3-Ingredient Strawberry Compote is a simple yet luxurious way to brighten your favorite breakfasts and desserts. Made with just three ingredients—strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice—this easy compote simmers into a glossy, spoonable sauce bursting with real fruit flavor. Whether you’re spooning it over pancakes, layering into yogurt parfaits, or swirling it into cheesecake, this sweet-tart topping adds instant charm and homemade flair.
What makes this recipe extra special? It’s flexible! Use fresh or frozen berries depending on the season, and adjust the texture to your liking—from chunky and rustic to smooth and syrupy. Plus, it comes together in just 15 minutes with no fancy tools or prep needed.
Interestingly, compotes have been enjoyed since medieval times as a way to preserve fruit. Today, they’re back in style for their natural taste and versatility—especially when made fresh at home like this one.
So grab those berries and let’s get simmering—this one’s bound to become your new go-to topping!
Recipe Yield: ~1 ½ cups (serves 4–6)
INGREDIENTS
2 cups strawberries, hulled and halved (fresh or frozen)
1⁄4 cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Combine ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, add the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir gently to coat the berries in sugar and allow to sit for 5 minutes to release natural juices.
2. Simmer gently:
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Once it starts bubbling, reduce heat to medium-low and continue to simmer for 10–15 minutes, or until the strawberries have softened and the sauce thickens slightly.
3. Adjust texture:
For a chunkier compote, lightly mash some of the strawberries with the back of a spoon and leave others whole. For a smoother finish, mash all the berries or blend briefly with an immersion blender. Remove from heat and cool slightly before serving.
4. Serve or store:
Serve warm or chilled. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe
- Use Ripe Strawberries: The riper the berries, the sweeter and more flavorful your compote will be. Frozen strawberries also work great year-round—just simmer a few minutes longer.
- Control Sweetness Naturally: Start with the listed sugar amount and taste once simmered. If your berries are very ripe, you may reduce the sugar slightly next time.
- Versatile Serving Ideas: Drizzle over waffles, swirl into oatmeal, layer into parfaits, or use as a filling for pastries—this compote adds a vibrant burst of flavor anywhere.
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