Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce Recipe
When it comes to holiday meals, cranberry sauce is a must-have. It adds a vibrant splash of color and a burst of tartness that perfectly complements savory dishes. But here’s the best part: making your own cranberry sauce is incredibly easy! With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a fresh, flavorful version that will impress your family and friends.
In this recipe, I’ll guide you through each step, ensuring you achieve that perfect balance of sweetness and tang. So, let’s dive in and bring some homemade goodness to your holiday table!
What Makes This Recipe So Good?
- Fresh Ingredients: Made with real cranberries, which provide a vibrant flavor and natural tartness.
- Quick and Easy: Requires minimal time and effort, making it perfect for busy holiday cooking.
- Versatile Flavor: Can be easily customized with additional spices or sweeteners, such as orange zest, cinnamon, or honey, to suit personal tastes.
- Homemade Goodness: Avoids preservatives and artificial ingredients found in store-bought options.
- Perfect Pairing: Complements a variety of dishes, from turkey to ham, enhancing the overall meal experience.
- Make-Ahead Option: Can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge, allowing for stress-free holiday planning.
- Beautiful Presentation: The rich color and glossy texture make it a visually appealing addition to any table setting.
- Health Benefits: Cranberries are packed with antioxidants and nutrients, making this sauce a healthier choice.
Key Ingredients
- Fresh Cranberries: The star ingredient, providing tartness and flavor.
- Sugar: Balances the tartness of the cranberries; you can adjust the amount based on your taste.
- Water: Helps to cook the cranberries down and create a sauce-like consistency.
- Orange Zest or Juice (optional): Adds a hint of citrus flavor and brightness.
- Cinnamon or Nutmeg (optional): Provides warm, comforting spice notes.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Use Fresh Cranberries: Always opt for fresh cranberries for the best flavor and texture. Frozen cranberries can work in a pinch but may alter the sauce's consistency.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the sauce as it cooks. Depending on your preference and the tartness of the cranberries, you may want to add more or less sugar.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other ingredients, like a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth, or spices like ginger or allspice for a unique twist.
- Simmer Gently: Cook the cranberries over medium heat to avoid burning. This allows them to pop and release their juices without sticking to the pan.
- Cool Before Serving: Let the sauce cool completely before serving. It will thicken as it cools, achieving the perfect consistency.
- Make It Ahead: Cranberry sauce can be made several days in advance. It stores well in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen.
- Store Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It can also be frozen for longer storage.
- Serve with Variety: Think beyond the holidays! Use cranberry sauce as a topping for yogurt, a filling for desserts, or a condiment for sandwiches.
More Recipes You’ll Like…
When it comes to holiday meals, cranberry sauce is a must-have. It adds a vibrant splash of color and a burst of tartness that perfectly complements savory dishes. But here’s the best part: making your own cranberry sauce is incredibly easy! With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a fresh, flavorful version that will impress your family and friends.
- 12 oz Fresh Cranberries (3 cups)
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup Water
- 1 tbsp Orange Zest (optional)
- 1/2 tsp Cinnamon (optional)
- Prepare the Ingredients
Rinse the fresh cranberries under cold water and remove any stems or damaged berries.
- Combine Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water. If using, add the orange zest and cinnamon.
- Heat the Mixture
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to simmer.
- Cook the Cranberries
Allow the cranberries to simmer for about 10-15 minutes. You will hear them pop as they cook. Stir occasionally.
- Check Consistency
Once the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened, remove the saucepan from heat. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can mash the cranberries with a fork or blend briefly with an immersion blender.
- Cool the Sauce
Let the cranberry sauce cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Serve or Store
Transfer the sauce to a serving dish or an airtight container. If making ahead, store in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 100kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Sodium 5mg1%
- Potassium 90mg3%
- Total Carbohydrate 26g9%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 24g
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.