Warm Mixed Berry Topping (Printable Version)

A luscious, warm blend of berries sweetened with sugar or maple syrup, ideal for various dishes.

# What You Need:

01 - 2 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen; e.g., strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)

02 - 3 tablespoons granulated sugar or maple syrup

03 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

04 - ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

05 - 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water (optional)

01 - In a medium saucepan, combine the berries and sugar or maple syrup.

02 - Cook over medium heat, stirring gently, until the berries begin to release their juices, about 3 to 4 minutes.

03 - Stir in fresh lemon juice and vanilla extract if using.

04 - If a thicker compote is desired, add the cornstarch slurry and stir continuously. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened.

05 - Remove from heat and serve warm over pancakes, waffles, oatmeal, yogurt, or ice cream.

01 -

It rescues sad frozen berries and turns them into something vibrant and craveable.
You can make it while the coffee brews and it still feels like you cooked something special.
It works on everything from pancakes to ice cream without feeling like the same topping twice.

02 -

Don't crank the heat too high or the sugar will scorch before the berries break down.
If you want some berries to stay whole, stir less and let them cook gently instead of mashing them.

03 -

Use a mix of berries for complexity, one type alone can taste one-note.
If the compote tastes too sweet at the end, a tiny pinch of salt fixes it instantly.