Nectarine syrup is a simple homemade fruit syrup made by simmering fresh nectarines with sugar, water, and vanilla until thick and flavorful. Perfect for pancakes, desserts, cocktails and more.
When nectarines are in season, I look for ways to stretch their flavor beyond the fruit bowl. Making nectarine syrup is one of the simplest ways.
It requires just four ingredients, one pot, and less than 20 minutes of cooking time. The result is a rich, flavourful syrup with a rich fruity taste and a subtle hint of vanilla.
You can drizzle it over pancakes, swirl it into yogurt, shake it into cocktails, or stir it into iced tea.
I like to keep a bottle in the fridge during summer because it feels like having a little bottle of sunshine ready to pour whenever I want.
If you are new to making fruit simple syrups, this recipe is a delicious place to start. Check out these other Homemade Pancake Syrup Recipes.
I love serving this nectarine simple syrup over vanilla ice cream, as well as Vegan Cheesecake, or even over Greek yogurt.
It's great on Whipped Cottage Cheese with Fruit or added to sparkling water or cocktails for a homemade drink syrup. Try it in a gin and tonic!
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- It requires only four ingredients.
- The process is fast, with less than 20 minutes of cooking.
- The syrup keeps for two weeks in the fridge.
- It is versatile and works for breakfast, drinks, and desserts.
- It helps use up ripe nectarines before they spoil.
Nectarines
The star here is the nectarine.
Nectarines are closely related to peaches but with smooth skin instead of fuzz.
They are juicy, sweet, and slightly tart, which makes them perfect for cooking into syrups. When simmered with sugar, nectarines break down easily, releasing both juice and pulp. This gives the syrup a natural thickness and a bold fruit flavor.
Because nectarines are abundant in summer, this recipe is seasonal and budget-friendly.
Ingredients
- Nectarines Use ripe nectarines for the best flavor. Slightly overripe ones are fine because they cook down well. You can also use white nectarines, though they will produce a lighter syrup.
- Granulated sugar Standard white sugar works well. Brown sugar can be used for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
- Water This helps dissolve the sugar and bulk out the simple syrup.
- Vanilla extract (optional) Adds warmth and complexity. Almond extract or cardamom can be used for a different twist, or you can omit it completely.
See the recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Follow this step-by-step photo tutorial, then scroll down to the recipe card for the full ingredients list and method.
Remove and discard the pits of the nectarines, then chop them into small chunks.
Add all ingredients to a pot.
Stir it together, bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, until the nectarines break down.
Place a fine mesh strainer over a bowl or jug and pour in the mixture. Press the nectarines into the strainer to extract as much nectarine syrup as possible. Allow the mixture to cool, then pour into a jar or bottle and keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks
Variations
- Add lemon zest for brightness.
- Stir in a cinnamon stick during simmering.
- Replace vanilla with almond extract.
- Use honey instead of sugar for a richer flavor.
- Add fresh ginger slices for a spicy kick.
- Mix with raspberries for a two-fruit syrup.
- Infuse with lavender for a floral note.
Ways to use simple syrup
- Drizzle over pancakes or waffles.
- Spoon onto vanilla ice cream.
- Mix into plain yogurt.
- Stir into sparkling water.
- Use as a cocktail mixer.
- Add to iced tea.
- Brush onto cake layers before frosting.
- Use as a topping for cheesecake.
- Swirl into oatmeal.
- Blend into smoothies.
Storage
Store nectarine syrup in a clean jar or bottle in the fridge. It will last up to two weeks.
For longer storage, freeze in ice cube trays, then transfer cubes to a freezer bag. Thaw as needed.
You can also can the syrup using standard water bath methods if you want to keep it shelf-stable.
Make-ahead is easy. Prepare the syrup the day before a brunch or party and keep it chilled until serving.
Nectarine Recipes
Top tips
Use ripe nectarines for maximum flavor.
Do not skip pressing the fruit pulp through the strainer. That is where most flavor is extracted.
Simmer gently. Boiling too hard can scorch the sugar.
Store in glass, not plastic, to avoid flavor transfer.
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📖 Recipe
Nectarine Syrup
Equipment
- Pot
- Fine Mesh Strainer
Ingredients
- 2 cups ripe nectarines 325g, chopped, pits discarded
- 1 cup granulated white sugar 200g
- ¾ cup water 175ml
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a pot. Stir it together, bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, until the nectarines break down.
- Place a fine mesh strainer over a bowl or jug and pour in the mixture. Press the nectarines into the strainer to extract as much nectarine syrup as possible.
- Allow the mixture to cool, then pour into a jar or bottle and keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks
Nutrition
The nutritional information provided is approximate and can vary depending on several factors, so is not guaranteed to be accurate. Please see a registered dietician for special diet advice.
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