Balsamic Strawberries

Isabella

Balsamic Strawberries are a simple yet sophisticated dessert where sweet, juicy berries meet the rich tang of balsamic vinegar. Gently sautéed until glossy and syrupy, this warm ruby-red topping pairs beautifully with creamy vanilla ice cream for an elegant treat that’s ready in minutes.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 8

Total Time 13

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 180

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Warm Strawberry Topping
1 tablespoon butter – Adds richness and helps the strawberries caramelize slightly.
2 cups fresh strawberries hulled and halved – Choose ripe, fragrant berries for the best flavor.
¼ cup granular sucralose sweetener such as Splenda® – Adjust to taste depending on your sweetness preference.
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar – Use a good-quality balsamic for deeper flavor complexity.
For Serving
4 scoops low-fat vanilla ice cream – Provides a creamy cool contrast to the warm fruit topping.
💡 Tip: If strawberries are not at peak sweetness you may increase the sweetener slightly. Conversely, if they’re very ripe, you can reduce it for a more natural taste.

Method

Rinse and thoroughly dry the strawberries. Hull by removing the green tops, then slice in halves (or quarters if large) for even cooking.
Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and allow it to melt completely, swirling to coat the pan evenly.
Add the strawberries to the skillet and sprinkle the sucralose sweetener evenly over them. Stir gently to coat. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the berries begin releasing their juices.
Drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the strawberries and stir to combine. Continue cooking for 4–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the juices slightly thicken and coat the back of a spoon. Avoid overcooking to maintain the berries’ shape.
Scoop the vanilla ice cream into serving bowls or glasses. Spoon the warm balsamic strawberries and syrup over each scoop. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use a high-quality, slightly aged balsamic vinegar for deeper flavor and natural sweetness. Taste the strawberries as they cook and adjust sweetness if needed. For added complexity, try a pinch of cinnamon, a splash of vanilla extract, or a light sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper. Garnish with fresh mint for color. Store leftover strawberry mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently before serving. Freezing is not recommended as the texture may become overly soft.