Fresh Strawberry Sauce is a simple, flavorful topping that transforms ordinary desserts into something extraordinary. This quick and easy recipe by Nora from Savory Nothings is perfect for cheesecake, pound cake, ice cream, or whipped cream, giving them a fresh, vibrant strawberry flavor that tastes like summer in a spoon.
This professional guide will walk you through the ingredients, preparation, tips, and FAQs to make the perfect strawberry sauce every time.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, rinsed, hulled, and halved or quartered
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (or more to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation Method
1. Prepare the Strawberries
Rinse the strawberries gently and remove the green tops. Cut larger berries into quarters and smaller ones in halves for even cooking.
2. Combine Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir gently and let sit for 2–3 minutes to allow the sugar to draw out the fruit juices.
3. Cook the Sauce
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally as the strawberries soften and release juice.
4. Thicken the Sauce
Add the cornstarch and stir continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. Adjust cornstarch quantity for desired thickness.
5. Add Vanilla
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to enhance flavor and aroma.
6. Serve or Store
Allow the sauce to cool slightly. Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Tips for Perfect Strawberry Sauce
- Use ripe, fragrant strawberries for the best flavor.
- For a smoother sauce, mash berries slightly during cooking.
- Adjust sugar and lemon juice to balance sweetness and tartness.
- Stir continuously after adding cornstarch to avoid lumps.
- For a thicker sauce, add more cornstarch and simmer slightly longer.
Serving Suggestions
- Drizzle over cheesecake or pound cake
- Spoon over ice cream or whipped cream
- Layer in parfaits or yogurt
- Use as a topping for pancakes or waffles
- Incorporate into desserts like sponge cakes or custards
Fresh Strawberry Sauce (Strawberry Topping): A Delicious, Easy-to-Make Treat
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This fresh Strawberry Topping or Sauce is quick and easy to make and tastes delicious as a topping for cheesecake or pound cake or as a sauce with ice cream or whipped cream.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, rinsed, hulled and halved or quartered
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (or more to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Add strawberries, sugar and lemon juice to a saucepan.
- Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat while stirring.
- Mix cornstarch with a little water to make a slurry.
- Stir slurry into the sauce and simmer until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Add more cornstarch if you prefer a thicker sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes. Thaw them first and include the juices in cooking. The sauce will taste slightly softer but still delicious.
2. How do I make the sauce thicker?
Add a little more cornstarch and cook until it reaches your desired consistency.
3. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days and gently reheat before serving.
4. Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, adjust gradually to taste, keeping in mind sugar affects both sweetness and texture.
5. Is this sauce served hot or cold?
It can be served warm, room temperature, or chilled, depending on your preference or dessert.
This easy Fresh Strawberry Sauce is a versatile, vibrant topping that adds color, flavor, and freshness to desserts. Its simple ingredients and quick preparation make it a must-have recipe for any home cook who loves to elevate sweet treats effortlessly.
