Name: Perfect Homemade Hollandaise Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 3 large egg yolks; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and kept warm; Pinch of cayenne pepper; Salt, to taste

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This homemade hollandaise sauce is smooth, rich, and full of flavor, yet incredibly easy to make with just a few ingredients. The subtle tang from fresh lemon juice, the richness from butter, and the delicate balance of seasonings make it the perfect accompaniment to a variety of dishes. With this recipe, you’ll be able to whip up a flawless hollandaise every time—no need for store-bought alternatives!

Ingredients

3 large egg yolks
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and kept warm
Pinch of cayenne pepper
Salt, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Double Boiler:
Fill a saucepan with about an inch of water and bring it to a gentle simmer. Place a heatproof bowl over the saucepan, ensuring the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water.
Whisk the Egg Yolks:
In the heatproof bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and lemon juice until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
Cook the Egg Mixture:
Place the bowl over the simmering water. Continuously whisk the egg mixture until it becomes pale and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Be careful to keep the heat low to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
Incorporate the Butter:
Slowly drizzle the warm melted butter into the egg mixture while whisking constantly. Continue until all the butter is incorporated and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Season the Sauce:
Remove the bowl from the heat. Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper and salt to taste. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it with a teaspoon of warm water.
Serve Immediately:
Hollandaise sauce is best served fresh. Drizzle it over eggs Benedict, steamed asparagus, or your favorite vegetables.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2-4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Cheesy Hollandaise: Add freshly grated Parmesan or Gruyère cheese for a rich, savory twist.
Herbed Hollandaise: Stir in fresh herbs like tarragon or chives for added flavor.
Spicy Hollandaise: Add a pinch of hot sauce or a dash of paprika for a spicy kick.
Eggless Hollandaise: For a vegan option, try substituting the egg yolks with silken tofu or use aquafaba as a base.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Hollandaise sauce is best served immediately. If you need to keep it warm, set it in a warm area or gently heat it over low heat while whisking occasionally.
Reheating: If necessary, gently reheat the sauce on low heat while whisking constantly. Be careful not to overheat, as the sauce may separate.

FAQs

Can I make hollandaise sauce without a double boiler?

Yes! If you don’t have a double boiler, you can place the heatproof bowl directly over a very low flame, but be cautious not to let the bowl touch the water. Alternatively, you can use a heatproof bowl and a pot over low heat.

What can I serve with hollandaise sauce?

Hollandaise sauce is traditionally served with eggs Benedict, but it’s also fantastic with steamed asparagus, grilled steak, fish, roasted vegetables, or even as a topping for baked potatoes.

How long can I keep hollandaise sauce?

Hollandaise is best enjoyed immediately due to its delicate nature. If needed, you can keep it warm for a short period, but it should be consumed within an hour of making it.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?

If the sauce is too thick, simply whisk in a teaspoon of warm water or more melted butter until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I use alternative fats instead of butter?

For a healthier alternative, you can use clarified butter or ghee, which has a higher smoke point and creates a similar texture. However, the classic hollandaise flavor comes from regular unsalted butter.

Conclusion

Making your own hollandaise sauce at home is easier than you might think, and this recipe ensures a smooth, velvety sauce that can elevate any meal. Whether you enjoy it with eggs, vegetables, or seafood, this homemade version will impress with its rich flavor and creamy texture. Serve it fresh for the best experience, and enjoy the luxury of perfect hollandaise every time!

Perfect Homemade Hollandaise Sauce Recipe

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Homemade hollandaise sauce is a rich and creamy French classic, perfect for elevating eggs, vegetables, or seafood. With a velvety texture and tangy lemon flavor, this easy recipe ensures flawless results every time.

Author: Amy
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 2-4 servings
Category: Sauce
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: French
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

3 large egg yolks

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and kept warm

Pinch of cayenne pepper

Salt, to taste

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Instructions

Fill a saucepan with about an inch of water and bring it to a gentle simmer. Place a heatproof bowl over the saucepan, ensuring the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water.
In the heatproof bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and lemon juice until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
Place the bowl over the simmering water. Continuously whisk the egg mixture until it becomes pale and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Be careful to keep the heat low to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
Slowly drizzle the warm melted butter into the egg mixture while whisking constantly. Continue until all the butter is incorporated and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Remove the bowl from the heat. Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper and salt to taste. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it with a teaspoon of warm water.
Serve immediately, drizzling over eggs Benedict, steamed asparagus, or your favorite vegetables.