Cranberry Sauce

Cranberry Sauce is a must-have for any holiday table, offering a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors that complement savory dishes like roast turkey or ham. This easy, homemade cranberry sauce is made with just a handful of ingredients and takes only about 15 minutes to prepare. Fresh or frozen cranberries work wonderfully, and the addition of citrus and warm spices makes it extra special. Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive meal, this cranberry sauce will add a burst of flavor to every bite.

Table of Contents

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cooking Notes
• Variations
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Conclusion

Ingredients

• 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup orange juice (preferably freshly squeezed)
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, orange juice, orange zest, cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt.
2. Stir to combine and place the saucepan over medium heat.

Step 2: Cook the Cranberries

1. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
2. Continue to cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the cranberries begin to pop and the sauce starts to thicken.
3. Stir occasionally, using the back of a spoon to gently mash some of the cranberries if you prefer a smoother texture.

Step 3: Let the Sauce Cool

1. Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency, remove it from the heat. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
2. Let the cranberry sauce cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a serving dish or an airtight container if making ahead.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving for the best flavor.

Cooking Notes

• Consistency: If you prefer a thicker cranberry sauce, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce the liquid. For a thinner sauce, you can add a little more water or orange juice.
• Sweetness: If you like a sweeter sauce, you can add an extra 1/4 cup of sugar. Taste and adjust as needed.
• Make-Ahead: Cranberry sauce can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it perfect for holiday prep.

Variations

Spiced Cranberry Sauce

• Add 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves or nutmeg for a spiced version that adds depth and warmth to the sauce.

Apple Cranberry Sauce

• Add 1 peeled and diced apple to the saucepan for extra texture and a subtle apple flavor. Granny Smith apples work well for added tartness.

Cranberry Sauce with Port

• Substitute 1/4 cup of the water with port wine for a rich, slightly boozy cranberry sauce that pairs beautifully with roasted meats.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Cranberry Sauce Ahead of Time?

Yes! This cranberry sauce can be made up to a week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

Can I Use Frozen Cranberries?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones. There’s no need to thaw them; just add them straight to the saucepan.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store leftover cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Cranberry Sauce is a simple yet essential part of any holiday feast, adding a vibrant burst of color and flavor to your meal. With its blend of sweet, tart, and citrusy notes, this homemade cranberry sauce is far superior to store-bought versions. It’s easy to make, can be prepared ahead of time, and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes.

Happy cooking, and enjoy the sweet-tart goodness of this festive Cranberry Sauce!