Date Syrup Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups pitted dates
- 2 cups water
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Place dates in a medium saucepan and cover with water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until dates are very soft.
- Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes.
- Transfer dates and cooking liquid to a blender or food processor.
- Add lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Blend on high speed until completely smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
- Strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any remaining pulp.
- Return to saucepan and simmer over low heat for 5-10 minutes until thickened to desired consistency.
- Let cool completely before storing.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Special Notes
This natural date syrup is a healthy alternative to refined sugar and honey. It has a rich, caramel-like flavor that's perfect for drizzling over pancakes, waffles, or yogurt. The syrup can be used in baking as a sugar substitute - use 3/4 cup date syrup for every 1 cup of sugar. It's also delicious in smoothies, oatmeal, or as a sweetener for tea and coffee. The lemon juice helps balance the sweetness and prevents the syrup from being too cloying. This syrup is naturally vegan and gluten-free.