Description
This easy cranberry sauce recipe is a simple and quick way to create a classic holiday condiment. Made with fresh or frozen cranberries, sugar, and water, it simmers to a perfect balance of tart and sweet, with an optional touch of fresh orange zest and juice to add brightness. Ready in just 20 minutes, this sauce is perfect for serving alongside turkey, chicken, or as a flavorful addition to sandwiches and desserts.
Ingredients
Scale
Cranberry Sauce 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)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, granulated sugar, and water to prepare the base of the sauce.
- Bring to Boil: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, which will start softening the cranberries.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens to the desired consistency.
- Add Orange Flavor: Stir in the optional fresh orange zest and orange juice to add a citrusy note that enhances the sauce’s brightness.
- Cool the Sauce: Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the cranberry sauce to cool to room temperature. The sauce will thicken further as it cools down.
- Refrigerate Before Serving: Transfer the cooled sauce to a serving dish and refrigerate until ready to serve. This helps to set the texture and flavors.
Notes
- For a smoother sauce, you can mash the cranberries slightly while cooking or blend the sauce once cooled.
- Adjust the sugar amount based on your preferred sweetness—start with less if using very sweet cranberries.
- Orange zest and juice are optional but add a nice fresh, citrusy flavor.
- Store cranberry sauce refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian.
