This Best Ever Cranberry Sauce is the perfect blend of sweet and tart, making it an essential side dish for your holiday table. Made with fresh cranberries, orange juice, and a hint of cinnamon, this sauce is bursting with flavor and is sure to impress your guests. It’s incredibly easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, freeing you up to focus on other parts of your holiday meal. Whether you’re pairing it with roasted turkey or spreading it on leftover sandwiches, this cranberry sauce will be a favorite!

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients
2. Instructions
3. Cook Notes & Tips
4. Recipe Variations
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
6. Conclusion

Ingredients

• 12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

• In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, granulated sugar, brown sugar, orange juice, water, orange zest, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and a pinch of salt.
• Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Sauce

• Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
• Once it comes to a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
• Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to help break down the cranberries.

Step 3: Cool and Serve

• Remove the cranberry sauce from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
• Once cooled, transfer the cranberry sauce to a serving dish or airtight container. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving for the best flavor.

Cook Notes & Tips

• Consistency: If you prefer a smoother cranberry sauce, use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to mash the cranberries as they cook. For a chunkier sauce, leave some cranberries whole.
• Make Ahead: This cranberry sauce can be made up to a week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
• Fresh vs. Frozen Cranberries: Fresh or frozen cranberries both work well for this recipe. If using frozen cranberries, there’s no need to thaw them before cooking.

Recipe Variations

• Apple Cranberry Sauce: Add one peeled and finely chopped apple to the saucepan for extra sweetness and texture.
• Spiced Cranberry Sauce: Add a few whole cloves or a cinnamon stick to the saucepan for a spiced version. Remove before serving.
• Boozy Cranberry Sauce: Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of bourbon or brandy after removing the sauce from heat for a boozy twist.
• Nutty Cranberry Sauce: Add 1/4 cup of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for a nutty texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this cranberry sauce without sugar? A: Yes, you can use a sugar substitute like honey, maple syrup, or a low-calorie sweetener. Keep in mind that this will change the flavor slightly.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store leftover cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months—just thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

Q: Can I double this recipe? A: Absolutely! You can easily double or triple this recipe if you need a larger batch. Just be sure to use a large enough saucepan to prevent overflow.

Q: What can I do with leftover cranberry sauce? A: Leftover cranberry sauce is perfect for spreading on sandwiches, adding to yogurt or oatmeal, or even using as a topping for pancakes or waffles.

This Best Ever Cranberry Sauce is a must-have side dish for any holiday gathering. The combination of fresh cranberries, orange juice, and warm spices creates a sauce that’s bursting with flavor and the perfect balance of sweet and tart. Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a special dinner, this easy cranberry sauce is sure to impress. Make it ahead of time, serve it chilled, and enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors that elevate any holiday meal!