This three ingredient Citrus Syrup is an easy, no-cook simple syrup alternative! Use it to add bright citrus flavor to fruit salad, mocktails or cocktails, and more! 

What Makes This Recipe Great

I originally used this Citrus Syrup recipe as a dressing for my delicious Fruit Salad, which added a fabulous bright, tart flavor and drew out the sweetness of the fruit. If you love citrus flavors (it’s always citrus season here in California!), then you are going to love this quick and easy syrup.

I’ve included instructions on how to make my fruit salad (the perfect side dish for summertime!), but this syrup doesn’t stop there. It can be made with a variety of citrus fruits and sweetener of your choice, and is a great way to jazz up any beverage, dessert, or dressing of choice!

To make, we’ve eliminated the need for cooking, as we allow the citric acid to do its thing and help dissolve the sugar without cooking over the stove. This recipe is quite customizable, as you can use your favorite citrus juices, sweetener of choice, and zest for added flavor, if desired. Now let’s make it! 

Ingredient Notes

• fresh orange juice
• fresh lemon juice: Add lemon zest for a stronger flavor. 
• light honey or light brown sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1

In a small bowl or mason jar, mix and stir all ingredients until the sugar dissolves.  This can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to two days.

Expert Tips

• Variations: You can make this syrup with any variation of fresh citrus fruit that you prefer (grapefruit juice, lime juice, blood orange juice, etc.). For a stronger flavor, add the zest of the fruit with a handheld grater.  
• Simple Syrup: Most simple syrup recipes involve adding equal parts water and white sugar into a small saucepan, then bringing to a boil over the stove with the fresh citrus juice and citrus peels. While this method works great, it does require more time and cooking. The no-cook method we’re using today yields a very delicious result, though feel free to make a true simple syrup if desired. 
• Modifications: Use honey or maple syrup for an all-natural sweetener, organic cane sugar or brown sugar, or even monk fruit sweetener for a healthy alternative. You can use more or less sugar depending on your desired sweetness. 

Serving Tips

There are many uses for this syrup. Here are some suggestions for how to use it. 

• mix-in to your favorite cocktail or mocktail recipes (think whiskey sours, old fashioneds, margaritas, and gin or vodka drinks)
• add to iced tea, plain seltzer, or other favorite drinks 
• atop unsweetened Greek yogurt
• toss it in simple fruit salads for an added bright, sweet, and tart flavor that enhances the flavor of the fruit. 

Storage Tips

Store this citrus syrup in an airtight container or jar and refrigerate for up to 2 days. 

Fruit Salad with Citrus Syrup and Fresh Mint

To make a simple fruit salad tossed in citrus syrup, follow these instructions and ingredients.

Serves: 4-6

• ½ small cantaloupe, cubed
• 1 mango, peeled and cubed
• 1 pound mixed berries (I used strawberries, hulled and halved, blackberries and blueberries)
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
• 1 Tablespoon fresh lemon juice, plus more to taste
• 2 Tablespoons lightly flavored honey or light brown sugar, packed 
• 1 Tablespoon finely chopped fresh mint, plus extra for garnish
• Flaky sea salt, if you like salt and fruit (I do!)

1. Place the fruit in a serving bowl. If there are any huge blackberries and blueberries, it’s fun to halve them for a pretty look.
2. In a small bowl, combine the orange juice, lemon juice and sugar and stir until the sugar is dissolved. Pour over the fruit and gently toss to combine. Sprinkle with fresh mint. Taste and add more lemon juice if you like or zest if you want a punchier tart flavor. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint, sprinkle with flaky sea salt, and serve.

Notes: you can also swap in different fruits like orange slices, kiwis and stone fruit.

More Citrus Forward Recipes

• Homemade Orange Juice Sherbet
• Lemon Ricotta Soufleé with Blueberries
• Lemon Garlic Dressing
• Meyer Lemon Vinaigrette
• Key Lime Pie Recipe
• Olive Oil Yogurt Cake with Citrus Glaze

Please tag me @pamelasalzman #pamelasalzman on Instagram if you make it. And please leave a comment and 5-star rating below! I enjoy reading your tweaks, tips, and recreations!