Description

This Thick Strawberry Compote for Layer Cakes is rich, glossy, and perfectly stable for stacking cakes. Made with fresh strawberries, lemon juice, and just the right amount of sugar, this homemade strawberry filling holds beautifully between cake layers without leaking or sliding. Ideal for birthday cakes, wedding cakes, cupcakes, and cheesecakes, this easy strawberry compote delivers intense berry flavor and a thick texture every time.

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups (600g) fresh strawberries, hulled and finely chopped
3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons cold water
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

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Instructions

Wash, hull, and finely chop the strawberries into small, even pieces.
Add strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt to a medium saucepan.
Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries release their juices and begin to simmer (about 5–7 minutes).
In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and cold water until completely smooth.
Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering strawberry mixture while stirring constantly.
Continue cooking and stirring for 3–5 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Allow the compote to cool completely before spreading between cake layers. It will thicken further as it cools.

Notes

For a thicker consistency, simmer 1–2 minutes longer while stirring continuously. If using frozen strawberries, thaw completely and drain excess liquid before cooking. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Always use chilled compote when assembling layer cakes to prevent sliding.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: B
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: International

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
Calories: 60
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 5mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg