Blueberry Sauce

Looking for a versatile and delicious way to add some fruity flavors to your desserts? This homemade blueberry sauce is perfect! It’s a quick and easy recipe that takes only 20 minutes, making it an ideal topping for cheesecakes, pancakes, waffles or even vanilla ice cream. The combination of fresh or frozen blueberries with a hint of lemon creates a burst of flavor that’s both sweet and tangy. Plus, making it at home means you can enjoy it fresh and free from preservatives.

Ingredients for Homemade Blueberry Sauce

• Sugar: Sugar provides the necessary sweetness to balance the tartness of the blueberries.
• Cornstarch: Cornstarch acts as a thickening agent to give the sauce a perfect consistency.
• Salt: Salt enhances the overall flavor to bring out the natural sweetness of the blueberries.
• Water: Water helps dissolve the sugar and cornstarch to form the base of the sauce.
• Fresh blueberries: Blueberries are the star of the show, offering a burst of fresh and fruity flavor. You can use either fresh or frozen berries, depending on availability.
• Lemon zest: Lemon zest adds a bright, citrusy note that complements the blueberries perfectly.
• Lemon juice: Lemon juice enhances the tartness and adds a refreshing tang to the sauce.
• Vanilla ice cream: Vanilla ice cream is perfect for serving the sauce warm or chilled. It adds a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the base

In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, cornstarch and salt. Gradually whisk in the water until the mixture is smooth.

Step 2: Cook the blueberries

Add the blueberries, lemon juice and lemon zest into the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.

Step 3: Thicken the sauce

Cook and stir until the sauce thickens. This should take two to three minutes. Some berries will remain whole, adding texture to the sauce.

Editor’s Tip: You can blend it using an immersion blender or regular blender after cooking if you prefer a smoother texture. Just be sure to let it cool slightly before blending to avoid splatters.

Blueberry Sauce Variations

• Add a hint of spice: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Use other fruits: Substitute half of the blueberries with raspberries or blackberries for a mixed berry sauce.
• Make it boozy: Stir in a tablespoon of your favorite liqueur, like Grand Marnier or Chambord for an adult twist.

How to Store Blueberry Sauce

To store your blueberry sauce allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to seven days.

How long does homemade blueberry sauce last?

Homemade blueberry sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to seven days.

Can you freeze blueberry sauce?

Yes, you can freeze blueberry sauce. Place the cooled sauce in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.

Blueberry Sauce Recipe Tips

How do you reheat blueberry sauce?

To reheat this recipe for blueberry syrup/sauce place it in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to avoid uneven heating.

What can you serve with blueberry sauce?

This sauce pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Spoon it over pancakes or waffles, mix it in with some cream cheese for a French toast filling or as a topping for Greek yogurt. It’s also fantastic drizzled over pound cake.

How do you thicken a berry sauce?

This homemade berry sauce gets its thickness from cornstarch and cooking. If your sauce is too thin, cook it longer on low to medium heat to allow more water to evaporate and thicken the sauce. Here are other tips for how to thicken sauce.

Can I make blueberry sauce without sugar?

It’s possible to make blueberry sauce with no sugar but it will likely taste tarter and may be thinner. Instead of cutting out the sugar altogether, try reducing the amount you use. Alternatively, you can use a different type of sweetener, like honey, agave or maple syrup. Here are more tips for reducing sugar in recipes.

How do you can homemade blueberry sauce?

To preserve blueberry sauce try this simple recipe for canned blueberry jam which puts your fresh summer fruit to work. It’s best to process the jam in a water bath canner which works well for high-acidity ingredients, including fruits.