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Best Ever Cranberry Sauce

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This homemade cranberry sauce features fresh cranberries, orange juice, and a touch of cinnamon for a classic holiday side dish that’s full of flavor and just the right amount of sweetness.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz (340 g) fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) water
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. Combine ingredients:
    • In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, water, and cinnamon. Stir well.
  2. Cook the sauce:
    • Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cranberries will burst, and the sauce will thicken as it cooks.
  3. Add orange zest:
    • If using, stir in the orange zest during the last minute of cooking for extra citrus flavor.
  4. Cool the sauce:
    • Remove the saucepan from heat and let the cranberry sauce cool to room temperature. It will thicken further as it cools.
  5. Serve or store:
    • Transfer the sauce to a serving dish and serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Notes

  • For a smoother sauce, blend it with an immersion blender or pass it through a fine mesh sieve after cooking.
  • Add-ins like a pinch of nutmeg, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries can add extra depth to the flavor.
  • This cranberry sauce freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.