Why You’ll Love Cranberry Sauce Recipe

  • It comes together quickly and easily—just three main ingredients

  • Can be made ahead of time and chills to the perfect consistency

  • Offers a bright, tart-sweet accompaniment that pairs beautifully with roasted meats and holiday meals

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
• 1 cup (200 g) sugar
• 1 cup (250 ml) water
• 4 cups fresh or frozen cranberries (one 12-oz package)
• Optional: pecans, orange zest, raisins, currants, blueberries, cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice

Directions

  1. Rinse the cranberries in a colander, discarding any damaged ones.

  2. In a medium saucepan, bring the sugar and water to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.

  3. Add the cranberries to the pot and return to a boil.

  4. Lower the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until most of the berries have burst.

  5. If desired, stir in any optional mix-ins like orange zest, nuts, or dried fruit.

  6. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.

  7. Transfer to a bowl and refrigerate until chilled. The sauce will thicken as it cools.

  8. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

  • Yield: Approximately 2¼ cups

  • Serves: About 9 servings

  • Prep time: 5 minutes

  • Cook time: 15 minutes

  • Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

  • Substitute half the water with orange juice for a citrus boost

  • Add chopped apples, raisins, or blueberries for extra texture

  • Mix in pecans or walnuts for a nutty crunch

  • Use warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice for a festive twist

  • Reduce the sugar slightly for a more tart version

Storage/Reheating

  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks

  • To freeze: place in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 6 months

  • Best served chilled or at room temperature; reheating is optional if you prefer it warm

FAQs

What kind of cranberries should I use?

You can use either fresh or frozen cranberries. Be sure to discard any soft or damaged ones before cooking.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, this sauce can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the fridge until ready to serve.

Can I adjust the sweetness?

Yes. If you prefer a more tart cranberry sauce, reduce the sugar slightly and adjust the water as needed to maintain consistency.

What if I don’t have water?

You can replace half or all of the water with orange juice to add extra flavor and brightness.

How long does it take to thicken?

The sauce begins to thicken as it cools. Once chilled, it sets to a perfect spreadable consistency.

Can I add mix-ins like nuts or fruits?

Absolutely. Pecans, raisins, currants, chopped apples, or blueberries are great additions for texture and flavor.

Is this suitable for vegetarians/vegans?

Yes, this cranberry sauce is naturally vegetarian and vegan as long as you avoid any non-vegan mix-ins.

Can I freeze leftover cranberry sauce?

Yes. It freezes well for up to 6 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

What dish pairs best with this cranberry sauce?

It’s perfect with roasted turkey, chicken, ham, or pork. The tartness balances rich, savory flavors beautifully.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double or triple the batch. Just be sure to use a larger pot and adjust cooking time slightly.

Conclusion

This cranberry sauce recipe is fast, reliable, and the perfect touch of brightness on your holiday or everyday table. With just three core ingredients and endless ways to customize, it’s a must-have for festive meals. Make it ahead, tweak it to your taste, and enjoy how it elevates any dish with its bold flavor and beautiful color.

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Cranberry Sauce

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  • Author: Mia
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 2 ½ cups
  • Diet: Vegan
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Description

A simple and classic homemade cranberry sauce made with fresh cranberries, sugar, and orange zest. A perfect sweet-tart side for Thanksgiving and holiday meals.

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • Optional: zest of 1 orange or a cinnamon stick for added flavor

Instructions

  1. Rinse the cranberries under cool water, discarding any damaged or mushy ones.
  2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the water and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Add the cranberries to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
  4. Optional: Stir in orange zest or a cinnamon stick during cooking for extra flavor.
  5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. Sauce will thicken further as it cools.
  6. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Can be made several days in advance.

Notes

  • The sauce thickens as it cools, so don’t overcook.
  • Add orange juice in place of water for a citrusy twist.
  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 10 days.
  • This recipe can easily be doubled for larger gatherings.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 cup
  • Calories: 110
  • Sugar: 24g
  • Sodium: 0mg
  • Fat: 0g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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