Homemade Cranberry Sauce Recipe
Introduction
Homemade cranberry sauce is a simple and delicious way to add a fresh, tangy touch to your holiday meals. With just a few ingredients, you can create a vibrant sauce that perfectly complements turkey and other festive dishes.
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Step 1: Combine the fresh cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and water in a medium saucepan.
- Step 2: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, cooking for 10-15 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Step 3: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the cranberry sauce cool before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For added flavor, stir in a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract while simmering.
- Use fresh orange zest for a brighter citrus note.
- Adjust sugar to taste if you prefer a tarter or sweeter sauce.
Storage
Store leftover cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It can also be frozen in a sealed container for up to three months. Reheat gently on the stove or enjoy chilled.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cranberries work well for this recipe. There’s no need to thaw them before cooking; just add them directly to the saucepan and follow the same instructions.
How thick should the cranberry sauce be?
The sauce should be slightly thickened but still spoonable, with most cranberries burst to release their natural pectin. It will also thicken more as it cools.
PrintHomemade Cranberry Sauce Recipe
This homemade cranberry sauce is a simple, fresh, and tangy accompaniment perfect for holiday meals or everyday dinners. Made with fresh cranberries, sugar, and orange juice, it offers a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors with a smooth, thickened texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 1 1/2 cups 1x
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add 12 ounces of fresh cranberries, 1 cup of sugar, 1/2 cup of orange juice, and 1/4 cup of water. Stir to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the Sauce: Place the saucepan over medium heat and allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Cool Before Serving: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the cranberry sauce cool to room temperature. This will help the sauce thicken further and develop its full flavor before serving.
Notes
- For a smoother sauce, you can mash the cranberries lightly during cooking.
- Adjust the sugar amount depending on your preference for sweetness.
- Orange zest can be added for extra citrus flavor.
- This sauce can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature alongside your favorite dishes like turkey or roasted vegetables.
Keywords: cranberry sauce, homemade cranberry sauce, fresh cranberry sauce, holiday sauce, simple cranberry sauce
