Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Jar of mixed berry compote with spoon

How Do You Thicken Fruit Compote? 6 Foolproof Fixes


  • Author: Megan
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: About 2 cups

Description

Tired of runny fruit compote? Here’s exactly how to thicken it without ruining the flavor—no weird ingredients, just real kitchen fixes that work.


Ingredients

  • Fresh or frozen fruit (berries, peaches, apples, etc.)
  • Sugar or sweetener of choice
  • Optional: lemon juice, zest, vanilla, cinnamon
  • For thickening: cornstarch, arrowroot powder, chia seeds, or pectin
  • Water (for mixing thickeners)

Instructions

  1. Simmer fruit with sugar and flavorings over medium heat until soft and juicy.
  2. Option 1: Reduce by simmering uncovered until thickened naturally.
  3. Option 2: Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch or arrowroot with 2 tbsp cold water, stir into compote, and simmer 1–2 minutes until thick.
  4. Option 3: Stir in 1 tbsp chia seeds per cup of fruit and let sit 10–15 minutes to gel.
  5. Option 4: Blend 1/3 of the cooked compote and stir back in for natural thickening.
  6. Option 5: Add 1–2 tsp pectin with sugar at end of cooking for jam-like texture.
  7. Let compote cool—thickness will increase as it sets.

Notes

Choose your thickening method based on the fruit type, time available, and how you’ll use the compote. Always mix thickeners with cold water first to avoid lumps.

  • Prep Time: 5 minute
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Universal

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 Cups
  • Calories: 35
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 1mg
  • Fat: 0g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg