Macerated Strawberries
Macerated strawberries are the best way to serve this fruit in a dessert or breakfast. This method leaves the berries soft, sweet, and extra juicy. A must-do step in any baked good with strawberries!
This recipe is so versatile! Macerating strawberries is a key step in my Zucchini Strawberry Bread recipe!
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Ingredients
This is such a simple recipe with just two ingredients!
- Strawberries
- White sugar
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Given there are just two ingredients, the preparation is extra simple!
- Wash strawberries thoroughly. Cut off the leaves then hull the stem out.
- Dice the strawberries and place in a bowl.
- Sprinkle the sugar over the strawberries. Mix together, then set aside at room temperature.
- Allow to macerate for about 30 minutes to two hours. The sugar will be soaked up and juices will puddle at the bottom of the bowl.
- Use the macerated strawberries in your favorite recipes!
Hulling strawberries
I find this the best way to prepare strawberries. You keep most of the fruit this way!
First, remove the leaves. Then, using a knife, cut out a circle where the stem is placed. You will cut out the stem and the white fibrous center, while keeping in tact the strawberry sides.
You can also use a strawberry huller, if you have one.
How to serve Macerated Strawberries
Macerated strawberries are best served as a part of a dessert, rather than by themselves. It’s the perfect way to prepare strawberries as an ingredient.
Some ideas of how to serve macerated strawberries:
- In a quick bread, such as my zucchini strawberry bread.
- On a tart. They’re great on my Strawberry Dulce de Leche Chocolate Tart!
- Topping pancakes or waffles (including whipped cream of course!)
- In a cheesecake, or on top.
- In a strawberry shortcake!
- As a part of a salad.
- On the side of a cheese board.
- In a cocktail.
There are plenty of other ways to serve macerated strawberries and I would love to hear your ideas!
Substitutions
You can use other berries to macerate, such as raspberries or blackberries. You can also macerate other fruits such as sliced peaches.
Variations
There are plenty of add-ins to macerated strawberries! Each of the below will alter the flavor profile differently.
- Rose water or vanilla extract – This would be great for baked goods or toppings.
- Bourbon – Adding that extra something something to your baked goods recipes.
- Lemon juice or balsamic vinegar – for some freshness. Perfect for baked goods or adding into salads!
- Basil or mint – Great for salads, cocktails, and some toppings.
Storage
Store the macerated strawberries in the refigerator for a few days, or freeze up to a year.
FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries?
No. This recipe is designed for fresh strawberries.
Can I freeze macerated strawberries?
Yes, for up to a year. You can freeze in ice cube container or in a bag.
How long do you macerate strawberries?
At least 30 minutes, but up to 2 hours. You don’t want the strawberries to get mushy.
Macerated Strawberries
Ingredients
- 2 cups chopped fresh strawberries
- 2 tablespoon white sugar
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash the strawberries. Pick off the leaves, then hull the stem out.
- Dice the strawberries and place into a bowl. Add the sugar and mix. Set aside for 30 minutes or up to two hours.
