How to make date syrup - A step-by-step method to make homemade syrup from dates. A great alternative to processed sweeteners, packed with minerals and antioxidants. Naturally sweet and gluten-free, with a subtle date flavor.
Pit your dates, place them in a colander and rinse thoroughly.
Place dates in a large lidded pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil on medium-high heat, then lower the heat, cover and let simmer gently for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
To speed up the process, use a potato masher to carefully breakdown to dates while simmering.
Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool down completely.
Place a colander over a big mixing bowl or pot. Line the colander with a nut milk bag or a large cheesecloth.
Carefully pour the mixture to strain. If your cheesecloth/ nut milk bag is too small, do it in batches.
Squeeze the date liquid, until you are left with a dry date paste. Reserve date paste for later uses or discard.
Pour the liquid into a pot and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Lower the heat, and simmer uncovered. Skim any foam from the top of the liquid using a spoon. Let cook watching closely for 45 minutes to 1 hour or until it reduces down by half and the syrup is coating the back of your spoon.
The syrup will thicken while cooling but if you want a really thick syrup, bring it back to the heat and reduce it until desired consistency.