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How To Thicken Hollandaise Sauce (15 Easy Methods)

Have you ever wanted to make a delicious hollandaise sauce but been frustrated when it just wouldn’t thicken?

If so, you’re not alone!

Hollandaise sauce can be tricky to get right, and it takes practice.

But don’t worry – there are many easy ways to thicken hollandaise sauce that will give you the perfect consistency every time.

In this article, I’ll share 15 of the best methods for thickening hollandaise sauce quickly and easily.

So whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, these tips will help you create a delicious dish in no time at all!

Hollandaise sauce

How To Thicken Hollandaise Sauce?

To thicken hollandaise sauce, whisk together an equal amount of butter and flour until they form a paste. Slowly add this paste to the hollandaise while continuously stirring. You can also use cornstarch or egg yolks to thicken it; just be sure to keep stirring until desired consistency is reached.

Hollandaise sauce is a classic French sauce that can be hard to master. One of the main problems people have with it is that it can be too thin.

If you’re looking for ways to thicken hollandaise sauce, here are fifteen easy methods you can use:

Add more egg yolks

When it comes to the delectable hollandaise sauce, there are a multitude of ways to achieve the perfect consistency. One factor to consider is the richness of emulsifiers, which are crucial for its creamy texture. Increasing the number of egg yolks is a surefire way to up the emulsifier ratio, thereby making the sauce thicker and creamier.

Use a roux

Another method is the use of a roux, a concoction of flour and fat that when cooked together, can thicken sauces to an ideal consistency. The added bonus of a nutty flavor is a delightful touch that can elevate any hollandaise sauce.

Add a cornstarch slurry

For a quick and easy thickening agent, a cornstarch slurry can do the trick. This common thickener can be mixed with a small amount of water and added to the hollandaise sauce, quickly thickening it to your desired consistency.

Add a beurre manié

Alternatively, a beurre manié can be utilized, which, like a roux, consists of flour and butter. Unlike a roux, it is added directly to the sauce without being cooked separately, giving it a distinct texture.

Use arrowroot starch or potato starch

For those who prefer gluten-free options, arrowroot starch and potato starch can also be used as alternatives to cornstarch. They provide the same thickening effect and a unique flavor profile.

Add cream or crème fraîche

Adding cream or crème fraîche is another option for creating a richer, thicker sauce. This method imparts a slight tanginess to the hollandaise sauce.

Add a reduction of white wine or vinegar

For those looking to intensify the flavors of the sauce, a reduction of white wine or vinegar can do the trick. By evaporating some of the liquid, the sauce thickens while also becoming more concentrated in flavor.

Use a reduction of hollandaise sauce itself

An easy solution for thickening hollandaise sauce is to simply simmer it until it reduces and thickens. However, be warned that this method can cause the sauce to break or become overly rich.

Add grated cheese

If you’re looking to add an extra burst of flavor to your hollandaise sauce, try adding grated cheese such as Parmesan or Gruyère. This method is frequently used in dishes like Eggs Benedict with Hollandaise and Cheddar.

Add pureed vegetables

Vegetables can also be incorporated into the sauce to both thicken it and add a subtle vegetable flavor. Asparagus or spinach, when pureed, make excellent additions to hollandaise sauce for a healthier, vegetarian option.

Use gelatin

If you’re looking for an alternative thickening agent, gelatin can be dissolved in warm water and added to the hollandaise sauce. This method provides a firmer texture, but beware that it can significantly alter the taste and texture of the sauce.

Use xanthan gum or guar gum

Xanthan gum, a natural thickener commonly used in sauces, can be added to hollandaise sauce to give it a slightly gummy texture. Similarly, guar gum, often used in gluten-free baking, can be used for the same effect but with a slightly slimy texture.

Use carrageenan

Lastly, carrageenan, a natural thickener often used in vegan and vegetarian recipes, can also be added to hollandaise sauce. This method can impart a slightly seaweedy flavor to the sauce.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, there are many ways to thicken hollandaise sauce depending on your preferences and dietary restrictions.

The easiest way to thicken hollandaise sauce is by adding a few tablespoons of warm melted butter while whisking the ingredients together. If it’s still too thin, add more melted butter or try adding a small amount of cornstarch mixed with cold water and stirring until the sauce thickens.

Some methods, like adding more egg yolks, are simple and straightforward, while others, like using xanthan gum or carrageenan, require more specialized ingredients.

Whether you prefer a thicker or thinner hollandaise sauce, experimenting with these different methods can help you achieve the perfect consistency and flavor for your next brunch or dinner recipe.

Remember to always use caution when thickening hollandaise sauce, as over-thickening or overcooking can cause it to break or become too rich.

Hollandaise sauce

How To Thicken Hollandaise Sauce (15 Easy Methods)

When you know how to thicken Hollandaise sauce, it opens up a whole new world of delicious possibilities. That's why I'm sharing my 15 tried-and-true methods for thickening this delicious sauce. From using egg yolks to adding cornstarch, these simple steps will help you get the perfect consistency every time.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Sauce
Cuisine American, French
Servings 4 people
Calories 15 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Add more egg yolks
  • Use a roux
  • Add a cornstarch slurry
  • Add a beurre manié
  • Use arrowroot starch or potato starch
  • Add cream or crème fraîche
  • Add a reduction of white wine or vinegar
  • Use a reduction of hollandaise sauce itself
  • Add grated cheese
  • Add pureed vegetables
  • Use gelatin
  • Use xanthan gum or guar gum
  • Use carrageenan

Instructions
 

  • Begin by whisking the hollandaise sauce in a small saucepan over low heat.
  • In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch and water together to create a slurry.
  • Pour the slurry into the saucepan with the hollandaise sauce and whisk thoroughly.
  • Continue to whisk the sauce until the cornstarch slurry is fully incorporated and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
  • If the sauce is still too thin, repeat the process with another tablespoon of cornstarch and water mixture.
  • Be sure to keep an eye on the sauce and whisk constantly to prevent it from burning or curdling.
  • Once the sauce has reached your desired thickness, remove it from heat and serve immediately.

Notes

Here are some additional notes to keep in mind when thickening hollandaise sauce with cornstarch:
  • Make sure to whisk the hollandaise sauce continuously over low heat to prevent it from curdling or separating.
  • When making the cornstarch slurry, make sure to mix the cornstarch and water thoroughly to avoid lumps in the sauce.
  • Only add the cornstarch slurry to the saucepan after the hollandaise sauce has been heated up and whisked well. This helps prevent lumps from forming and ensures even distribution of the cornstarch.
  • If you need to thicken the sauce further, add additional cornstarch slurry in small amounts, as adding too much at once can make the sauce too thick and gummy.
  • If you are sensitive to the taste of cornstarch, try using arrowroot starch or potato starch instead as a gluten-free alternative.
  • Remember to taste the sauce after thickening and adjust the seasonings as needed.
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Jenny has always been passionate about cooking, and she uses her platform to share her joy of food with others. Her recipes are easy to follow, and she loves giving tips and tricks to help others create their own unique culinary creations.