Apple Syrup

You might think that the only time to enjoy a good apple pie or freshly squeezed apple cider is autumn, when apples are at their ripest. But with this apple syrup recipe, you can enjoy the delightful flavor of apples any time of year, as the syrup uses store-bought apple juice.

And since this syrup comes together in about 10 minutes from start to finish, you can make it whenever you get a hankering for some sweet-tart apple flavor. So let’s get to sweetening up those pancakes or waffles (or pork chops!) with this unique and tasty homemade apple syrup.

Apple Syrup Ingredients

• Cornstarch: The cornstarch is a thickening agent that ensures the syrup has a proper consistency. It’s just a tablespoon, and it needs to be measured carefully, or the syrup will not come out properly.
• Ground cinnamon and nutmeg: Cinnamon is a wonderful spice to pair with apples, which is why you’ll find cinnamon in just about every apple pie recipe you ever come across. And where you find cinnamon, you often find nutmeg. Nutmeg is a very powerful spice, so make sure you measure out the 1/4 teaspoon with care.
• Unsweetened apple juice: Using unsweetened apple juice is key, or the syrup will come out tasting much too sweet. Try it as laid out here and you’ll see it’s great as is.
• Sugar substitute: You can use actual sugar if need be, but this recipe is designed with a sugar substitute, specifically using the equivalent to 4 teaspoons of regular white sugar.

Directions

Step 1: Combine the first four ingredients

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In a small saucepan, combine the cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg and apple juice, stirring until the mixture is smooth. Bring the pan to a boil, and cook, stirring, for two minutes or until the blend has thickened.

Step 2: Add the sugar substitute

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Remove the syrup from the heat and stir in the sugar substitute.

Step 3: Enjoy

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Really, that’s it!

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Apple Syrup Variations

• Clove it up: Swap out a pinch each of the cinnamon and the nutmeg and add in a couple pinches of clove, for an even more robust spice flavor profile.
• Use real sugar: If you don’t have, or don’t want to use, a sugar substitute, you can use real sugar. Stir it in right before you remove the saucepan from the heat.
• Add some cider: Swap out 1/4 cup of the unsweetened apple juice for some apple cider, for a slightly sweeter and more complex apple syrup.

How to Store Apple Syrup

This apple syrup will keep well in the fridge for three to four days, as long as it’s sealed in an airtight container.

Can you freeze apple syrup?

This syrup will freeze well and keep well for at least six months. Just account for expansion when you’re putting it in a container.

Apple Syrup Tips

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Why does this syrup use a sugar substitute?

Many apple syrups use sugar substitutes to boost sweetness and to avoid a bitter aftertaste that can come in sugary homemade syrups.

What sugar substitute should I use?

There are many options, but we first recommend allulose, which is sourced from foods like raisins or figs. You can also use Stevia or another option.

What should I use this apple syrup on?

This apple syrup will be a delight on any food you would normally use maple syrup on. Try it on pancakes or waffles, drizzle it over ice cream or even try it on a pork chop.