Sultanas syrup is a naturally sweet, richly flavoured topping that adds depth and warmth to your favourite breakfasts. Whether you’re pouring it over fluffy pancakes or stirring it into a warm bowl of oatmeal, this homemade syrup offers a wholesome alternative to store-bought sweeteners. Ideal for anyone in the UK seeking a healthier, preservative-free option, this syrup brings out the best in simple, nourishing ingredients.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make sultanas syrup from scratch using basic kitchen staples. It’s quick, easy, and versatile—perfect for meal prepping or adding an elevated touch to your everyday breakfasts.
Why Use Sultanas for Syrup?
Sultanas, also known as golden raisins, are naturally sweet dried grapes. They’re packed with nutrients such as iron, potassium, and dietary fibre, and they have a milder flavour compared to darker raisins. Their soft texture and high natural sugar content make them ideal for turning into a rich, sweet syrup without needing refined sugars.
Not only does sultanas syrup taste delicious, but it also provides a source of natural energy—perfect for starting your day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a smooth, flavourful sultanas syrup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
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1 cup sultanas
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1½ cups water
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2 tbsp lemon juice
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1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional for extra sweetness)
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½ tsp cinnamon (optional for a warm, spiced note)
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Pinch of salt
These ingredients are easily sourced from most UK supermarkets or local grocers. If you prefer organic options, they’re widely available in health food shops as well.
Step-by-Step Recipe
1. Soak the Sultanas
Start by soaking the sultanas in warm water for 15–20 minutes. This softens them, making the blending process smoother and helping to release their natural sweetness.
2. Blend Until Smooth
After soaking, drain the sultanas (reserving about ½ cup of the soak water). Add the softened sultanas to a blender along with the reserved water, lemon juice, and optional honey or maple syrup. Blend on high until you achieve a smooth, thick puree.
3. Cook the Syrup
Pour the blended mixture into a small saucepan. Add the remaining 1 cup of water, a pinch of salt, and cinnamon if using. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently.
Allow the mixture to simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until it reduces slightly and thickens into a syrupy consistency. Stir regularly to prevent sticking or burning.
4. Strain (Optional)
If you prefer a smooth, pourable syrup, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean container. For a more rustic, textured syrup, you can skip this step.
5. Cool and Store
Let the syrup cool to room temperature before transferring it to a sterilised glass jar or bottle. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Shake or stir before each use.
How to Use Sultanas Syrup
This syrup is incredibly versatile and adds a natural sweetness to a variety of dishes:
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Drizzle over pancakes or crêpes for a fruit-forward alternative to maple syrup.
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Stir into oatmeal or porridge for a rich, comforting breakfast.
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Top yoghurt or granola with a spoonful for added flavour and nutrition.
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Mix into smoothies for natural sweetness and a touch of fruitiness.
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Use in baking as a substitute for liquid sweeteners in muffins or quick breads.
Its natural flavour pairs beautifully with warm spices, apples, pears, nuts, and even soft cheeses—making it useful beyond breakfast.
Benefits of Homemade Sultanas Syrup
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No preservatives or artificial sweeteners – just wholesome, natural ingredients.
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Customisable sweetness and texture – control how thick, spiced, or sweet it is.
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Budget-friendly – sultanas are inexpensive and widely available in the UK.
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Great for batch cooking – make a jar and enjoy it all week.
This syrup is an ideal alternative for those seeking to reduce their intake of refined sugar without compromising on taste or convenience.
Tips for Best Results
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Use fresh sultanas – older ones may be too dry and affect the consistency.
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Adjust sweetness to taste – some may prefer it without any added honey or syrup.
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For a thinner consistency, add a little more water during cooking.
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Don’t rush the simmering process – it helps concentrate the flavour and thickness.
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Experiment with flavours – try adding vanilla, cardamom, or nutmeg for variety.
Sustainability Note
Making your own syrup is not only healthier but also more sustainable. You can store it in reusable glass containers, reducing your reliance on single-use packaging. Plus, by choosing locally sourced ingredients where possible, you lower your environmental impact.
Final Thoughts
Sultanas syrup is a simple, nourishing way to enhance your breakfasts with the natural sweetness of dried fruit. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your pancakes, oatmeal, or yoghurt, this homemade recipe is a wholesome and flavourful choice.
By making your own sultanas syrup, you’ll enjoy the comfort of real food with no hidden ingredients. It’s an easy addition to your kitchen routine that delivers big rewards in both taste and nutrition.
Ready to transform your mornings? Grab a handful of sultanas and start cooking—you’ll never look at store-bought syrup the same way again.