Get ready to elevate your baking game with this incredibly simple yet absolutely divine homemade strawberry cake filling! Imagine cutting into a cake and revealing a luscious, vibrant red filling that bursts with fresh strawberry flavor - this recipe is your ticket to dessert perfection. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this foolproof method will transform your cakes from ordinary to extraordinary in just 25 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 cups
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Wash and hull the fresh strawberries, then chop them into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and distribution throughout the filling.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and water. Stir the ingredients together until the cornstarch is fully dissolved and no lumps remain.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly to prevent the bottom from burning or sticking.
- Continue cooking and stirring for approximately 8-10 minutes, or until the mixture thickens significantly and becomes glossy. The filling should coat the back of a spoon and have a jam-like consistency.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let the strawberry filling cool completely at room temperature. The filling will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Once cooled, transfer the filling to a clean, airtight container. If not using immediately, store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Before using as a cake filling, allow the mixture to come to room temperature and give it a gentle stir to restore its smooth consistency.
Tips
- Choose the Ripest Strawberries: The key to an incredible filling is using fresh, ripe strawberries at the peak of their season. Look for bright red, fragrant berries with no white or green patches.
- Prevent Lumpy Filling: Thoroughly dissolve the cornstarch before heating to ensure a smooth, glossy consistency. Stir constantly and use a whisk if needed.
- Watch the Heat: Maintain a gentle simmer, not a rapid boil. This helps the filling thicken evenly without burning.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the filling to cool completely at room temperature. This helps it set and develop a perfect jam-like texture.
- Storage Hack: If not using immediately, this filling can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it perfect for advance preparation.
- Serving Tip: Let the filling come to room temperature before using to restore its smooth consistency and maximize flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 50kcal
Carbohydrates: 13g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
