Orange Zest Sauce
Brighten up your dishes with a luscious homemade Orange Zest Sauce that’s as versatile as it is flavorful! This quick and easy recipe features fresh orange juice, fragrant orange zest, and a hint of vanilla, creating a perfectly balanced blend of sweetness and citrusy zest. A touch of butter adds richness while a cornstarch slurry ensures a silky-smooth texture. Ready in just 15 minutes, this vibrant sauce is ideal for drizzling over pancakes, waffles, ice cream, cakes, or even savory dishes like roasted chicken. Its bold citrus flavor and glossy finish make every bite unforgettable. Plus, it stores beautifully for up to five days, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining. Elevate your culinary creations with this delightful orange sauce today!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 0.25 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- 0.5 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 pinch pinch of salt
Instructions
In a small saucepan, combine the fresh orange juice, orange zest, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Whisk to combine and place the saucepan over medium heat.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar completely.
In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch and cold water until smooth to create a slurry.
Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering orange mixture while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
Continue to cook the sauce for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly.
Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth.
Remove the saucepan from the heat, and allow the sauce to cool slightly. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
Serve warm or at room temperature over your favorite dish. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
537 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 25.1 g | 32% | |
| Saturated Fat | 14.0 g | 70% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 62 mg | 21% | |
| Sodium | 146 mg | 6% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 80.0 g | 29% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.3 g | 8% | |
| Total Sugars | 70.8 g | ||
| Protein | 2.5 g | 5% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 40 mg | 3% | |
| Iron | 0.4 mg | 2% | |
| Potassium | 497 mg | 11% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
