Strawberry Balsamic Glaze for Vanilla Ice Cream

Name: Strawberry Balsamic Glaze for Vanilla Ice Cream
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Sweet Recipes

This delightful Strawberry Balsamic Glaze is the perfect topping for your vanilla ice cream, combining sweet and tangy flavors for a truly unique treat.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-14T14:30:16.614Z

This Strawberry Balsamic Glaze is a delightful addition to vanilla ice cream, elevating it to a gourmet dessert. The combination of sweet strawberries and rich balsamic vinegar creates a unique flavor profile that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bright and fresh strawberry flavor with a hint of tanginess
Easy to make with just a few ingredients
Elevates simple vanilla ice cream to a gourmet dessert

      

The Perfect Pairing

Strawberry Balsamic Glaze is not just a topping; it's a flavor enhancer that transforms your dessert experience. When drizzled over vanilla ice cream, the glaze creates a delightful contrast between the creamy texture and the sweet-tangy notes of strawberries and balsamic vinegar. This combination elevates even the simplest of desserts into something extraordinary, making it an ideal choice for special occasions or a simple weeknight treat.

The use of fresh strawberries adds a vibrant, fruity element that complements the rich, creamy ice cream perfectly. As the glaze seeps into the ice cream, it creates a deliciously messy, yet irresistible dessert. This versatility allows you to enjoy this glaze over other desserts or breakfast items, such as pancakes or waffles, making it a staple sauce in your culinary repertoire.

Health Benefits of Strawberries

Strawberries are not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. They are rich in antioxidants, particularly vitamin C, which helps protect the body from oxidative stress. This makes them a fantastic addition to your diet, especially when paired with the health benefits of balsamic vinegar, which is known to aid digestion and support heart health.

In addition to their antioxidant properties, strawberries are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a smart choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle. By creating this glaze, you're not just indulging your sweet tooth; you're also incorporating a nutritious, fruit-forward element into your dessert.

Tips for the Best Strawberry Balsamic Glaze

To ensure the best flavor, choose ripe and fresh strawberries. Look for berries that are firm and bright red, as these will provide the sweetest taste and the best texture. It's also essential to allow the strawberries to macerate in lemon juice, as this process enhances their natural sweetness while adding a subtle tartness that balances the glaze.

When cooking the balsamic vinegar and sugar, keep an eye on the mixture to prevent burning. Stirring occasionally will help achieve the right consistency. If you prefer a thicker glaze, feel free to simmer it longer, but remember that the glaze will thicken more as it cools. Experimenting with the cooking time will allow you to find your perfect balance.

Ingredients

For the Strawberry Balsamic Glaze

1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Combine all ingredients in a saucepan for a delicious glaze.

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries

In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and lemon juice. Set aside to macerate for about 5 minutes.

Cook the Balsamic Glaze

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the balsamic vinegar and granulated sugar. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture has thickened slightly.

Combine and Serve

Add the macerated strawberries to the balsamic glaze. Stir well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving over vanilla ice cream.

Enjoy your delicious dessert!

Serving Suggestions

This Strawberry Balsamic Glaze is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. While it is perfect over vanilla ice cream, consider drizzling it over cheesecake, panna cotta, or even a simple sponge cake for a delightful twist. The glaze adds depth and flavor, making any dessert feel gourmet.

For a refreshing summer treat, try pairing this glaze with yogurt or whipped cream for a light dessert. You can even use it as a topping for grilled chicken or pork to add a unique sweet and savory element to your meal.

Storage and Shelf Life

If you have any leftover Strawberry Balsamic Glaze, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about a week, allowing you to enjoy it multiple times throughout the week. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may thicken when chilled.

For longer storage, consider freezing the glaze in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a zip-top bag and store them in the freezer for up to three months. This way, you can have a quick and easy dessert topping ready whenever the craving strikes.

Experimenting with Flavors

Feel free to experiment with additional flavors in your Balsamic Glaze. You can infuse the balsamic vinegar with herbs like basil or mint for an aromatic twist. Alternatively, try mixing in a splash of orange juice or zest for a citrusy note that pairs beautifully with strawberries.

Adding a pinch of black pepper or a dash of chili flakes can introduce an unexpected depth of flavor, creating a unique glaze that surprises and delights. Don’t hesitate to play with these variations to find your favorite combination!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, frozen strawberries can be used, but fresh will give you the best flavor and texture.

→ How long can I store the glaze?

The glaze can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ Can I use this glaze on other desserts?

Absolutely! This glaze pairs well with pancakes, waffles, and cheesecake too.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is vegan as it does not contain any animal products.