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Best Ever Cranberry Sauce Recipe


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3.8 from 41 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes cooling time)
  • Yield: 8 servings

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

  1. 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.
  2. Add cranberries and flavorings: Add the fresh cranberries, a pinch of salt, the cinnamon stick, and the piece of orange peel to the saucepan.
  3. Simmer the mixture: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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