Description
Elevate your holiday table with this simple yet flavorful homemade cranberry sauce! Made with fresh cranberries, orange juice, and just the right amount of sweetness, it’s perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive occasion.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Produce:
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
Baking & Spices:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 pinch of salt
Drinks:
- 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
Liquids:
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
1. Combine Ingredients:
- In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, water, and a pinch of salt. Stir to mix.
2. Cook the Sauce:
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
3. Simmer:
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries start to pop and the sauce thickens. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Cool and Serve:
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature. It will thicken further as it cools.
- Transfer to a serving dish and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Make Ahead: This sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Optional Add-Ins: Add a cinnamon stick, a pinch of nutmeg, or orange zest while cooking for extra flavor.
- Sweetness Adjustment: For a sweeter sauce, add an extra 1-2 tablespoons of sugar. For a tart flavor, reduce the sugar slightly.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
