1. Start by combining all the strawberries and sugar in a small pot. Make sure you’re using a pot that’s the right size for the amount; you don’t want it too crowded. Stir the mixture gently as you place it over medium heat. You’ll start to see the strawberries begin to soften and release their juices.
2. Once the mixture heats up, lower the heat to medium-low. This will allow the strawberries to simmer gently. Keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally. You want to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot. At this point, you can smell the sweet aroma filling your kitchen!
3. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes. The strawberries will start to break down, and the sauce will thicken slightly. You'll notice the vibrant color deepening as it cooks, making it look even more appealing.
4. After 20 minutes, it's time to add the optional vanilla extract. Stir it in and let it simmer for just a couple more minutes. This will infuse the sauce with that warm, comforting flavor.
5. Once it’s done, remove the pot from the heat. Allow the sauce to cool slightly before serving. You can serve it warm or cold, depending on your preference. The Homemade Strawberry Sauce is perfect on pancakes, ice cream, or even as a topping for cake.
