Description
This strawberry cake filling is a quick and easy homemade fruit topping perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and pastries. Made with fresh strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and a touch of cornstarch for the perfect thick consistency, it cooks in just 20 minutes to deliver a sweet, vibrant, and slightly tangy flavor that enhances any dessert.
Ingredients
Filling
- 3 cups Strawberries (sliced in half)
- 1/4 cup Granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice
- 1 tsp Lemon zest (optional)
- 1 tsp Cornstarch (mixed with a little bit of water to form a slurry)
Instructions
- Prepare Strawberries: Wash, hull, and chop the fresh strawberries or use frozen. For a chunkier texture in the filling, leave the strawberries in slightly larger pieces.
- Combine Ingredients: Place the strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and optional lemon zest in a saucepan. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it begins to bubble and the strawberries release their juices.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and encourage even cooking.
- Mix Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a little water until smooth to create a slurry. This will help thicken the filling without lumps.
- Thicken the Filling: Add the cornstarch slurry to the strawberry mixture and stir constantly while cooking to avoid lumps. Continue stirring and cooking until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, which usually takes several minutes.
- Cool and Store: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the filling to cool completely. It will continue to thicken as it cools. Use immediately in cakes, cupcakes, or pastries, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days.
Notes
- If you prefer a smoother filling, mash the strawberries slightly or puree the mixture before adding the cornstarch slurry.
- Adjust the sugar amount based on the sweetness of your strawberries and your taste preference.
- Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra flavor if desired.
- The filling can be frozen for longer storage; thaw before use.
- Use fresh lemon zest to enhance freshness but it’s optional if unavailable.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Cake Filling
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
