Grenadine is one of those cocktail staples that often gets overlooked or replaced with artificial alternatives. Most store-bought versions are packed with corn syrup, food dye, and flavorings. But real grenadine? It’s simply pomegranate juice, sugar, and maybe a splash of lemon. That’s it. And when made right at home, it’s brighter, more flavorful, and far more versatile than the bottled versions.
Whether you’re mixing a Shirley Temple, Tequila Sunrise, or just want a beautiful syrup to elevate your mocktails and desserts, this homemade grenadine recipe is easy, fast, and way more authentic.
What Is Grenadine?
Grenadine is a sweet, ruby-red syrup traditionally made from pomegranate juice and sugar. It gets its name from the French word “grenade,” which means pomegranate. Its tangy-sweet flavor and vibrant color make it perfect for cocktails, sodas, and culinary applications like glazes or dessert toppings.
Forget the overly sweet red syrup from the store. Real grenadine should taste like fruit, not candy.
Why Make Grenadine at Home?
- No preservatives or food dye
- Natural, rich pomegranate flavor
- Customizable sweetness and acidity
- Costs less over time than store-bought
- Adds gourmet flair to drinks and recipes
Once you taste the real deal, you won’t go back to the artificial version.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what goes into a classic homemade grenadine:
- 1 cup 100% pomegranate juice (not from concentrate)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
That’s the base. From there, you can play around with flavors if you want, but let’s start with the basics.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Grenadine at Home
Step 1: Choose the Right Juice
Use pure, unsweetened pomegranate juice for the best result. You can press fresh pomegranates or buy bottled juice like POM. Avoid blends that include grape or apple juice.
Step 2: Combine and Heat
In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of pomegranate juice and 1 cup of sugar over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar completely dissolves. You don’t need to boil it. Just heat until you have a smooth syrup.
Step 3: Add Lemon Juice
Add 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon juice to enhance the tartness and help preserve the color. This step is optional, but it gives the syrup a balanced flavor.
Step 4: Cool and Bottle
Remove from heat and let it cool. Pour the syrup into a clean glass bottle or jar. Seal and store in the refrigerator.
Shelf Life:
Homemade grenadine lasts about 3 to 4 weeks in the fridge. Add a splash of vodka (about 1 oz per cup of syrup) if you want to extend its shelf life.
Flavor Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, you can add a twist by infusing your syrup.
Orange Peel Grenadine
Add a strip of orange peel during heating for a citrus aroma.
Spiced Grenadine
Simmer with a cinnamon stick, clove, or star anise for a holiday feel.
Rose Water Twist
Add a drop or two of rose water after cooking for a floral touch. A little goes a long way.
How to Use Homemade Grenadine
Grenadine is more than just a cocktail ingredient. Here’s how to put it to good use:
Classic Cocktails:
- Tequila Sunrise: Tequila, orange juice, and grenadine
- Shirley Temple: Ginger ale or lemon-lime soda with grenadine and a cherry
- Jack Rose: Applejack, lemon juice, and grenadine
- Ward Eight: Rye whiskey, lemon juice, orange juice, and grenadine
Non-Alcoholic Drinks:
- Mix with soda water and lime
- Drizzle into lemonade
- Add to iced tea or mocktails
Culinary Uses:
- Glaze for chicken or pork
- Topping for pancakes, waffles, or yogurt
- Swirl into whipped cream or frosting
Tips for the Best Grenadine
- Don’t boil it: Boiling breaks down the pomegranate’s freshness and changes the flavor.
- Use clean containers: Always bottle your grenadine in sterilized jars to avoid spoilage.
- Make small batches: Fresh grenadine tastes best within the first few weeks.
- Taste as you go: You can adjust sugar or lemon to your liking. Want it tarter? Add a little more lemon. Prefer it sweeter? Up the sugar slightly.
