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The Ultimate Guide to Homemade Cranberry Sauce (Easy & Delicious)

cranberry sauce

Introduction

Cranberry sauce is the unsung hero of the holiday dinner table, adding a vibrant pop of color and a tangy-sweet flavor that perfectly complements savory dishes like turkey, ham, and stuffing. While store-bought cranberry sauce is convenient, nothing compares to the freshness and flavor of homemade cranberry sauce. It’s simple to make, takes just 15 minutes, and allows you to customize it to your taste.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to create the perfect cranberry sauce—from the classic recipe to exciting variations like citrus-infused or spiced options. Say goodbye to canned cranberry sauce and hello to a fresh, flavorful addition to your holiday spread.

Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving, planning a festive feast, or simply looking for a new way to enjoy cranberries, this recipe is for you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Fresh and Flavorful: Homemade cranberry sauce uses fresh cranberries for a burst of natural flavor that’s impossible to replicate with canned options.
  2. Quick & Easy: The recipe takes less than 15 minutes to prepare, making it a stress-free addition to your holiday preparations.
  3. Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, add spices, or experiment with citrus flavors to suit your personal taste.
  4. Versatile: Cranberry sauce isn’t just for turkey! Use it as a topping for desserts, mix it into yogurt, or spread it on sandwiches.

Cooking Method ,
Cuisine
Courses
Difficulty Beginner
Time
Prep Time: 5 mins Cook Time: 10 mins Rest Time: 15 mins Total Time: 30 mins
Cooking Temp 90  °C
Servings 6
Estimated Cost $  7
Calories 110 kcal
Best Season Fall, Winter
Dietary Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free, Low-Calorie, Vegan
Description

This homemade cranberry sauce is the perfect blend of tart and sweet, made with fresh cranberries, sugar, and a splash of orange juice for a zesty twist. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, taking only 15 minutes from start to finish. Customize it with spices, nuts, or a hint of brandy to make it your own. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or as a versatile topping for desserts and breakfast dishes, this sauce is sure to become a holiday favorite.

Ingredients
  • 12 oz Fresh Cranberries (washed)
  • 1 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 1/2 cup Orange Juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1/2 cup Water
  • 1 tsp Orange Zest
  • 1/4 tsp Cinnamon (Optional)
  • 1 tbsp Brandy (Optional)
Instructions
  1. Prepare the Ingredients
    1. Rinse cranberries under cold water, discarding any damaged ones.
    2. Measure sugar, orange juice, and water, ensuring all ingredients are ready.
  2. Combine Ingredients
    1. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and water.
    2. Stir the mixture until the sugar begins to dissolve.
  3. Cook the Sauce
    1. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
    2. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
    3. Once cranberries begin to pop (after about 5 minutes), reduce heat to low.
  4. Add Optional Enhancements
    1. Stir in orange zest for added freshness.
    2. Add cinnamon or brandy for depth of flavor.
  5. Cool and Serve
    1. Remove the saucepan from heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature.
    2. As the sauce cools, it will thicken naturally.
    3. Serve in a decorative dish or store in an airtight container for later use.
Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Amount Per Serving
Calories 110kcal
% Daily Value *
Sodium 5mg1%
Potassium 20mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 28g10%
Dietary Fiber 1g4%
Sugars 24g
Vitamin C 14 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Variations & Add-Ins

Make your cranberry sauce uniquely yours with these ideas:

  1. Classic Cranberry Sauce
    • Stick to the basics: cranberries, sugar, water, and a touch of orange zest.
  2. Citrus-Infused Cranberry Sauce
    • Swap water for orange juice and add a generous amount of zest for a refreshing twist.
  3. Spiced Cranberry Sauce
    • Add a dash of cinnamon, cloves, or nutmeg for warm, festive flavors.
  4. Boozy Cranberry Sauce
    • Stir in a splash of brandy, port, or Grand Marnier for an adult-friendly version.
  5. Nutty Cranberry Sauce
    • Mix in toasted pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch.

Tips for Success

  • Don’t Overcook: Overcooking can cause the sauce to lose its bright color and fresh flavor.
  • Taste as You Go: Adjust the sweetness or spices based on your preferences.
  • Use Fresh Cranberries: While frozen cranberries can work in a pinch, fresh ones yield the best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Cranberry sauce is a versatile addition to your holiday table. Here are some creative ways to serve it:

  • Traditional Pairings: Serve alongside roasted turkey, ham, or pork loin.
  • Dessert Topping: Spoon over vanilla ice cream, cheesecake, or pound cake.
  • Breakfast Boost: Add a dollop to yogurt, oatmeal, or pancakes.
  • Sandwich Spread: Use it as a condiment in turkey or chicken sandwiches for a post-holiday treat.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
  • Freezing: Cranberry sauce freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave if serving warm.

Notes

  • For a thicker consistency, reduce the water by half.
  • Store leftover cranberry sauce in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.
cranberry sauce
cranberry sauce
Keywords: cranberry sauce, homemade cranberry sauce, holiday cranberry sauce, easy cranberry sauce recipe, Thanksgiving side dishes, Christmas cranberry sauce, fresh cranberry sauce, cranberry sauce with orange, cranberry sauce variations, gluten-free cranberry sauce
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