Cranberry Sauce is a cherished holiday condiment that adds a burst of flavor to any festive meal. This easy cranberry sauce recipe is a quick and simple way to whip up a classic sauce using fresh or frozen cranberries, sugar, and water. With the option of adding orange zest and juice, this recipe brings a delightful citrus twist that complements turkey and other holiday dishes perfectly. Let’s dive into how to make cranberry sauce from scratch!
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Sauce
There are many reasons to love making your own cranberry sauce! First, it’s incredibly easy, taking just 20 minutes from start to finish. This cranberry sauce is a versatile condiment that pairs beautifully with turkey, making it a staple for Thanksgiving. Plus, you can adjust the sweetness, using less sugar or even trying a cranberry sauce without sugar for a healthier alternative. It’s also vegetarian-friendly and can be made in bulk for holiday gatherings. Finally, the vibrant color and fresh taste elevate any holiday plate, ensuring satisfaction all around!
Ingredients for Cranberry Sauce
Gather these items:
- 1 bag (12 oz) fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 tsp orange zest (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh orange juice (optional)
How to Make Cranberry Sauce Step-by-Step
- Step 1: In a medium saucepan, add the cranberries, granulated sugar, and water, ensuring the ingredients are evenly mixed before heating.
- Step 2: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, allowing the sugar to fully dissolve and the cranberries to begin softening.
- Step 3: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally while the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens to a jam-like consistency.
- Step 4: Stir in the optional orange zest and fresh orange juice to give the sauce a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Step 5: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the cranberry sauce to cool to room temperature. It will continue to thicken as it cools down.
- Step 6: Transfer the sauce to a serving dish or airtight container and refrigerate until ready to serve, ideally for at least a few hours to enhance flavors.
Pro Tips for the Best Cranberry Sauce
Keep these in mind:
- Use fresh or frozen cranberries based on availability.
- Allow the sauce to chill for best flavor; it tastes even better the next day.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- For a unique twist, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.
Best Ways to Serve Cranberry Sauce
This cranberry sauce can be served alongside your turkey for Thanksgiving, but it’s also fantastic as a spread on sandwiches or as a topping for desserts like cheesecake or vanilla ice cream. For a festive twist, try serving it with a cranberry spread on crackers or as part of a charcuterie board!
How to Store and Reheat Cranberry Sauce
To store leftovers, keep the cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh for up to two weeks. If you plan to serve it later, allow it to cool completely before refrigerating. You can also make this sauce ahead of time for meal prep, making your holiday cooking even easier!
Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Sauce
What’s the secret to perfect Cranberry Sauce?
The secret to perfect cranberry sauce lies in the balance of sweetness and tartness. Ensure you adjust the sugar based on your taste and consider adding flavor enhancers like orange zest or spices.
Can I make Cranberry Sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make cranberry sauce a day or two in advance. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier when served!
How do I avoid common mistakes with Cranberry Sauce?
To avoid common mistakes, ensure you do not overcook the cranberries, as they can become too mushy. Also, be mindful of the sugar content, especially if you prefer a less sweet sauce.
Variations of Cranberry Sauce You Can Try
There are endless variations of cranberry sauce that you can experiment with! For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or ginger to your sauce. You can also make a cranberry chutney by adding chopped apples and spices for a hearty condiment. If you’re looking for healthy cranberry sauce alternatives, try substituting sugar with honey or maple syrup for a more natural sweetness. Consider a cranberry compote with mixed berries for a different flavor profile, or make a cranberry relish for a fresh, zesty option!
For more delicious recipes, check out Cranberry Orange Pancakes or Cranberry Butter. If you’re interested in learning about the health benefits of cranberries, visit Healthline for more information.
Additionally, you can find more festive recipes like Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls and Holiday Yogurt Parfaits with Cranberry.
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Cranberry Sauce: 5 Simple Steps for a Perfect Holiday Treat
- Total Time: 20 min
- Yield: 2 cups 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Cranberry Sauce recipe is a quick and simple way to make a classic holiday condiment using fresh or frozen cranberries, sugar, and water.
Ingredients
- 1 bag (12 oz) fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 tsp orange zest (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh orange juice (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, add the cranberries, granulated sugar, and water, ensuring the ingredients are evenly mixed before heating.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, allowing the sugar to fully dissolve and the cranberries to begin softening.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally while the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens to a jam-like consistency.
- Stir in the optional orange zest and fresh orange juice to give the sauce a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the cranberry sauce to cool to room temperature. It will continue to thicken as it cools down.
- Transfer the sauce to a serving dish or airtight container and refrigerate until ready to serve, ideally for at least a few hours to enhance flavors.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen cranberries based on availability.
- Allow the sauce to chill for best flavor.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 15 min
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Cranberry Sauce, Holiday Recipe, Condiment
