Ingredients:
- 1 fresh, ripe pineapple (or 2 cups of pineapple chunks)
- 1 cup of sugar (white or brown)
- 1 cup of water
- Optional: a dash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added depth
Instructions:
Prep the Pineapple:
- Peel the pineapple and cut it into small chunks. Discard the core if you prefer a softer, less fibrous texture in the syrup.
Combine Ingredients:
- In a medium saucepan, add the pineapple chunks, sugar, and water. Stir everything together to help dissolve the sugar a bit before heating.
Simmer the Mixture:
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to ensure the sugar fully dissolves and doesn't stick to the pan.
Cook Until Syrupy:
- Let the pineapple mixture simmer for about 20–30 minutes, or until it thickens to a syrupy consistency. The pineapple pieces should become soft, releasing their juices and flavor.
Strain the Syrup (Optional):
- For a smooth syrup, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove pineapple pieces. If you like a chunkier texture, keep the pieces in for extra flavor.
- Add Flavoring (Optional):
- If desired, add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to give your syrup a richer taste. Stir to combine.
- Cool and Store:
- Let the syrup cool, then pour it into a clean glass jar or bottle. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
How to Use Pineapple Syrup:
- Drinks: Add it to cocktails, lemonades, iced teas, or sodas for a tropical twist.
- Desserts: Drizzle over pancakes, waffles, ice cream, or yogurt for a sweet treat.
- Glazes: Brush on meats or grilled fruits for a delicious, caramelized finish.
Enjoy your homemade pineapple syrup!
