Berry Compote
This easy 5-ingredient berry compote recipe takes just 10 minutes to make and is the perfect topping for desserts, morning dishes like pancakes and oats, and more!
Here’s a fruity topping recipe that’s so great to have in your back pocket for when you need it. It’s quick and easy, so adaptable, and can be used in such a wide variety of ways.
I love to use a mix of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries during the height or summer berry season. However, you can use any combination of berries you want, and you can even used frozen berries and enjoy this mixed berry compote year-round.
Table of Contents
- What is a compote?
- Ingredients you'll need for this recipe
- How to make easy berry compote
- Ways to use berry compote
- Recipe FAQs
- Get the recipe
What is a compote?
And what is the difference between jam and compote? Or coulis, berry sauce, fruit puree, etc? These are all different types of berry toppings or sauces, and the main difference is in the consistency and how its made. Berry “compote” is a chunky fruit sauce made by simmering whole or large pieces of fruit with sugar or syrup. Compote is usually more liquid and less sweet than jam and is a lot quicker to make.
Ingredients you’ll need for this recipe
- Berries— fresh berries or frozen berries
- Sugar— to add sweetness, but you can also use honey or maple syrup
- Lemon— we’ll use both fresh lemon juice and lemon zest to add balance and brightness
- Vanilla extract— to add an additional depth to the flavor
- Cornstarch and water— to thicken up the sauce just a bit
How to make easy berry compote
- Add all ingredients to a saucepan. Combine whatever berries you’re using with the sugar, lemon zest and fresh lemon juice.
- Simmer until berries soften. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until berries start to burst and soften.Â
- Add cornstarch slurry. Stir together cornstarch and water to make a “slurry” and add to the pot. Stir until combined and cook for another minute or two until mixture thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and cool. Once off the heat, stir in the vanilla extract and let the compote cool to room temperature.
- Use right away or store. Berry compote will keep in the fridge stored in a jar for 1-2 weeks.
Ways to use berry compote
The options are endless! Use it as a delicious topping to spoon over:
- All sorts of desserts like ice cream, cake, cheesecake, and pavlova
- Morning dishes like yogurt and oats
- Breakfast treats like pancakes, waffles, French toast and crepes
Recipe FAQs
Yes, you can use honey or maple syrup. Start with 1 tablespoon and add more to taste.Â
Yes, absolutely! Frozen berries are so great in this recipe when they’re out of season. No need to thaw them before making this recipe, but you will need to add a few minutes of cooking time.
This recipe has specifically been developed using berries, but other fruits such as peaches, cherries, pears, etc. should work. Sugar amounts and cook time will need to be adjusted. Add sugar to taste and cook until fruit is soft and slightly thickened.
Get the recipe
Berry Compote
Ingredients
- 2 cup (285 grams) fresh or fresh berries , such as strawberries, blueberries, blackberries and/or raspberries
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 lemon , zest and ¼ cup lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon water
Instructions
- Add fruit, sugar, lemon zest and lemon juice to a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes until berries start to burst and soften.
- Combine cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Add to the saucepan and stir to combine. Continue to cook for 1-2 minutes until thickened.
- Remove from heat and let cool completely. If making ahead, store in the fridge until ready to serve. Berry compote will keep for 1-2 weeks.
This was super helpful and easy to follow. Thanks for sharing!
Amazing! With just 5 ingredients and 10 minutes of prep time, you have a delicious and versatile topping for any dessert or breakfast.
Completely Delicious’ Berry Compote recipe is a great choice for anyone looking to add a fruity twist to their dishes. With just five ingredients and a quick 10-minute cooking time, it’s as simple as it is effective.