Cranberry Sauce: 15-Minute Easy Homemade Delight

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Cranberry Sauce has always been a staple at my holiday table, elevating every meal with its sweet and tart flavor. This easy homemade cranberry sauce is made with fresh cranberries, orange juice, and a touch of cinnamon and is ready in just 15 minutes! Perfect for turkey, ham, or any festive meal, it’s a must-have for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Sauce

There are many reasons to love this Cranberry Sauce. First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, taking only 15 minutes of your time. Second, it’s made from fresh ingredients, giving you a burst of flavor that canned versions simply can’t match. Third, it’s versatile; you can use it in various dishes, from Cranberry Relish to Cranberry Chutney. This sauce is also customizable with options for sugar-free cranberry sauce and other flavor twists. Plus, it’s a healthy addition to your meal, being vegetarian-friendly and low in calories. Lastly, it’s a delightful way to impress your guests at the holiday table!

Ingredients for Cranberry Sauce

Gather these items:

12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 1 large orange)
1/2 cup water
1 stick cinnamon stick
1 strip orange peel (about 3 inches long)
1 pinch salt
Optional Add-Ins:
1 teaspoon orange zest (for extra citrus flavor)
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (added at end)
2 tablespoons Grand Marnier or orange liqueur (for adult version)
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (added at end)

How to Make Cranberry Sauce Step-by-Step

Step 1: Rinse cranberries under cold water and remove any soft, shriveled, or discolored ones. If using frozen cranberries, do not thaw—add them straight to the pot.
Step 2: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, orange juice, and water. Heat over medium, stirring until the sugar begins to dissolve, about 2 minutes.
Step 3: Add cranberries, cinnamon stick, orange peel, and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine.
Step 4: Increase heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a simmer. The cranberries will begin to pop — this usually takes 3–4 minutes.
Step 5: Reduce heat to medium and cook 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most cranberries have burst and the sauce thickens slightly. It will thicken more as it cools.
Step 6: Remove and discard the cinnamon stick and orange peel. These are for flavoring only.
Step 7: Let sauce cool in the saucepan for at least 30 minutes. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
Step 8: Transfer cooled cranberry sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to serve. It can be made up to 1 week ahead.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cranberry Sauce

Keep these in mind:

Make sure to taste the sauce and adjust sweetness if desired.
This sauce can be served warm, at room temperature, or chilled.
Experiment with different add-ins for varied flavor, such as orange zest or nuts.
For a twist, consider making a Cranberry Jam or Cranberry Spread using similar ingredients.

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Best Ways to Serve Cranberry Sauce

This Cranberry Sauce is versatile and can be paired with many dishes. It’s a classic accompaniment to turkey, giving a delicious contrast to the savory meat. It also works wonderfully alongside ham or even as a topping for cream cheese on crackers for an appetizer. Additionally, you can use it as a filling for pastries or as a base for a Cranberry Chutney to serve with cheese platters.

How to Store and Reheat Cranberry Sauce

This sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you have leftovers, simply transfer them to an airtight container. To reheat, place the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also enjoy it cold or at room temperature, making it a flexible option for your holiday meals.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Sauce

What’s the secret to perfect Cranberry Sauce?

The secret lies in balancing the sweetness and tartness. Use fresh cranberries and adjust the sugar according to your taste for the best flavor. Adding orange zest enhances the citrus notes, making the sauce more vibrant.

Can I make Cranberry Sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this Homemade Cranberry Sauce up to a week in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, and it will be ready to serve when you need it!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cranberry Sauce?

One common mistake is overcooking the sauce, which can make it too thick. Keep an eye on it while it simmers, and remember that it will continue to thicken as it cools.

Variations of Cranberry Sauce You Can Try

There are several fun variations to explore with your Cranberry Sauce. You can create a Fresh cranberry sauce recipe by incorporating different fruits like apples or pears. For a spicy twist, add ginger or jalapeño. You can also explore spiced cranberry sauce variations by including cloves or nutmeg. For a healthier option, consider sugar-free cranberry sauce options using natural sweeteners like honey or agave syrup.

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For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe collection. If you’re interested in desserts, you might also enjoy Salted Caramel Cookies or Orange Black Marble Bread. Don’t forget to explore our Caramel Apple Cheesecake for a delightful treat!

For more information on the health benefits of cranberries, you can visit Healthline.