Homemade Chokecherry (Aronia) Syrup is a delightful concoction that captures the unique tartness of chokecherries, also known as Aronia berries, balanced by a touch of sweetness.
Make your own lemonade! This easy recipe is perfect for any occasion. Get the recipe and cool down!
This syrup is a versatile addition to your kitchen, perfect for drizzling over pancakes, mixing into cocktails, or sweetening up your morning yogurt. The deep, rich color and distinct flavor make it a standout among homemade syrups, offering both taste and a touch of nostalgia.
How to Serve?
Serve Homemade Chokecherry Syrup in a small pitcher or jar, ready to be drizzled over your favorite breakfast dishes like pancakes, waffles, or French toast.
It also shines as a topping for vanilla ice cream or stirred into a glass of iced tea or sparkling water for a refreshing drink.
For a more adventurous twist, use it as a base for cocktails or drizzle over roasted meats for a sweet and tart glaze. The syrup’s vibrant color and rich flavor make it a versatile and eye-catching addition to many dishes.
How to Pair?
Chokecherry Syrup pairs beautifully with both sweet and savory dishes.
For breakfast, try it over pancakes or crepes, or swirl it into oatmeal for a burst of flavor. It’s also fantastic as a sauce for desserts like cheesecakes, tarts, or even as a layer in a trifle.
On the savory side, use it as a glaze for roasted pork, duck, or chicken, adding a delightful contrast to the richness of the meat.
Pair it with cheeses like brie or camembert for an unexpected and delicious combination. The tartness of the chokecherries offers a refreshing counterpoint to rich, creamy dishes.
Some Notes About the Recipe
- Chokecherries: Use fresh or frozen chokecherries (Aronia berries) for the best flavor. Ensure they are fully ripe for a more balanced taste.
- Sweetener: Granulated sugar is traditional, but you can experiment with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile. Adjust the sweetness to your liking.
- Straining: After cooking the berries, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the skins and seeds, leaving a smooth, rich syrup.
- Storage: Store the syrup in sterilized glass bottles or jars in the refrigerator. It can last for several weeks, and you can also freeze it for longer storage.
- Customization: Add a cinnamon stick, a few cloves, or a splash of vanilla extract to the syrup while cooking for extra warmth and depth of flavor.
Homemade Chokecherry (Aronia) Syrup
Equipment
- 1 Large saucepan
- 1 Strainer or cheesecloth
- 1 Sterilized glass jar
- 1 Measuring cups
- 1 Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 4 cups chokecherries - fresh or frozen
- 2 cups water - to extract juice
- 1 and 1/2 cups sugar - adjust according to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice - for preservation
Instructions
- Rinse chokecherries thoroughly and remove any stems and leaves.
- In a large saucepan, combine chokecherries and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the cherries are soft and the juices are released.
- Remove from heat and strain the mixture through a strainer or cheesecloth into a clean bowl to separate the juice from the pulp.
- Return the juice to the saucepan, add sugar and lemon juice, and stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil again and cook for another 10-15 minutes until the syrup thickens to your desired consistency.
- Pour the hot syrup into a sterilized glass jar and allow it to cool before sealing.
