Place the prepared strawberries in a saucepan along with the sugar and lemon juice. Stir to combine. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.

Once simmering, use a handheld potato masher to crush and break up some of the berries and to release more of the natural juices.

Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring, until all of the sugar is dissolved.

Next prepare the slurry thickening mixture by adding the water to a measuring cup then add the cornstarch and stir to combine. Pour immediately into the strawberry topping mixture and stir to combine. Simmer for 1 more minute and remove from the heat.