Easy Cranberry Sauce Recipe: A Festive Flavor Delight

Name: Easy Cranberry Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice; 1/2 cup water; 1 cinnamon stick

Published: May 18, 2025

by Amelia

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This easy cranberry sauce recipe is a breeze to whip up, taking only about 15 minutes from start to finish.
Its balance of sweet and tart flavors makes it a versatile companion for everything from turkey to pancakes.
With its stunning color and glossy texture, it adds an eye-catching element to your holiday spread.
You can customize it by adding spices or fruits based on your preferences!

Ingredients for Easy Cranberry Sauce Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Fresh Cranberries: Opt for firm, bright berries without blemishes for the best flavor and texture.
Sugar: Granulated sugar brings sweetness; you can adjust this based on your taste preference.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice adds a zesty brightness that complements the cranberries beautifully.
Water: Essential for boiling the cranberries down to create that luscious sauce consistency.
Cinnamon Stick: A whole cinnamon stick infuses warmth and spice into the sauce as it simmers.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Easy Cranberry Sauce Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Rinse the Berries

Start by rinsing your fresh cranberries under cold water in a colander until they’re nice and clean. Remove any stems or spoiled berries because we want only the good ones in our sauce.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine two cups of fresh cranberries, one cup of sugar, half a cup of water, and half a cup of orange juice. Stir well until everything is mixed together nicely.

Step 3: Add Cinnamon

Throw in a cinnamon stick for that warm spice aroma. Trust me; your kitchen will smell like holiday magic as it simmers!

Step 4: Bring to a Boil

Increase the heat until you bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once bubbling, reduce heat slightly and let it simmer for about ten minutes, stirring occasionally until all those berries burst open like tiny red fireworks.

Step 5: Thicken Your Sauce

As it simmers, watch as the mixture thickens and transforms into a beautiful sauce. If you prefer it thicker, let it cook a bit longer while keeping an eye on it so nothing burns.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once done, remove from heat and discard the cinnamon stick. Let cool before transferring it to a serving dish or jar. It will thicken even more as it cools! Serve chilled or at room temperature alongside your favorite dishes.

Now transfer this gorgeous cranberry sauce to plates or bowls next to your main course and prepare for applause (or at least some delighted nods) from family and friends!

You Must Know

This easy cranberry sauce recipe adds a pop of color and flavor to your holiday table.
It’s super simple to make and can be customized for your taste buds.
Plus, it pairs perfectly with turkey or chicken, making it a versatile sidekick for any meal.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by rinsing the cranberries to remove any imperfections. Next, simmer them with sugar and your choice of juice or broth until they burst. Stir frequently for even cooking, and then allow it to cool before serving.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the sugar for honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness. You can also add spices like cinnamon or ginger for an extra kick. Want some zest? A splash of orange juice or zest will brighten the flavors!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through without losing its vibrant texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For that perfect cranberry sauce, remember that fresh cranberries yield the best results; frozen ones can work but may alter the texture slightly.
Also, let it cool completely before storing to avoid excess moisture in the container.

Sometimes I think my love for this easy cranberry sauce recipe stems from my Aunt Martha’s Thanksgiving dinners where everyone fought over who got the last spoonful! It always brings back such warm memories of family gatherings.

FAQs:

What is the best way to prepare Easy Cranberry Sauce Recipe?

To prepare the Easy Cranberry Sauce Recipe, start by rinsing fresh cranberries under cold water. In a saucepan, combine cranberries with sugar and your choice of fruit juice or broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This method enhances the flavor while keeping it simple and delicious.

Can I make Easy Cranberry Sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can easily make this Easy Cranberry Sauce Recipe ahead of time. Simply cook the sauce as directed, then allow it to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to one week. When ready to serve, just give it a good stir, and enjoy the flavors that have deepened over time.

What are some variations for my Easy Cranberry Sauce Recipe?

There are many delightful variations for your Easy Cranberry Sauce Recipe. You can add spices like cinnamon or ginger for warmth. Incorporating orange zest or chopped apples brings a refreshing twist. For added texture, consider mixing in nuts or dried fruits. These variations will enhance the flavors and make your cranberry sauce unique.

How long does homemade cranberry sauce last?

Homemade cranberry sauce can last in the refrigerator for about one week when stored properly in an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. When frozen, cranberry sauce can maintain its quality for up to three months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before serving for optimum taste.

Conclusion for Easy Cranberry Sauce Recipe

In summary, making an Easy Cranberry Sauce Recipe is simple and quick. With fresh cranberries, sugar, and your choice of juice or broth, you can create a flavorful addition to any meal. By preparing this sauce ahead of time or experimenting with different variations, you can customize it to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy this vibrant accompaniment that adds zest to your dining experience!

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