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Homemade Cordial

A versatile homemade cordial made with fresh berries, sugar, and lemon juice that you can dilute into refreshing drinks or cocktails.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 24 servings
Course: Beverage
Cuisine: British, Universal
Calories: 45

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 pounds fresh fruit raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, or any berry of your choice
  • 2 cups granulated white sugar
  • 2 cups filtered water
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon citric acid powder acts as a preservative and brightens flavor
  • 1 cinnamon stick optional
  • 4 whole cloves optional
  • 3 sprigs fresh mint optional

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan with a heavy bottom
  • Wooden spoon for stirring
  • Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
  • Glass bottles for storage with tight-fitting lids
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Funnel for pouring into bottles
  • Knife and cutting board for prep

Method
 

  1. Rinse fresh berries under cold water and pat completely dry with paper towels.
  2. Place berries and filtered water into a medium saucepan over medium heat, ensuring the water just covers the fruit.
  3. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low to maintain small bubbles without a rolling boil.
  4. Simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the fruit softens and releases its juice.
  5. Pour the cooked fruit mixture through a fine mesh strainer set over a bowl, pressing gently with the back of a spoon to extract all liquid.
  6. Return the strained liquid to the saucepan over medium heat.
  7. Stir in granulated sugar and citric acid powder, stirring constantly until completely dissolved and the mixture becomes clear, about 2 to 3 minutes.
  8. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice until combined.
  9. Allow the cordial to cool to room temperature, about 20 to 30 minutes, before bottling.
  10. Using a funnel, pour the cooled cordial into clean, dry glass bottles with tight-fitting lids and store in a cool, dark place or refrigerate.

Notes

Always use completely dry bottles and lids when storing cordial to prevent mold or unwanted fermentation.