Are you ready to elevate your dessert game with a sauce so simple yet incredibly delicious that it'll make your taste buds dance? This Easiest Lemon Dessert Sauce is your secret weapon to turning ordinary sweets into extraordinary culinary masterpieces. In just 15 minutes, you'll create a bright, tangy, and silky-smooth sauce that can drizzle magic over everything from cakes and ice cream to pancakes and fruit tarts. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this foolproof recipe that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, and cornstarch. Whisk the ingredients together until the cornstarch is completely dissolved and no lumps remain.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and begin stirring constantly. The mixture will start to thicken and become translucent as it heats.
- Once the mixture begins to simmer and starts to bubble, continue cooking for 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
- Remove the pan from heat and immediately stir in fresh lemon juice and lemon zest. The sauce will become smooth and bright yellow.
- Whisk vigorously to ensure all ingredients are well combined and the sauce has a consistent texture.
- Allow the sauce to cool for 5 minutes. It will continue to thicken as it cools to room temperature.
- Transfer the sauce to a serving container or storage jar. The sauce can be served warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
- If not serving immediately, cover and refrigerate. The sauce will keep for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Tips
- Whisk Thoroughly: When combining cornstarch with sugar and water, whisk until completely smooth to prevent lumps in your final sauce.
- Constant Stirring: Keep stirring continuously while the sauce is heating to prevent burning and ensure even thickening.
- Zest Matters: Use fresh lemon zest for the most vibrant citrus flavor. Avoid the white pith, which can add bitterness.
- Temperature Control: Use medium heat and watch for the first signs of simmering to prevent overcooking.
- Cool and Thicken: Let the sauce cool for a few minutes, as it will continue to thicken at room temperature.
- Storage Hack: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will keep fresh for up to 5 days.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve warm for a silky drizzle or chilled for a more set consistency.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 130kcal
Carbohydrates: 33g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg