular simple syrup is used, whether that’s in mocktails, cocktails, or even desserts. Here are some of our favorite ways to use it:

• Stir it into sparkling water (club soda), iced tea, or lemonade for a summery berry twist.
• Turn your favorite classic cocktails into blueberry cocktails! We like to use this syrup in gin and tonics, mojitos, and even vodka sodas.
• Drizzle it on pancakes, waffles, and French toast.
• Spoon it over vanilla ice cream or a rich slice of cheesecake.

how to store

Store: Pour cooled syrup into a glass jar or airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.

Freeze: Add. the syrup to an ice cube tray and freeze until solid. You can store them in the tray, or remove to a freezer-safe bag. Store for up to 3 to 4 months.

Thaw: Let frozen syrup cubes thaw in the fridge in a bowl. If you are in a rush, use the microwave in 10-second bursts.

more of our favorite berry recipes

Our blueberry cream cheese french toast casserole is made for summer brunch parties.

Sip on a blackberry mojito, made with fresh mint and fresh berries, for cocktail hour this week.

Make a batch of strawberry coulis to drizzle on pancakes, french toast, waffles, ice cream, and more.

Finally, if you make this blueberry simple syrup recipe, please be sure to give this recipe a star recipe rating on the recipe card and/or leave a comment! I love to hear when you all make recipes, and I do take the time to respond to every single comment.

Feel free to drop questions below too, if you have them!

Oh and be sure to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest if you make the recipe! I love being able to see these recipes come to life in your homes – it’s my favorite thing to look through those photos. It really means the world to me!

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