Best Ever Cranberry Sauce Recipe
Introduction
This Best Ever Cranberry Sauce is a simple and delicious addition to your holiday table or any meal that needs a touch of tart sweetness. Made with fresh cranberries and a hint of citrus and spice, it’s easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water (or orange juice for added flavor)
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional, for extra citrus flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Rinse the fresh cranberries under cold water and remove any stems or damaged berries.
- Step 2: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water (or orange juice). Add the orange zest, ground cinnamon, and salt if using.
- Step 3: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
- Step 4: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 10 to 15 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Step 5: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the sauce to cool to room temperature. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Step 6: Transfer the cranberry sauce to a serving dish or airtight container. Serve immediately or refrigerate.
Tips & Variations
- For extra depth, substitute water with fresh orange juice to enhance the citrus flavor.
- Add a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg for a spicier, warm twist.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, pulse the sauce briefly in a blender after cooking.
- Use less sugar if you like your sauce tarter, adjusting to taste.
Storage
Store the cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It can be served cold or at room temperature. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave if desired, stirring occasionally to maintain texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make cranberry sauce ahead of time?
Yes, cranberry sauce actually tastes better after the flavors meld. You can prepare it up to a week in advance and keep it refrigerated until serving.
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely, frozen cranberries work well. There’s no need to thaw them before cooking; just add them directly to the saucepan and adjust the cooking time slightly.
PrintBest Ever Cranberry Sauce Recipe
This Best Ever Cranberry Sauce recipe is a simple, classic holiday staple featuring fresh cranberries cooked with sugar and water or orange juice for a bright, tart flavor. Enhanced with optional orange zest and cinnamon for warmth, this sauce is easy to prepare on the stovetop and perfect for complementing turkey and other festive dishes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 2 cups 1x
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Primary Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water (or orange juice for added flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Flavorings
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional, for extra citrus flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse the fresh cranberries under cold water and remove any stems or damaged berries to ensure a clean and fresh final sauce.
- Cook the Cranberry Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed cranberries, sugar, and water or orange juice. Add the optional orange zest, ground cinnamon, and salt for additional layers of flavor. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar and prevent sticking.
- Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes. During this time, the cranberries will burst open and release their natural juices, thickening the sauce. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the cranberry sauce to cool to room temperature. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools. Transfer it to a serving dish or airtight container and serve immediately or refrigerate for up to one week.
Notes
- For a more citrusy flavor, use fresh orange juice instead of water.
- The sauce thickens further as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a bit runny when hot.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- This recipe can be made a day ahead to let flavors develop more fully.
- Adjust sugar amount to your taste if you prefer a sweeter or more tart sauce.
Keywords: cranberry sauce, holiday sauce, Thanksgiving sauce, stovetop cranberry sauce, homemade cranberry sauce
