Forget buying this from the store. All I can say about this sauce is: yum!

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.

2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries release their juices and the mixture begins to simmer, about 5-7 minutes.

3. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to form a slurry.

4. Add the cornstarch slurry to the strawberry mixture, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.

5. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

6. Allow the sauce to cool slightly before serving. It will continue to thicken as it cools.

For a spicier version, add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of black pepper to the sauce. If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree the sauce to your desired consistency. You can also substitute some of the strawberries with other berries like raspberries or blueberries for a mixed berry sauce. For a sugar-free version, try using a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.