Ever Cranberry Sauce is not just another condiment; it’s the star of your holiday table. This delightful and tangy cranberry sauce elevates any meal with its rich flavor and vibrant color. The combination of fresh cranberries, orange zest, and a hint of cinnamon gives it a unique twist that complements both sweet and savory dishes. If you’re looking for a fresh cranberry sauce recipe that’s easy to make and perfect for Thanksgiving, you’ve come to the right place!
Why You’ll Love This Ever Cranberry Sauce
This recipe for Ever Cranberry Sauce is packed with benefits that will make you want to whip it up for every festive occasion:
- Simple and quick preparation time—ready in just 25 minutes!
- Uses fresh ingredients, making it a healthier choice.
- Versatile—great as a side, topping, or even in desserts like cranberry chutney.
- Perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.
- Can easily be made vegan by substituting sugar with an alternative sweetener.
- Pairs well with various holiday dishes, enhancing their flavor.
This sauce is a must-have in your traditional cranberry sauce preparation for holiday meals like Thanksgiving and Christmas. Cranberry pancakes are a delightful way to use up any leftovers!
Ingredients for Ever Cranberry Sauce
Gather these items:
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 orange, zested and juiced
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
How to Make Ever Cranberry Sauce Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Rinse the cranberries under cold water and remove any stems or damaged berries.
- Step 2: In a medium saucepan, combine the water, sugar, and orange juice. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Step 3: Add the cranberries and orange zest to the saucepan. Return to a boil.
- Step 4: Reduce heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Step 5: Stir in the cinnamon and remove from heat. Let cool before serving.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Ever Cranberry Sauce
Keep these in mind:
- Always use fresh cranberries for the best flavor.
- For an extra zing, add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to your sauce.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the sauce after it cools.
- This recipe is a stovetop method, perfect for quick preparation.
Best Ways to Serve Ever Cranberry Sauce
Here are a few ideas:
- Serve it chilled as a side to turkey or ham dishes.
- Use it as a topping for cream cheese on crackers for a delightful appetizer.
- Incorporate it into desserts, like cranberry relish served over cheesecake.
How to Store and Reheat Ever Cranberry Sauce
After preparing, let the sauce cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it an excellent option for meal prep. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ever Cranberry Sauce
What’s the secret to perfect Ever Cranberry Sauce?
The key to perfect Ever Cranberry Sauce lies in using fresh cranberries and balancing the sweetness with orange zest. This gives the sauce a refreshing flavor that enhances any dish it accompanies.
Can I make Ever Cranberry Sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make this cranberry sauce a few days in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator, and the flavors will continue to meld and develop, making it even tastier!
How do I avoid common mistakes with Ever Cranberry Sauce?
To avoid common mistakes, ensure you don’t overcook the cranberries, as they can become mushy. Additionally, taste and adjust the sweetness before serving, as some may prefer a sweeter sauce.
Variations of Ever Cranberry Sauce You Can Try
Looking to mix it up? Here are a few variations:
- For a spiced version, try adding allspice or ginger.
- Make a cranberry chutney by adding diced apples or raisins.
- For a tropical twist, incorporate pineapple chunks.
- Vegan options are easy to create by substituting sugar with agave or maple syrup.
These variations showcase the versatility of this homemade cranberry sauce, making it suitable for any dietary preference. You might also enjoy cranberry butter as a delicious spread!
Best Ever Cranberry Sauce for Your Holiday Table
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful and tangy cranberry sauce that elevates any holiday meal with its rich flavor and vibrant color.
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 orange, zested and juiced
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Rinse the cranberries under cold water and remove any stems or damaged berries.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the water, sugar, and orange juice. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Add the cranberries and orange zest to the saucepan. Return to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Stir in the cinnamon and remove from heat. Let cool before serving.
Notes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 110 calories
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Ever Cranberry Sauce
