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Top-down view of the thickened raspberry sauce being transferred into a heat-safe container. The sauce is glossy and smooth, showing off the rich color of the raspberries before cooling down to room temperature.

Raspberry Filling For Cake

This vibrant raspberry filling features fresh or frozen raspberries, sweetened and thickened with a touch of cornstarch and sugar. It's a luscious blend of tart and sweet, perfect for adding a burst of fruity flavor to cakes and pastries.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Cooling Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Condiments
Cuisine American
Servings 12 people
Calories 37 kcal

Equipment

  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Small saucepan
  • Heatproof container

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp water
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice optional, but recommended for best flavor
  • ⅓  cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups fresh or frozen raspberries
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch

Instructions
 

  • In a small saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar and cornstarch until well blended.
    Top-down view of a small saucepan placed on a white marble cooktop. Granulated sugar and cornstarch are being whisked together, creating a fine powdery mixture that serves as the dry base for the raspberry sauce.
  • Add raspberries, water, and lemon juice, stirring to combine all ingredients.
    Top-down view of a saucepan as fresh or frozen raspberries, water, and lemon juice are added to the sugar-cornstarch mixture. The raspberries are beginning to break down, with the liquid ingredients mixing into the dry base.
  • Set the heat to medium, being careful not to raise it higher, as slow heating ensures the sugar dissolves properly and the mixture thickens evenly.
  • Stir frequently as the raspberries release their juices and the mixture starts to bubble, which usually takes around 7 minutes.
    Top-down view of the saucepan over medium heat as the raspberry mixture bubbles gently. The raspberries are releasing their juices, and the sauce is thickening while being stirred, with the texture becoming smoother and thicker.
  • Continue cooking for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
  • Keep in mind, that it will further thicken as it cools, so avoid overcooking to prevent it from becoming too stiff.
  • Once done, transfer the mixture to a heat-safe container and let it cool to room temperature before using.
    Top-down view of the thickened raspberry sauce being transferred into a heat-safe container. The sauce is glossy and smooth, showing off the rich color of the raspberries before cooling down to room temperature.
  • If not used immediately, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week.
  • To loosen after refrigeration, microwave for a few seconds until spreadable.

Notes

  • Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar depending on your taste preference.
  • Use fresh raspberries for a brighter flavor, but frozen raspberries work well too.