Homemade Strawberry Sauce Topping

This homemade strawberry sauce is a delightful addition to a variety of dishes, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. Made with fresh strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, this sauce enhances the flavor of desserts and breakfast items alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients: Requires only a few basic ingredients commonly found in most kitchens.
Quick Preparation: Can be prepared in just 15 minutes.
Versatile Usage: Ideal for topping cheesecakes, pancakes, waffles, ice cream, and more.
Customizable Texture: Easily adjust the consistency to your preference, whether chunky or smooth.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be stored and reheated, making it convenient for future use.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
⅓ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Directions

In a medium saucepan, combine the strawberries and sugar. Stir to coat the strawberries evenly.
In a small bowl, mix the lemon juice, vanilla extract, and cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture over the strawberries.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the strawberries have softened and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Approximately 6 servings
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Berry Mix: Substitute half of the strawberries with blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry sauce.
Citrus Twist: Add a teaspoon of orange zest for a citrusy flavor.
Spiced Version: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice note.
Sugar Alternatives: Use honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a different sweetness profile.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store the cooled sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Freezing: Freeze the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.
Reheating: Warm the sauce in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring as needed.

FAQs

What can I use this strawberry sauce for?

This sauce is perfect for topping desserts like cheesecakes, ice cream, and pancakes, or even as a filling for pastries.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, frozen strawberries can be used. There’s no need to thaw them before cooking; just extend the cooking time slightly.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, add a slurry made of 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water during cooking.

Is it possible to make this sauce sugar-free?

Yes, you can use sugar substitutes like stevia or erythritol. Adjust the quantity to taste.

Can I blend the sauce for a smoother texture?

Absolutely. Use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the sauce to your desired consistency.

How long does the sauce last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it lasts up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Can I add other fruits to this sauce?

Yes, combining strawberries with other berries like blueberries or raspberries works well.

Is this sauce suitable for canning?

This recipe is not designed for canning. For long-term storage, freezing is recommended.

Can I double the recipe?

Certainly. Simply double all the ingredients, keeping the cooking time the same, and ensure your saucepan is large enough.

Does the sauce thicken as it cools?

Yes, the sauce will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.

Conclusion

This homemade strawberry sauce is a versatile and delightful addition to many dishes. Its simple preparation and the ability to customize make it a staple recipe for any kitchen. Whether you’re enhancing a dessert or adding flavor to your breakfast, this sauce is sure to impress.