Easy Cranberry Sauce

Name: Easy Cranberry Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
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)

Isabella

🌟Life, Love, and Gastronomy 🍷

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Homemade Easy Cranberry Sauce is a delightful, tangy addition to any meal, especially during the holiday season. This easy recipe combines simple ingredients to create a sweet and tart sauce that’s leagues better than anything you’ll find in a can. Whether paired with turkey, ham, or even desserts, this cranberry sauce is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple and Quick: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can whip up a fresh cranberry sauce in no time.

Customizable: Add orange zest, spices, or other flavors to make it your own.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for busy holiday cooking schedules.

Healthier Option: You can adjust the sugar to suit your taste, unlike store-bought versions.

Versatile: Goes beyond the holiday table—use it as a topping for pancakes, yogurt, or even a cheese board.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 bag (12 oz) fresh or frozen cranberries

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 tsp orange zest (optional)

1 cup water

1 tbsp fresh orange juice (optional)

Directions

In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water.

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.

Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.

If desired, stir in the orange zest and juice for an extra layer of flavor.

Remove from heat and let the cranberry sauce cool to room temperature. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.

Transfer to a serving dish and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Enjoy this delicious cranberry sauce alongside your favorite dishes!

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes about 2 cups of cranberry sauce, serving 6-8 people.

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Cinnamon Spice: Add a cinnamon stick or a pinch of ground cinnamon during cooking for a warm, spiced flavor.

Apple Cranberry: Stir in diced apple for a fruitier sauce with extra texture.

Maple Sweetened: Replace the granulated sugar with maple syrup for a natural sweetness.

Alcohol-Infused: Add a splash of port wine or brandy to elevate the flavor.

Herbal Twist: Include a sprig of rosemary or thyme while simmering for a unique savory note.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing: Freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.

Reheating: Gently warm the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, if serving warm.

Related Recipes:

Cranberry Bread

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones. No need to thaw them; just add them straight to the saucepan.

How can I make the sauce less sweet?

Reduce the sugar to 3/4 cup or even 1/2 cup, depending on your preference. You can also use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Absolutely! Cranberry sauce tastes even better after a day or two in the refrigerator, as the flavors deepen over time.

How do I fix overly thick cranberry sauce?

If the sauce thickens too much, stir in a bit of water or orange juice until you achieve the desired consistency.

What else can I serve with cranberry sauce?

Aside from traditional holiday meals, try it on toast, with pancakes, as a yogurt topping, or paired with cheese and crackers.

Conclusion

This easy cranberry sauce recipe is a must-have for any festive occasion or everyday meal. With its perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, it’s a versatile condiment that will elevate your dishes. Plus, its simplicity and make-ahead potential make it a go-to recipe for busy cooks.

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