Cranberry Sauce
There’s something undeniably festive about a vibrant bowl of cranberry sauce gracing the dinner table. Whether you’re preparing for a Thanksgiving feast, a cozy winter dinner, or simply craving that burst of tartness, homemade cranberry sauce is a must. It’s not just about the flavor—making it from scratch is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with the warm, comforting aromas of cinnamon and citrus. Let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe that will elevate your meals and impress your guests.
Why This Recipe is a Keeper
This cranberry sauce recipe is a keeper because it combines simplicity with rich flavors. Using fresh or frozen cranberries, orange juice, and warm spices, this sauce is a perfect blend of sweet and tart. It’s incredibly versatile too; you can serve it alongside turkey, use it as a topping for desserts, or even mix it into yogurt for a refreshing breakfast. Not to mention, it comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy holiday preparations.
What You’ll Gather
- 1 cup granulated sugar – This will sweeten the tart cranberries perfectly.
- 1 cup water – Essential for boiling the cranberries.
- 1 cup orange juice – Adds brightness and depth to the flavor.
- 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries – The star ingredient that gives the sauce its name.
- 1 teaspoon orange zest – Enhances the citrus notes and adds aromatic oils.
- 1 cinnamon stick – Infuses the sauce with warm, spicy notes.
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves – Adds a hint of earthiness and complexity.
What’s in the Gear List
- Medium saucepan – For cooking the cranberries and combining the ingredients.
- Wooden spoon – Ideal for stirring and mashing the cranberries.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
- Grater or zester – For freshly zesting the orange.
- Storage container – To keep your cranberry sauce fresh in the fridge.
From Start to Finish: Cranberry Sauce
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by rinsing your cranberries under cold water. If you’re using fresh cranberries, remove any stems or blemished berries. Measure out your sugar, water, orange juice, and zest.
Step 2: Combine Liquid Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of orange juice, and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
Step 3: Add Cranberries and Spices
Once the sugar is dissolved, add the 12 ounces of cranberries, 1 teaspoon of orange zest, the cinnamon stick, and ½ teaspoon of ground cloves. Stir to combine all ingredients.
Step 4: Cook the Sauce
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes. You’ll notice the cranberries popping and releasing their natural juices, creating a lovely sauce.
Step 5: Mash and Cool
After simmering, use a wooden spoon to gently mash some of the cranberries against the side of the pot to thicken the sauce to your desired consistency. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 6: Serve or Store
Transfer the cranberry sauce to a serving bowl or a storage container. If you’re serving it warm, it’s ready to go! If you prefer it chilled, let it cool completely before refrigerating.
Better-for-You Options
- Reduce Sugar: You can reduce the amount of sugar to ¾ cup or substitute with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup for a healthier alternative.
- Add Fresh Fruit: Incorporate diced apples or pears for added texture and sweetness.
- Spice Variations: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique flavor twist.
- Use Coconut Sugar: For a lower glycemic index option, try using coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar.
Chef’s Rationale
The beauty of cranberry sauce lies in its balance of flavors. The tartness of the cranberries is beautifully complemented by the sweetness of the sugar and the acidity of the orange juice. The warm spices like cinnamon and cloves create a cozy atmosphere, making it perfect for holiday gatherings. Additionally, making this sauce from scratch allows you to control the sweetness and texture, ensuring it’s just right for your taste.
How to Store & Reheat
To store your cranberry sauce, let it cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you want to make it ahead of time, cranberry sauce freezes beautifully. Just pour it into a freezer-safe container and it will keep for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Your Top Questions
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen?
While dried cranberries won’t provide the same tart flavor or texture, you can use them in a pinch. Soak them in warm water or juice for about 30 minutes before adding them to the recipe.
How can I make my cranberry sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it a bit longer to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) while it’s simmering to help thicken it up.
Can I make cranberry sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, cranberry sauce tastes even better after it sits for a day, as the flavors meld together. Prepare it up to two weeks in advance and store it in the fridge.
What else can I use cranberry sauce for?
Your homemade cranberry sauce can be used in various ways! Try it as a topping for pancakes, a spread on sandwiches, or even mixed into desserts like cheesecake or ice cream for a refreshing change.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Roasted Broccoli Lemon Parmesan Orzo – A delightful side dish that pairs perfectly with any holiday meal.
- Creamy Spinach Artichoke Tortellini Bake – A comforting pasta dish that’s sure to please a crowd.
Save & Share
If you love this cranberry sauce recipe, don’t forget to save it for your next gathering and share it with friends! Homemade cranberry sauce is a dish that brings people together, and passing on this recipe means you’re sharing a little bit of joy with others.
The vibrant color and tangy flavor of cranberry sauce not only enhance your holiday table but also create lasting memories. So gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy the delightful experience of making and sharing your homemade cranberry sauce.
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Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by rinsing your cranberries under cold water. If you’re using fresh cranberries, remove any stems or blemished berries. Measure out your sugar, water, orange juice, and zest.
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of orange juice, and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Once the sugar is dissolved, add the 12 ounces of cranberries, 1 teaspoon of orange zest, the cinnamon stick, and ½ teaspoon of ground cloves. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes. You’ll notice the cranberries popping and releasing their natural juices, creating a lovely sauce.
- After simmering, use a wooden spoon to gently mash some of the cranberries against the side of the pot to thicken the sauce to your desired consistency. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Transfer the cranberry sauce to a serving bowl or a storage container. If you're serving it warm, it's ready to go! If you prefer it chilled, let it cool completely before refrigerating.
Notes
- Reduce sugar to make a healthier version.
- Add fresh fruits like apples for texture.
- Experiment with different spices for unique flavors.
