Description
This easy Strawberry Compote recipe features fresh strawberries simmered with sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract to create a sweet and tangy fruit topping. Perfectly textured with a mix of mashed and chunky berries, this versatile compote can be served warm or chilled over pancakes, waffles, yogurt, cheesecake, or ice cream. It’s quick to prepare, vegan, gluten-free, and stores well in the refrigerator or freezer for convenient use.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice, ensuring the strawberries are hulled and halved for even cooking.
- Cook and Soften Strawberries: Cook the mixture over medium heat for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the strawberries soften and release their juices.
- Mash Berries for Texture: Lightly mash some of the berries with the back of a spoon or a potato masher, leaving some pieces chunky to maintain a pleasant texture in the compote.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the lemon zest and vanilla extract to infuse the compote with bright and aromatic flavors.
- Simmer to Thicken: Continue simmering for another 2–3 minutes until the compote slightly thickens to your desired consistency.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the compote cool before serving, either warm or chilled as preferred.
Notes
- This compote is delicious served warm or chilled over pancakes, waffles, yogurt, cheesecake, or ice cream.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freeze the compote for up to 2 months for longer storage.
- Adjust sugar quantity based on the sweetness of strawberries for a natural taste.
