Learn how to make Homemade Grenadine syrup, it is so easy and delicious. Our family loves to use grenadine for everything from ice cream topping to a bright addition to a beverage. Check out our super simple recipe for making it from scratch!

What is Grenadine?

Surprising to many, grenadine is not made of cherries even though it tastes very much like cherry juice. It is actually made of pomegranate juice! It’s a very simple combination of pomegranate juice and sugar, simmered down to a simple syrup.

Why Make Homemade Grenadine?

I was skeptical about making this from scratch recipe for grenadine at first as well. However, it is a world of difference from the store bought version. It has a more robust flavor and is sweet without having any extra additives.

What Can Grenadine be Used for?

This simple syrup has many uses. Here are a few examples:

Stir into mixed drinks for a cherry-like flavor
Freeze it into cubes to put into beverages
Pour over ice cream or swirl it in
Flavor your favorite plain soda
Add a twist of sweet flavor to your favorite meat or dessert recipes

What is a simple syrup?

A simple syrup is a blend of sugar and a liquid such as juice. This combination can be cold processed or hot processed in order to combine the sugar with the liquid. It can also be reduced or have the sugar content increased to become thicker.

Common Questions when Making Grenadine

How long do you simmer grenadine?

Depending on how syrupy you like it, you can simmer it anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes.

Pomegranate Showing the Seeds Inside the Fruit

Should you allow a simple syrup to boil?

It depends on what you plan to do with the syrup. Boiling the syrup will decrease the amount of water, resulting in a thicker substance. If you want it to be thin, then do not allow it to boil. I like to reduce mine so I do gently boil, or simmer, the syrup.

How to Cold Process a Simple Syrup

Simple syrups can be cold processed by using a method of agitation such as shaking or using a blender. Many people swear by the blender method. Simply add room temperature water, or liquid of choice, to your blender and then add your sugar. Process until you cannot see the sugar. For a thicker syrup, increase the sugar amount.

There is a lot of debate as to whether it is better to cold process or hot process a simple syrup. You should choose whichever option you are most comfortable with. Some people say that the cold process leaves it with a more “cane” sugar taste. However, hot processed is more shelf stable.