23 September 2026
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THE UNIVERSAL GASTRONOMY AUTHORITY
World Kitchen Journal
I make it every year around this time. This grandma-inspired syrup is a powerful boost of vitamin C.
Technique
By Claire Beaumont, the Technique desk · 4d ago · Poland · 2 min ·

I make it every year around this time. This grandma-inspired syrup is a powerful boost of vitamin C.

In autumn, as the temperature outside drops, we often turn to various home remedies to help boost our immunity.

Ingredients
  • 30
  • Calorie count
  • 155 in each serving
  • 1 kg of quince
  • 1 kg of sugar
  • Preparation method
Method
  1. Preparing the Quinces: Wash the quinces thoroughly. Peel them, cut them into smaller pieces, and remove the cores. Cut the fruit into thin slices or small cubes.
  2. Arranging the fruit and sugar: Prepare a large, clean, sterilized jar. Place alternating layers of quince and sugar in it.
  3. Waiting: Seal the jar and set aside in a cool place for about 3–4 days. Gently shake or stir the contents occasionally to evenly dissolve the sugar and release as much juice as possible from the fruit. After a few days, a fragrant, golden syrup should form.
  4. Straining the syrup: Pour it through a strainer into a clean jar or bottle. If you prefer a clearer syrup, you can also strain it through cheesecloth. Store the finished syrup in the refrigerator.

Quince syrup recipe

Quince season will soon begin in Poland, lasting until the end of October. It's worth taking advantage of this special time to prepare preserves. Quince is an excellent source of vitamin C, but it also contains a significant amount of antioxidants, which help protect cells from oxidative stress, which can lead to accelerated aging and many chronic diseases.

This syrup has a distinct, slightly sour flavor. It's perfect as an addition to warm tea, for example. You can also mix it with water to create a delicious drink. Interestingly, this syrup can also be used as a sauce for meat, perfectly balancing its flavor. You can also drizzle it over cakes, pancakes, or ice cream, or add it to various smoothies.

You can store this syrup in a tightly sealed jar or bottle in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. The fruit must be completely covered with syrup, and the container must be perfectly clean and dry. If you notice air bubbles, a slight sediment, or a wine-like odor, it means the syrup has begun to ferment. If you want your preserves to last a full year (or even longer) in your pantry or basement, it's worth pasteurizing them.

Recipe: Quince syrup

  • Drink
  • Type of kitchen
  • Traditional
  • Number of servings

How else can you use quince?

Quince can also be used in other ways. One of them is making jam. You can also make compote from this fruit. Some people enjoy making quince liqueur, but it's important to remember that there is no safe amount of alcohol. Quince also pairs well with apples, cinnamon, and cloves, so it can be used in cakes and other desserts.

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