Why Make This Recipe
Homemade cranberry sauce is a delightful addition to many meals, especially during the holidays. It contrasts beautifully with savory dishes and makes everything taste better. Making your own cranberry sauce is easy, and it allows you to control the sweetness and flavor. With fresh ingredients, you create a sauce that’s vibrant and full of holiday spirit.
How to Make Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 2 teaspoons orange zest
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Directions
- Rinse the fresh cranberries under cold water, discarding any bad berries.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water; bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, stir in the orange zest and cinnamon, and simmer for about 10 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and let cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
How to Serve Homemade Cranberry Sauce
To serve homemade cranberry sauce, spoon it into a bowl and place it on the table alongside your main dishes. It pairs wonderfully with turkey, ham, or even a simple roast. You can also use it as a spread for sandwiches or as a topping for desserts like cheesecake.
How to Store Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Store your homemade cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to two weeks, making it a great make-ahead option for holiday meals. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just be sure to leave some space in the container, as the sauce may expand when frozen.
Tips to Make Homemade Cranberry Sauce
- Taste the sauce while it cooks to find the sweetness level you prefer. You can adjust the sugar to your liking.
- Add a splash of juice, like apple or pomegranate, for a different flavor.
- For a spicier touch, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger.
Variation
You can add nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for some crunch. A splash of brandy or whiskey can also elevate the flavors, giving a warm, festive kick.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just make sure to thaw them and rinse before cooking.
2. Is it necessary to use sugar?
While sugar enhances the sweetness, you can replace it with honey or a sugar substitute if you prefer a healthier option.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! It’s great to make cranberry sauce ahead of time. It tastes even better after chilling in the fridge for a day or two as the flavors meld together.
Homemade Cranberry Sauce
A delightful and vibrant cranberry sauce that enhances savory dishes, especially during the holidays.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 2 teaspoons orange zest
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Rinse the fresh cranberries under cold water, discarding any bad berries.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water; bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to low, stir in the orange zest and cinnamon, and simmer for about 10 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and let cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
Notes
Taste the sauce while it cooks to adjust the sweetness. You can also add a splash of juice or spices for different flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 36g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg