Hollandaise Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hollandaise Sauce is a classic French sauce known for its rich, buttery flavor and velvety texture. Perfect for elevating eggs Benedict, steamed vegetables, or fish, this sauce comes together quickly with a few simple ingredients and adds a luxurious touch to any meal.

ingredients

this Recipe

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

egg yolksunsalted buttermelted lemon juicewarm waterpinch of cayenne pepper (optional)salt

directions

Fill the bottom of a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan with a few inches of simmering water.

In the top part of the double boiler, whisk together egg yolks, lemon juice, and warm water until slightly thickened.

Place over the simmering water and continue whisking constantly so the eggs gently cook without scrambling.

Slowly drizzle in the melted butter, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth and creamy.

Remove from heat and season with salt and a pinch of cayenne pepper if desired.

Serve immediately, or keep warm over very low heat for up to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 1 cup of sauce.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

Add a touch of Dijon mustard for a slight tang.
Use white wine vinegar in place of lemon juice for a sharper flavor.
Infuse the butter with herbs like tarragon for a twist.
Stir in a dash of hot sauce for added heat.
Make a blender version for a quicker method.

storage/reheating

Hollandaise Sauce is best served fresh.
If needed, store in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
Reheat gently in a double boiler, whisking constantly—do not microwave or overheat, or it may separate.

FAQs

Can I make Hollandaise Sauce in advance?
Yes, but it’s best made fresh. If prepared ahead, reheat gently to maintain the texture.

Why did my sauce separate?
This can happen if the eggs are overcooked or the butter is added too quickly. Whisk constantly and go slow.

Can I fix broken Hollandaise Sauce?
Yes, whisk in a teaspoon of warm water or another egg yolk to help it come back together.

What dishes can I use this on?
Eggs Benedict, asparagus, poached fish, roasted potatoes, and more.

Can I use salted butter?
Yes, just adjust additional salt to taste.

Can I use a blender instead of a double boiler?
Yes, blend egg yolks and lemon juice, then slowly add hot melted butter while blending until thick.

Is Hollandaise Sauce gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free.

Is this sauce keto-friendly?
Yes, it fits well into low-carb and keto diets.

Conclusion

Hollandaise Sauce is a timeless addition to your culinary repertoire, offering elegant flavor and creamy richness that can transform simple dishes into gourmet meals. With just a few ingredients and careful technique, you’ll have a sauce that impresses every time.

Print