A fresh Strawberry Sundae is the perfect way to use a flat of ripe strawberries. Warm strawberry sauce spooned over vanilla or chocolate ice cream creates a classic, simple dessert that’s bright, fragrant, and easy to make.
If you haven’t tried adding a small splash of rose water to strawberries, you’re missing a subtle floral note that lifts the fruit. It pairs especially well with strawberries and transforms a basic sauce into something memorable.
If you already made the Strawberry Tart for Two, you’ll recognize how rose water enhances strawberry flavor—and you’ll likely have a bit left in the bottle to use here. Rose water is easy to find at Middle Eastern markets, in the spice aisle of many grocery stores, or online. A little goes a long way.
Ingredients
- Strawberries: Hull and chop until you have 1 cup of diced fresh strawberries.
- Honey: I prefer honey for its floral notes, but 1 tablespoon granulated sugar works too. Either way, use 1 tablespoon water with the sweetener.
- Rose water: Optional, but 1/2 teaspoon added at the end deepens the strawberry aroma and flavor.
- Ice cream: Vanilla is the classic choice, though chocolate gelato is delicious if you prefer a richer contrast.
How to Make a Strawberry Sundae
Combine the diced strawberries, 1 tablespoon water, and 1 tablespoon honey (or sugar) in a small saucepan.
Bring to a boil, then simmer for 1 minute. Skim any foam from the surface, then remove from heat.
Let the sauce cool to room temperature, then stir in 1/2 teaspoon rose water if using.
Mash the berries with a fork for a rustic sauce, or blend briefly for a smooth texture. Adjust sweetness to taste.
Serve the strawberry sauce warm or chilled over scoops of vanilla or chocolate ice cream. Garnish with fresh strawberry halves for a pretty finish.
How to Store Leftovers
Store the strawberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Do not freeze — freezing changes the texture and dilutes the flavor.
Strawberry Sundae
Ingredients
- 1 cup diced fresh strawberries
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 tablespoon honey (or sugar)
- 1/2 teaspoon rose water (optional)
- 1 pint vanilla ice cream
Instructions
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In a small saucepan, combine the strawberries, water, and honey. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 1 minute. Skim any foam and remove from heat.
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Allow to cool to room temperature. Mash with a fork for a chunky sauce or blend for a smooth puree.
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Stir in the rose water, if using, and taste to adjust sweetness.
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Spoon the sauce over scoops of vanilla or chocolate ice cream and serve immediately.