How to Make Damson Plum Cordial (Syrup)

When I ended up with a huge number of damson plums this year I started looking for ways to use them. After making some jelly, I decided to make some damson plum cordial that I could add to seltzer or cocktails for a refreshing beverage.

Damson plums make a wonderfully fragrant, slightly tart cordial that’s perfect for summer refreshment or a winter treat when diluted. Making your own damson plum cordial is simple, and the flavor is far superior to store-bought alternatives.

You can also find articles on how to make Damson Plum jelly and how to grow damson plums or join our newsletter for weekly updates.

Why Make Damson Plum Cordial?

• Preserves your harvest – Transform your backyard damsons into a versatile, long-lasting drink.
• Customizable sweetness – Adjust sugar and water to your taste.
• Refreshing and versatile – Dilute with water, sparkling water, or use in cocktails for a unique flavor.

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Ingredients & Equipment

Ingredients

• 2 pounds of damson plums
• 1–2 cups of sugar (depending on desired sweetness – you can easily adjust this to your preference. The final cordial will be very sweet but remember you will dilute it in the drink
• 4 cups of water
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice (optional, to enhance flavor and preserve color)

Equipment

• Large saucepan
• Fine mesh strainer or jelly bag
• Sterilized bottles or jars with airtight lids
• Funnel

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Step 1: Prepare the Fruit

1. Wash the damsons thoroughly and remove any stems or blemished fruit.
2. Cut the plums in half to help release their juice during cooking.

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Step 2: Cook the Damsons

1. Place the halved plums in a large saucepan with 4 cups of water.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the plums are soft and the juice is released.
3. Mash the plums gently with a spoon to extract more flavor.

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Step 3: Strain the Juice

1. Pour the cooked plums and liquid into a fine mesh strainer or jelly bag over a bowl.
2. Let the juice drain naturally. Avoid pressing too hard to keep the cordial clear.
3. You should have approximately 4 cups of clear damson juice.

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Step 4: Sweeten and Boil

1. Pour the strained juice into a clean saucepan.
2. Add sugar and lemon juice, stirring over low heat until sugar dissolves completely.
3. Bring to a gentle boil and simmer for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Taste and adjust sugar if needed—you want the cordial to be sweet enough to dilute later.

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Step 5: Bottle the Cordial

1. Pour the hot cordial into sterilized bottles using a funnel.
2. Seal immediately with airtight lids.
3. Allow to cool completely at room temperature.

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How to Serve Damson Plum Cordial

• Diluted with water – Mix 1 part cordial with 4–5 parts still or sparkling water for a refreshing drink.
• In cocktails – Add a splash to gin, vodka, or prosecco for a fruity twist.
• Desserts – Drizzle over ice cream, pancakes, or fruit salads.

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Tips for Perfect Cordial

• Sterilize bottles – Boil bottles and lids for 10 minutes to prevent spoilage.
• Adjust sweetness – Start with less sugar and increase after tasting.
• Storage – Keep sealed bottles in a cool, dark place. Once opened, refrigerate and use within 3–4 weeks.
• Optional flavorings – Add cinnamon sticks, star anise, or fresh ginger for a seasonal twist.

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Enjoy Your Homemade Damson Plum Cordial

Making damson plum cordial is a simple way to capture the flavor of your backyard orchard. With just a few steps, you can create a versatile, delicious drink that’s perfect for family, friends, or gifting. Whether enjoyed diluted, in cocktails, or as a dessert topping, your homemade cordial will be a highlight of the season.