Cranberry sauce recipe is an iconic addition to any festive table, especially during the holidays. But let’s face it — the canned version doesn’t hold a candle to the fresh, homemade kind.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a cranberry sauce that’s bursting with bright, tangy flavor and a texture that’s unbeatable. Once you try making your own, you’ll never look back.
Whether you’re pairing it with a roasted turkey, using it as a topping for desserts, or spreading it on sandwiches, homemade cranberry sauce is a game-changer.
Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste with fun add-ins and natural sweeteners. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make the ultimate cranberry sauce that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients Overview of Cranberry Sauce Recipe
You’ll love how few ingredients this recipe requires. Each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of flavors:
Main Ingredients:
- Cranberries: Fresh or frozen cranberries work beautifully for this recipe. Their natural tartness is the star of the show.
- Sweetener: Granulated sugar, honey, or maple syrup — each adds its own unique flavor. Maple syrup, for instance, adds a subtle caramel-like sweetness.
- Water: A simple base to help the cranberries cook down and create a sauce-like consistency.
Optional Add-Ins:
- Orange zest and juice: Adds a citrusy brightness.
- Cinnamon stick: A warm spice that pairs perfectly with cranberries.
- Dried fruits (e.g., cherries, raisins): Adds texture and sweetness.
- Pecans or walnuts: For a nutty crunch.
Did you know? Cranberries are packed with natural pectin, which helps thicken the sauce as it cooks. That means no cornstarch or additional thickeners are needed!
Step-by-Step of Cranberry Sauce Recipe
Here’s how to make the ultimate cranberry sauce in just a few easy steps:
Preparation
- Gather Ingredients: Measure out your cranberries, sweetener, and water. If you’re using any optional add-ins like orange zest or cinnamon, have those ready as well.
- Rinse the Cranberries: If using fresh cranberries, rinse them thoroughly and remove any that are soft or discolored.
Cooking and Adjusting Flavor
- Dissolve the Sweetener: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar (or 3/4 cup honey or maple syrup) with 3/4 cup of water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sweetener is fully dissolved.
- Cook the Cranberries: Add 12 ounces of cranberries to the saucepan. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pro Tip: You’ll know the cranberries are ready when they burst, releasing their natural pectin and creating a thick, jammy texture.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the sauce and add more sweetener, if needed, for your preferred balance of tart and sweet.
Storage Tips
- Cool the Sauce: Allow the cranberry sauce to cool to room temperature before transferring it to a storage container.
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
- Freezing: Cranberry sauce freezes exceptionally well. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Creative Uses for Cranberry Sauce
Homemade cranberry sauce isn’t just for turkey! Here are some creative ways to enjoy it:
- Sandwiches: Spread it on a turkey sandwich for a sweet-tangy kick or pair it with ham and brie for a gourmet lunch.
- Desserts: Use it as a topping for cheesecake, ice cream, or pound cake.
- Breakfast: Swirl it into oatmeal, yogurt, or even pancake batter.
- Appetizers: Serve it alongside baked brie or as a dip with cream cheese and crackers.
- Salads: Mix it into a vinaigrette for a fruity salad dressing.
Variations to Try
Get creative with your cranberry sauce by trying one of these flavorful variations:
- Cranberry Orange Sauce: Add the zest and juice of one orange for a bright, citrusy twist.
- Spiced Cranberry Sauce: Simmer with a cinnamon stick, a pinch of nutmeg, and a dash of ground cloves for a warm, holiday-inspired flavor.
- Nutty Cranberry Sauce: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts after cooking for added texture.
- Berry Medley Sauce: Add raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for a mixed berry flavor.
- Adult Version: Stir in a splash of bourbon or Grand Marnier for a boozy kick.
Tips for Success
- Taste as You Go: Cranberries can vary in tartness, so adjust the sweetener to suit your preferences.
- Don’t Rush: Simmer the sauce slowly to allow the cranberries to release their pectin and thicken naturally.
- Add Sweetener Gradually: It’s easier to add more sweetener than to take it away, so start with less and adjust as needed.
Key Notes for the Recipe
- Course: Condiment, Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 8 servings (about 2 cups)
- Calories: 116 kcal per serving
Make this cranberry sauce your go-to recipe for every occasion. It’s quick, easy, and endlessly customizable — perfect for holiday gatherings or everyday meals!
Conclusion:
Homemade cranberry sauce is a must-have for holiday meals, but its versatility extends far beyond the dinner table. From sandwiches to desserts, this easy 3-ingredient recipe is the perfect balance of sweet and tart. Once you try it, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought again.
So grab some cranberries, a sweetener of your choice, and your favorite add-ins, and whip up a batch of this delicious sauce. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or looking for a flavorful condiment to elevate everyday meals, this cranberry sauce has you covered.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen cranberries?
A: Yes! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones. They might take slightly longer to cook, but the flavor and texture remain the same.
Q: Can I make cranberry sauce ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. Cranberry Sauce Recipe can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the fridge. It also freezes beautifully for up to three months.
Q: How do I fix cranberry sauce that’s too tart?
A: If your sauce is too tart, stir in additional sweetener, like sugar, honey, or maple syrup, until it reaches your desired sweetness.
Q: Is cranberry sauce supposed to be served warm or cold?
A: Cranberry sauce is traditionally served cold or at room temperature, but you can warm it slightly if you prefer.
Q: Can I make cranberry sauce without added sugar?
A: Yes, you can sweeten it naturally with fruits like apples, orange juice, or dates instead of sugar.
