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This easy homemade pineapple syrup is one of my favorite ways to reduce food waste while making something delicious. The peels and core still contain plenty of natural pineapple flavor, and with just a few pantry ingredients, you'll have a beautiful golden syrup ready to use in all kinds of recipes.

If you've ever sliced up a fresh pineapple and tossed the peel and core into the trash, you're throwing away one of the most flavorful parts of the fruit. Instead of wasting those scraps, you can transform them into a sweet, tropical pineapple syrup that's perfect for drinks, desserts, pancakes, and more.

Whether you're making homemade sodas, tropical cocktails, iced tea, or drizzling it over waffles, this pineapple scrap syrup is a simple recipe you'll want to make every time you buy a fresh pineapple.

Why You'll Love This Recipe for Pineapple Syrup

• Uses pineapple peels and cores that would normally be discarded.
• Reduces food waste.
• Ready in about 45 minutes.
• Made with only three ingredients.
• Naturally tropical and incredibly versatile.
• Stores well in the refrigerator.

What You'll Need for Pineapple Syrup

• Scraps from 1 fresh pineapple (peel and core)
• 4 cups water
• 1½ to 2 cups granulated sugar (depending on desired sweetness)

Optional Flavor Additions

• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2-3 whole cloves
• Fresh ginger slices
• Vanilla bean
• Lime peel

How to Make Pineapple Scrap Syrup

Step 1: Wash the Pineapple

Before cutting your pineapple, give the outside a good scrub under running water. Since you'll be using the peel, it's important to remove any dirt or residue.

Step 2: Save the Scraps

After cutting your pineapple into chunks or slices, reserve:

• The peel
• The tough center core

These are packed with pineapple flavor.

Step 3: Simmer

Place the pineapple scraps into a large saucepan.

Add:

• 4 cups water
• Optional spices if using

Bring everything to a boil.

Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes.

Your kitchen will smell amazing!

Step 4: Strain

Pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a clean saucepan.

Press gently on the peels to extract all of the flavorful liquid.

Discard or compost the scraps.

Step 5: Add Sugar

Measure the pineapple liquid.

For every 2 cups of liquid, add about 1 cup of sugar.

Bring the mixture back to a gentle boil, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves.

Continue simmering for another 10-15 minutes until slightly thickened.

Remember that the syrup will continue to thicken as it cools.

Step 6: Cool and Store

Allow the syrup to cool completely.

Pour into sterilized glass jars or bottles.

Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.

Tips for the Best Pineapple Syrup

• Use a ripe pineapple for the sweetest flavor.
• Don't overcook the syrup or it can become too thick.
• Add less sugar if you prefer a lighter syrup.
• Freeze extra syrup in ice cube trays for individual portions.
• Compost the cooked pineapple scraps after straining.

Ways to Use Pineapple Syrup

One batch goes a surprisingly long way! Here are some delicious ideas:

• Stir into lemonade
• Sweeten iced tea
• Flavor sparkling water
• Add to coffee or cold brew
• Mix into cocktails and mocktails
• Pour over pancakes or waffles
• Drizzle over vanilla ice cream
• Brush onto cakes to keep them moist
• Sweeten plain yogurt
• Blend into smoothies
• Make homemade shaved ice

Variations

Spiced Pineapple Syrup

Simmer with a cinnamon stick and cloves for warm tropical flavor.

Ginger Pineapple Syrup

Add fresh sliced ginger while simmering.

Perfect for mocktails and Moscow mules.

Vanilla Pineapple Syrup

Add half of a vanilla bean during cooking for a richer flavor.

Citrus Pineapple Syrup

Add strips of lime or orange peel for a bright citrus twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you really use pineapple peels?

Yes! Once they're thoroughly washed, pineapple peels contain a tremendous amount of flavor and are commonly used for drinks, syrups, and fermented beverages.

Can I use the flesh too?

Absolutely. If you have extra pineapple pieces, toss them into the pot for an even stronger pineapple flavor.

How long does homemade pineapple syrup last?

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it will keep for about 3 weeks.

Can I freeze it?

Yes! Freeze it in small containers or ice cube trays for up to 6 months.

Is this the same as pineapple simple syrup?

It's very similar. Traditional pineapple simple syrup often uses fresh pineapple chunks, while this version extracts flavor from the peels and core, making it a fantastic zero-waste alternative.

Storage

• Refrigerator: Up to 3 weeks in an airtight glass bottle or jar.
• Freezer: Up to 6 months.

Always use a clean spoon or pour directly from the bottle to help extend freshness.

More Zero-Waste Kitchen Ideas

If you're looking for more ways to stretch your groceries and reduce kitchen waste, try saving citrus peels for homemade cleaners, freezing vegetable scraps for broth, or turning herb stems into flavorful infused oils. Small habits like these can help you get the most out of every ingredient while adding homemade flavor to your favorite recipes.

Next time you cut up a fresh pineapple, don't toss those peels and cores! In less than an hour, you can turn what would have been kitchen scraps into a vibrant, tropical syrup that's delicious in everything from breakfast to happy hour.

For more syrup recipes, check these out

• Dragon Fruit Syrup
• How to Make Strawberry Syrup Using the Tops
• How to Make Homemade Blueberry Syrup