Copycat Monin Strawberry Syrup Recipe

19

Bright, juicy strawberries capture the essence of summertime sweetness, and Monin Strawberry Syrup brings this vibrant flavor right into your kitchen. Designed to blend effortlessly into countless recipes, this syrup is a favorite among home cooks and party hosts alike.

What Is Monin Strawberry Syrup?

Monin Strawberry Syrup is a flavored syrup made by Monin that provides a sweet, juicy strawberry taste to beverages and desserts.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced)
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• ½ teaspoon lemon juice (for freshness and a slight acidity)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for depth of flavor).

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Strawberries: Begin by washing and hulling your strawberries. Slice them into halves or quarters for quicker cooking.
2. Combine Ingredients: Place the strawberries, sugar, and water in a saucepan. Stir together over medium heat until the sugar begins to dissolve.
3. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally and mashing the strawberries gently with a spoon to release their juices.
4. Add Lemon Juice: Once the mixture thickens and the strawberries have broken down, stir in the lemon juice. Simmer for another 2 minutes.
5. Strain: Remove the mixture from the heat. Pour it through a fine mesh strainer into a clean bowl or jug to separate the solids from the syrup. Use the back of a spoon to press out as much liquid as possible.
6. Optional Flavor Twist: For an added layer of flavor, stir in vanilla extract at this point and mix thoroughly.
7. Cool and Bottle: Allow the syrup to cool completely. Pour it into a sterilized glass bottle or jar and seal tightly. Store refrigerated for up to two weeks.

Tips For The Best Strawberry Syrup:

• Choose ripe, fragrant strawberries for maximum flavor and aroma.
• Adjust sweetness to taste; some prefer slightly less sugar, so feel free to modify as desired.
• Don’t rush the simmer, as a slow process extracts richer flavors and a vibrant red color.
• Use the leftover strawberry solids as a topping for yogurt, pancakes, or oatmeal.
• For a clear syrup, avoid over-mashing the strawberries—the more you press, the cloudier the syrup.

What To Serve Monin Strawberry Syrup With

Beverages:

• Lemonades & Sodas: Add a splash to homemade lemonade or sparkling water for a refreshing strawberry twist. Stir well and garnish with fresh mint or sliced strawberries.
• Milkshakes & Smoothies: Blend into vanilla or chocolate milkshakes for fruity depth, or swirl into breakfast smoothies for sweetness and color.
• Cocktails & Mocktails: Mix with gin, vodka, rum, or tequila for vibrant cocktails. For non-alcoholic options, combine with iced tea, tonic, or ginger ale for a fruity mocktail.
• Coffee & Tea: Stir into iced lattes, cold brew, or fruity herbal teas for a hint of berry goodness.

Breakfast Favorites:

• Pancakes & Waffles: Drizzle the syrup over stacks of pancakes or crisp waffles. Top with whipped cream or fresh strawberries for a celebratory breakfast.
• French Toast: Pour strawberry syrup over golden slices of French toast, adding a deliciously sweet finish.
• Yogurt & Oatmeal: Swirl into Greek yogurt, overnight oats, or hot oatmeal. Complement with nuts and extra berries.

Desserts:

• Ice Cream & Gelato: Spoon syrup on vanilla ice cream, strawberry gelato, or frozen yogurt. The syrup creates beautiful ribbons and enhances flavor.
• Cheesecake & Pound Cake: Use as a topping for cheesecake, pound cake, or sponge cake. The syrup adds moisture and a pop of color.
• Puddings & Custards: Pour over panna cotta, rice pudding, or flan for an eye-catching dessert.
• Fruit Salads: Dress a bowl of mixed fruit with a light touch of strawberry syrup to boost sweetness and shine.

Savory Pairings:

• Salad Dressings: Blend a small amount into vinaigrettes, especially with balsamic vinegar, to balance savory salads with fruity notes.
• Brunch Boards: Place a bottle of syrup on a brunch platter with pastries, croissants, and ricotta or cream cheese for easy drizzling.

Ingredient Substitutes:

Alternative Sweeteners:

• Cane Sugar: Offers subtle molasses undertones.
• Honey: Adds floral notes and a thicker texture.
• Agave Nectar: Delivers mild sweetness with a lower glycemic impact.
• Maple Syrup: Imparts a distinct, earthy sweetness (best used partially).
• Stevia/Erythritol: Sugar-free substitutes for reduced-calorie syrup.

Acidulant Alternatives:

• Citric Acid: Powdered form offers consistent tang and longer shelf stability.
• Lime Juice: Provides a similar effect with a more aromatic twist.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: A Small quantity adds complex tartness.

Flavor Enhancers:

• Vanilla Extract or Bean: Brings warmth and depth. Vanilla beans create visible specks and a richer flavor.
• Almond Extract: Adds a gentle nuttiness to complement strawberries.
• Salt: A pinch accentuates sweetness and balances flavors.

Thickening Agents (Optional):

• Cornstarch Slurry: A tiny amount thickens the syrup if a heavier consistency is desired.
• Arrowroot Powder: Natural thickener without a noticeable taste.

Preservatives (Optional for Longer Shelf Life):

• Citric Acid: Already used as an acidulant, but adding extra can extend freshness.
• Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C): Maintains color and prevents spoilage.

Health Benefits

• Rich in Antioxidants (When Made with Real Strawberries): Strawberries contain natural antioxidants, especially vitamin C, anthocyanins, and polyphenols. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals, which can support cell health and minimize oxidative stress. A syrup that is crafted with a generous amount of fresh strawberries retains some of these beneficial compounds and adds a cheerful, nutrient-rich element to foods and drinks.
• Supports Immune Function: Vitamin C, found in strawberries, plays an important role in immune system health. Consuming strawberry-based syrup (particularly homemade or those with high fruit content) can aid defenses against common illnesses and help the body recover from stress or injury.
• Boosts Mood and Enjoyment: Flavored syrups can make meals, snacks, and beverages delightful. The fruity taste and appealing aroma of strawberry syrup may enhance mood by encouraging the enjoyment of breakfast, desserts, or drinks. Creating visually enticing and naturally flavored treats can contribute to positive mealtime experiences.
• Provides Quick Energy: Monin strawberry syrup typically contains sugar, which serves as a fast fuel source for the body. It can be an effective energy booster in moderate amounts for athletes, active lifestyles, or anyone needing a quick pick-me-up. Pairing it with foods that have fiber or protein can help balance energy release.
• Promotes Creativity in Healthy Eating: Using strawberry syrup as a topping or ingredient may encourage the consumption of otherwise plain or less appealing foods (like yogurt, oatmeal, or whole grain pancakes). It tempts picky eaters or children to enjoy more nutrient-rich foods by adding flavor, color, and variety.

Final Thoughts

Monin strawberry syrup is much more than a simple sweetener, it’s a flavorful gateway to creativity in your kitchen. Whether you drizzle it over pancakes, blend it into cocktails, or swirl it through yogurt, its vibrant taste and cheerful color can transform ordinary dishes into memorable treats.

More Recipes:

• Copycat Trader Joe’s Salted Maple Cold Foam Creamer Recipe
• Copycat Starbucks Coconut Matcha Recipe