Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Prepare to delight your taste buds with a tangy and sweet easy homemade cranberry sauce that’s so simple, you’ll wonder why you haven’t made it before. This classic recipe is the perfect addition to your holiday table, bringing a splash of color and a burst of flavor to any meal.
Growing up, my family always had a can of cranberry sauce on the table every Thanksgiving. It wasn’t until I made this homemade version that I realized what I had been missing. The freshness and depth of flavor blew everyone away, so now it’s a staple at all our gatherings. My grandmother, initially wary of breaking away from tradition, now insists that I bring it every year!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a fantastic blend of simplicity and bold flavor. It requires only a handful of ingredients and takes less than 15 minutes to prepare. Unlike store-bought versions, this homemade sauce lets you control the sweetness and tanginess, making it uniquely yours. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and vegan, catering to a variety of dietary needs without any adjustments.
Ingredients Notes
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Here’s what you need:
- Cranberries: Fresh or frozen cranberries work equally well. If using frozen, no need to thaw them.
- Sugar: Regular granulated sugar is perfect, but feel free to experiment with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed is best, though bottled is a convenient alternative.
- Orange Zest: Adds a vibrant citrus note—don’t skip it!
Recipe Steps
Step 1
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberries, sugar, and orange juice. Stir until the sugar has dissolved.
Step 2
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow it to cook, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries start to pop.
Step 3
Add the orange zest and continue to simmer for another 5-10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
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Step 4
Remove the saucepan from heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
Step 5
Transfer your sauce to a serving dish or airtight container. For best flavor, chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.
Storage Options
Store any leftover cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and stir well before serving again.
Variations & Substitutions
For a zesty twist, add a pinch of ground cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract during cooking. Substitute honey or maple syrup for sugar for a different sweetness profile. For a chunkier texture, add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts once the sauce has cooled.
Serving Suggestions
This cranberry sauce is perfect not only for Thanksgiving turkey but also as a topping for grilled chicken, pork, or even as part of a cheese platter. It can serve as a fantastic spread for sandwiches and wraps, providing a sweet counterbalance to savory fillings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh? Fresh or frozen cranberries are recommended due to their moisture content, which contributes to the sauce’s consistency. If using dried cranberries, soak them in hot water for 30 minutes before cooking to rehydrate, though the texture will differ.
Why did my sauce not thicken? If your sauce seems thin, it likely needs to cook longer. Ensure it simmers until the natural pectin in the cranberries gels the sauce. It will also thicken more as it cools, so give it enough time before deciding if adjustments are needed.
Is this sauce only for holiday meals? Absolutely not! This homemade cranberry sauce pairs beautifully with multiple dishes year-round. Use it as a topping for pancakes, yogurt, or even ice cream for a refreshing, fruity twist on your usual treats.
Remember it later
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Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries rinsed and sorted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup orange juice freshly squeezed
- 0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
- 0.25 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp orange zest optional
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, sugar, and orange juice.
- Stir occasionally and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and let simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Stir in the cinnamon, nutmeg, and orange zest.
- Remove from heat and let cool. Sauce will thicken further as it cools.
- Serve the sauce warm or chilled.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
