The Best Blueberry Sauce
Enjoy the perfect Blueberry Sauce recipe, which combines fresh or frozen blueberries with zesty lemon, a little sugar, and a hint of almond. This easy-to-make sauce is ideal for topping pancakes, desserts, savory dishes, and much more. Elevate your dishes with this delicious, versatile blueberry sauce!
I’ve been making cheesecake for nearly 20 years now. I love all kind of cheesecakes but there’s one favorite fruity topping I love to use when I make cheesecakes. Can you guess what it is? This yummy blueberry sauce!
Whenever you add this blueberry sauce as cheesecake topping it brings the dessert to another level of yumminess! That’s why my baked blueberry cheesecake is one of the most popular cheesecakes on our blog – I believe that apart from the tasty cheesecake, the blueberry sauce topping elevates it!
Just last 4th of July I made my no bake white chocolate blueberry cheesecake as my dessert contribution in our gathering with friends. The moment I placed the cake on the dessert table, it was practically gone in seconds! They couldn’t resist the luscious and shiny blueberry sauce that was so inviting! I came home empty-handed and satisfied that my efforts in making the dessert was not in vain.
Blueberry sauce is a versatile and delicious topping that can elevate various dishes, from pancakes and waffles to cheesecakes and ice creams. This easy-to-make sauce combines the natural sweetness of blueberries with a hint of lemon and optional almond extract, creating a flavor that complements both sweet and savory dishes. In this blog post, we’ll explore a simple yet delectable blueberry sauce recipe and provide tips on making the most of this delightful sauce in your kitchen.
Ingredients for the Best Blueberry Sauce
- 2 1/2 cups of blueberries (fresh or frozen)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1/2 a lemon
- 3 tablespoons of sugar (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon of almond extract (optional)
How to Make the Best Blueberry Sauce
In a small saucepan, add the blueberries, lemon zest, lemon juice, and sugar. Place the saucepan over medium-low heat and simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
As the blueberries cook, they will begin to break down and release their juices. Continue to simmer until the sauce reaches your desired thickness. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the almond extract, if using. Allow the sauce to cool before using it as a topping or spreading it on your favorite desserts.
Tips for Making the Best Blueberry Sauce
Choice of Blueberries: Both fresh and frozen blueberries work well in this recipe. Fresh blueberries are ideal when they are in season, but frozen blueberries are a great alternative and are often more economical. Opt for organic blueberries if possible, as they tend to have lower pesticide residues.
Sweetness Level: The amount of sugar can be adjusted based on your preference and the natural sweetness of the blueberries. Start with 3 tablespoons and add more if needed. You can use alternative sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or stevia to reduce the sugar content.
Flavor Enhancers: Adding lemon zest enhances the flavor of the sauce and provides a fresh, tangy note. The almond extract is optional but adds a subtle nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with blueberries.
Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a small amount of cornstarch or arrowroot powder mixed with water to the simmering blueberries. Stir constantly to avoid lumps. For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to puree the sauce after it has cooked. If you prefer a chunkier texture, simply mash some of the blueberries with the back of a spoon.
Serving Suggestions
Blueberry sauce is incredibly versatile and can be used in numerous ways:
- Breakfast: Drizzle over pancakes, waffles, French toast, or oatmeal for a fruity start to your day.
- Desserts: Use as a topping for cheesecakes, ice creams, yogurt, or panna cotta.
- Savory Dishes: Pair with roasted meats like pork or duck for a sweet and savory combination.
- Baked Goods: Incorporate into muffins, scones, or as a filling for pastries.
Storage
Store the blueberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use other berries instead of blueberries? Yes, you can substitute blueberries with other berries like raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries. The cooking time and sweetness level may vary, so adjust accordingly.
Can I make this sauce without sugar? Yes, you can make a sugar-free version by using natural sweeteners like stevia, erythritol, or monk fruit sweetener. Adjust the quantity based on your taste preference.
How can I thicken the sauce without cornstarch? You can use arrowroot powder or tapioca starch as alternatives to cornstarch. Mix a small amount with water and add to the simmering sauce while stirring constantly.
Can I can this blueberry sauce? Canning blueberry sauce is possible, but it’s important to follow safe canning practices. Ensure the sauce is properly processed in a water bath canner to prevent spoilage.
What dishes pair well with blueberry sauce? Blueberry sauce pairs well with a variety of dishes, including pancakes, waffles, cheesecakes, ice creams, roasted meats, and baked goods.
How long does blueberry sauce last in the refrigerator? Blueberry sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week in an airtight container.
Can I freeze blueberry sauce? Yes, blueberry sauce can be frozen for up to three months. Store in a freezer-safe container and thaw in the refrigerator before use.
Is it necessary to use lemon juice in the recipe? Lemon juice adds a tangy flavor and helps balance the sweetness of the blueberries. It also acts as a natural preservative. I suggest make it with lemon juice as it’s so much better with it than without it.
Can I make a larger batch of blueberry sauce? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to make a larger batch. Adjust the amount of lemon juice and sugar plus the cooking time as needed to ensure the sauce thickens properly.
What can I do if my sauce is too thick? If your sauce becomes too thick, simply add a small amount of water or lemon juice to thin it out to your desired consistency.
This simple blueberry sauce recipe is a delightful addition to any kitchen. Its versatility and delicious flavor make it a must-try for anyone looking to enhance their sweet or savory dishes. Whether you’re topping pancakes, drizzling over cheesecake, or pairing with roasted meats, this blueberry sauce is sure to impress. Enjoy experimenting with different variations and serving suggestions to make this recipe your own.
The BEST Blueberry Sauce
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups of blueberries, fresh or frozen
- 1 piece lemon, zested
- Juice of 1/2 a lemon
- 3 tablespoons of sugar, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon of almond extract, optional
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, add the blueberries, lemon zest, lemon juice, and sugar.
- Place the saucepan over medium-low heat and simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- As the blueberries cook, they will begin to break down and release their juices. Continue to simmer until the sauce reaches your desired thickness.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the almond extract, if using. Allow the sauce to cool before using it as a topping or spreading it on your favorite desserts.