Description
This Homemade Cranberry Sauce is a sweet and tangy holiday staple bursting with fresh cranberry flavor. Made with simple ingredients like fresh cranberries, sugar, and orange zest, this easy stovetop recipe comes together in minutes and offers a far superior taste and texture compared to canned versions. Perfect as a side dish or condiment for Thanksgiving and festive meals.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- 2 tbsp orange juice
- ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Water and Sugar: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Stir occasionally until the sugar is completely dissolved to create a clear syrup base.
- Add Cranberries and Flavorings: Add 12 ounces of fresh or frozen cranberries, 1 tablespoon of orange zest, 2 tablespoons of orange juice, and ½ teaspoon of cinnamon (if using) to the saucepan. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cook the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cook until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Cool the Cranberry Sauce: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the sauce to cool completely at room temperature. This helps the sauce set and thicken further.
- Refrigerate and Serve: Transfer the cooled cranberry sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to serve. The sauce can be made up to 5 days in advance for convenience.
Notes
- The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools down, so do not overcook.
- For extra texture and flavor, stir in chopped pecans just before serving.
- This sauce can be prepared up to 5 days ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
