Name: Best Ever Cranberry Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred); 1/2 cup water; 1 teaspoon orange zest; 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s incredibly easy to make with just a few simple ingredients.

The vibrant flavors of cranberries and orange make this sauce the perfect accompaniment to holiday meals.

You can prepare it in advance, saving time during busy celebrations.

It’s versatile—serve it with turkey, ham, or even desserts!

Homemade cranberry sauce tastes so much better than the canned version.

Ingredients

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

12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)

1/2 cup water

1 teaspoon orange zest

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Directions

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

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.

Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes. The cranberries will burst, and the sauce will thicken.

Stir in the orange zest and cinnamon (if using), then remove the saucepan from the heat.

Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature before transferring it to a serving dish or an airtight container.

Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8 servings

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Spiced Cranberry Sauce: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves along with the cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor.

Berry Blend: Replace a portion of the cranberries with raspberries or blueberries for a unique twist.

Less Sweet: Reduce the sugar to 3/4 cup for a more tart sauce.

Alcohol Infusion: Substitute 1/4 cup of the water with red wine or port for an adult version.

Herbal Notes: Add a sprig of rosemary or thyme during cooking for a subtle herbal infusion.

Storage/Reheating

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

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

Reheating: Serve cold or gently warm the sauce on the stovetop over low heat if desired.

Related Recipes:

Cranberry Bars

FAQs

How far in advance can I make cranberry sauce?

I can make cranberry sauce up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, frozen cranberries work perfectly in this recipe. No need to thaw them before cooking.

What if my cranberry sauce is too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, I add a splash of water or orange juice to thin it out.

Can I use other sweeteners?

Absolutely! Swap the granulated sugar for honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute to suit your preferences.

What pairs well with cranberry sauce?

Cranberry sauce pairs wonderfully with turkey, ham, roasted vegetables, or even as a topping for baked brie or cheesecake.

Conclusion

This homemade cranberry sauce is a simple, flavorful addition to your holiday menu that’s sure to impress. It’s quick to prepare, customizable, and tastes better than anything store-bought. Whether I’m serving it alongside turkey or using it in leftovers, this sauce is a must-have for the season.

📖 Recipe: