Description
This Best Ever Cranberry Sauce recipe is a simple and delicious homemade cranberry sauce made from fresh cranberries, orange juice, and a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for holiday tables or any occasion, it balances tartness with sweetness and aromatic spices, creating a vibrant accompaniment for roasted meats or desserts.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- ¾ cup sugar
- ½ cup orange juice
- ½ cup water
- 12 oz fresh cranberries (rinsed and picked through)
- pinch of salt
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 piece of orange peel (use a potato peeler or paring knife to peel)
Instructions
- Combine liquids and sugar: In a large saucepan over medium heat, mix together the sugar, orange juice, and water. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is combined.
- Add cranberries and flavorings: Add the fresh cranberries, a pinch of salt, the cinnamon stick, and the piece of orange peel to the saucepan.
- Simmer the mixture: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Cook until cranberries pop: Continue simmering for about 10 minutes, or until most cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened. Leaving a few whole berries is preferred for texture.
- Cool the sauce: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the cranberry sauce cool completely for at least 30 minutes. Then cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Make ahead option: The sauce can be prepared up to 3 days in advance, which allows flavors to meld and develop further.
Notes
- You can adjust the sugar amount to your taste preference for a sweeter or tarter sauce.
- Using fresh cranberries provides the best texture; frozen can be used but may change consistency.
- Remove the cinnamon stick and orange peel before serving.
- Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- The sauce pairs beautifully with turkey, chicken, pork, or as a topping for desserts like cheesecake or ice cream.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American