There is something truly magical about a classic Cranberry Sauce Recipe that brings the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness to your table. This vibrant, ruby-hued sauce is more than just a holiday staple; it’s a versatile condiment that can brighten up any meal with its fresh, tangy flavor and just the right hint of cinnamon warmth. Whether you’re serving it alongside your turkey or using it to add a punch to sandwiches and desserts, this Cranberry Sauce Recipe promises simplicity and deliciousness in every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is a breeze and each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect harmony of flavor, texture, and color in your cranberry sauce. These simple staples come together to deliver a sauce that’s bursting with freshness, sweetness, and a cozy hint of spice.
- 12 ounces cranberries (fresh or frozen, about 3 cups): The star ingredient offering that signature tartness and a vibrant, jewel-like color.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Balances the cranberries’ natural tartness with just the right amount of sweetness.
- 1 cup water (or orange juice): Adds moisture for cooking and, when replaced by orange juice, layers in a subtle citrus brightness.
- 1 cinnamon stick: Infuses the sauce with a warm, comforting spice that complements the fruit perfectly.
How to Make Cranberry Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Start by placing the cranberries, sugar, water (or orange juice if you prefer a citrus twist), and the cinnamon stick into a medium saucepan. This simple mix-up is the foundation of your sauce, where the ingredients will meld into something truly special.
Step 2: Cook to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat—watch as the cranberries burst, releasing their natural pectin and brilliant color. Then, lower the heat to a gentle simmer and let everything bubble away uncovered for about 10 to 12 minutes. This step thickens the sauce while deepening all those vibrant flavors.
Step 3: Finish and Chill
Once your sauce has thickened to your liking, remove the cinnamon stick and discard it. Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature before refrigerating it until it’s chilled. This chilling step helps the flavors settle beautifully, and you’re ready to enjoy it either cold or at room temperature.
How to Serve Cranberry Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your cranberry sauce presentation by adding a few bright orange zest strips or fresh rosemary sprigs on top. These add visual interest and a slight aromatic lift, making your homemade sauce even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This cranberry sauce is a stellar companion to roasted turkey, but don’t stop there. It pairs wonderfully with pork chops, baked brie, or even alongside creamy mashed potatoes. Its tangy sweetness cuts through rich dishes, creating a well-rounded plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, dollop the cranberry sauce onto a cheese board beside sharp cheddar or tangy goat cheese. You could even use it as a vibrant spread on sandwiches or as a topping for yogurt and oatmeal breakfasts—bringing a burst of flavor anytime.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your delicious cranberry sauce, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to two weeks, making it great for those days when you want that special zing without the work.
Freezing
If you want to keep your cranberry sauce even longer, freezing is a smart choice. Transfer the cooled sauce into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. It can last for up to three months in the freezer—just thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to use it.
Reheating
When it’s time to bring your cranberry sauce back to life, simply warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat or microwave it in short bursts until warmed through. If it’s too thick after reheating, stir in a splash of water or orange juice to loosen it up.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries for this Cranberry Sauce Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones and make this recipe convenient year-round. Just no need to thaw them beforehand—add them straight to the saucepan.
What’s the best way to adjust the sweetness?
You can easily tweak the sugar to your liking. If you prefer a more tart sauce, reduce the sugar slightly; for a sweeter version, add a bit more during cooking.
Can I add other spices or flavors?
Yes! While the cinnamon stick adds classic warmth, feel free to experiment with a clove, a star anise, or even a splash of vanilla extract to personalize your Cranberry Sauce Recipe.
How long does homemade cranberry sauce last?
When refrigerated properly, it maintains its deliciousness for about two weeks. Always keep it in a sealed container to preserve freshness and flavor.
Is this cranberry sauce suitable for vegans?
Definitely! This Cranberry Sauce Recipe uses only plant-based ingredients, making it a perfect vegan-friendly addition to your meals.
Final Thoughts
There’s a comforting joy in making your Cranberry Sauce Recipe from scratch—it’s simple, soulful, and infinitely better than store-bought versions. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try soon and discover how a few humble ingredients can transform your meals with their bright, festive flair. Trust me, once you taste this, it’ll become a beloved staple that you’ll want to make again and again.
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Cranberry Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Cranberry Sauce recipe is a simple and delicious homemade accompaniment perfect for holiday meals or any time you want a tangy, sweet side dish. Made with fresh or frozen cranberries, sugar, water, and a hint of cinnamon, it cooks down to a luscious sauce that complements turkey, chicken, and many other dishes.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 ounces cranberries (fresh or frozen, about 3 cups)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water (or orange juice)
- 1 cinnamon stick
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add the cranberries, granulated sugar, water (or orange juice), and the cinnamon stick to start building the sauce base.
- Bring to Boil: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar and evenly heat the cranberries.
- Simmer Sauce: Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes. During this time, the cranberries will burst and the sauce will thicken to a jam-like consistency.
- Remove Cinnamon Stick: After simmering, remove the cinnamon stick and discard it to leave just the flavorful sauce behind.
- Cool and Refrigerate: Allow the cranberry sauce to cool to room temperature, then transfer to the refrigerator to chill. The sauce can be served either chilled or at room temperature according to your preference.
Notes
- You can substitute water with orange juice for a citrusy twist that adds extra flavor complexity.
- Store leftover cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- For a smoother texture, you can mash the sauce slightly with a fork or potato masher before cooling.
- This recipe works equally well with either fresh or frozen cranberries, no need to thaw frozen cranberries before cooking.
