Pineapple Dessert Sauce

Yield

8 servings · Approximately 2 cups

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh or canned pineapple, crushed or finely chopped
• ½ cup pineapple juice
• ¼–½ cup granulated sugar, to taste
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon or lime juice, optional
• Pinch of salt

Method

1. If using canned pineapple, drain it and reserve ½ cup of the juice.
2. Place the pineapple, pineapple juice, ¼ cup sugar, and salt in a 2-quart saucepan.
3. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture begins to simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer gently until the pineapple softens and the flavors blend.
5. Taste and add more sugar, if needed, depending on the pineapple's natural sweetness.
6. In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water until smooth.
7. Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the simmering pineapple sauce, stirring constantly.
8. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, until the sauce becomes slightly thickened and glossy.
9. Remove from the heat and stir in the lemon or lime juice, if using.
10. Let cool slightly before serving. For a smoother sauce, blend carefully once cooled.
11. Serve warm or chilled. Refrigerate leftovers promptly in an airtight container.

Kitchen notes

Practical Woman's Secret
Use crushed pineapple for a more uniform sauce or finely chopped pineapple for a chunkier texture. Add the cornstarch slurry only after the pineapple has simmered to prevent lumps and maintain a smooth, glossy finish.