Best Ever Cranberry Sauce

Cranberry sauce is the ultimate holiday condiment, often overshadowed by the main dishes at festive gatherings. But when made from scratch, particularly with a zingy kick of orange juice and a hint of cinnamon, it transforms into a must-have side that perfectly complements everything from roasted turkey to rich stuffing. This recipe for the best ever cranberry sauce incorporates fresh ingredients and simple techniques to ensure vibrant flavor and the perfect texture. Let me take you through how to create this delightful sauce that’s destined to become a star of your holiday table!

What Makes This Recipe Special

This cranberry sauce offers a balance of tartness and sweetness that few store-bought variations can match. The fresh cranberries, combined with orange juice and just a touch of sugar, create a vibrant, jewel-toned side dish that’s both easy to make and delightful to taste. Via this recipe, you’ll discover the joy of homemade cranberry sauce that brings that “wow” factor to your holiday meals or casual family dinners alike.

"This cranberry sauce is a game changer! The flavors are fresh and bright, and it has become a must-have at our Thanksgiving table." – A satisfied home cook.

How to Prepare This Recipe

Making the best cranberry sauce is quick and straightforward. The combination of freshly cooked cranberries with a splash of orange juice, sugar, and aromatic cinnamon brings out the natural flavors beautifully. Here’s what you can expect when creating this sauce:

1. Combine the cranberries, orange juice, sugar, cinnamon, and water in a saucepan.
2. Bring everything to a boil over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat and let simmer until the cranberries pop and the sauce thickens—about 10-15 minutes.
4. Remove from the heat and allow it to cool before serving.

With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a luscious cranberry sauce ready to elevate your meal.

Everything You Need for This Recipe

To create the best ever cranberry sauce, gather these ingredients:

• 12 oz fresh cranberries
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 cup water

Before you start, remember you can easily swap out the orange juice for apple juice or reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet sauce.

Step-by-Step Directions

Now that you have your ingredients in hand, let’s dive into the cooking steps:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange juice, sugar, cinnamon, and water.
2. Place over medium heat and allow to come to a boil.
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on it and stir occasionally. When the cranberries burst and the sauce begins to thicken, you know it’s ready!
4. Take it off the heat and allow it to cool before serving. This will enhance the flavors even more!

Perfect Pairings for Best Ever Cranberry Sauce

Once your cranberry sauce is ready, it’s time to serve! This dish is not only an essential part of the Thanksgiving spread but also works wonderfully with other holiday meals. Pair it with:

• Roast turkey or chicken
• Pork tenderloin
• A rich cheese platter for a sweet-savory contrast
• Slather on sandwiches for a zesty kick

For a festive touch, consider garnishing it with a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a twist of orange peel before presenting it at the table.

Storage Tips

To enjoy your cranberry sauce even after the holidays, proper storage is key. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
• Freeze: If you’d like to save some for later, this sauce freezes beautifully. Place it in a freezer-safe container, and it will last for 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and stir before serving.

As with all foods, ensure to handle leftovers with care and follow safe food handling practices.

Pro Chef Tips

To elevate your cranberry sauce game, consider these expert tips:

• For an extra depth of flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract or a couple of tablespoons of port wine to the mix.
• If you prefer a smoother consistency, blend the sauce after it has cooled down and strain out any unbroken berries.
• Always taste before serving; you can adjust sweetness or acidity with additional sugar or lemon juice, depending on your preference.

Creative Twists

While this recipe is unbeatable, here are some variations to try:

• Spiced-Up Version: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for an aromatic twist.
• Add-ins: Throw in some chopped apples or pears for added texture and flavor.
• Include Nuts: Stir in some chopped walnuts or pecans just before serving for a delightful crunch.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to make cranberry sauce from scratch?

Making this cranberry sauce takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, including preparation and cooking time.

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes! Frozen cranberries can be used in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess water.

Is it safe to store leftovers?

Absolutely! Follow the storage tips mentioned earlier to ensure your leftovers are safe and delicious for up to two weeks in the refrigerator.

This easy and delightful recipe promises to add bright flavor and joy to any meal. So why not give it a try? You might just leave store-bought versions behind for good!

Best Ever Cranberry Sauce

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• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A tangy and sweet homemade cranberry sauce with a hint of cinnamon and orange juice, perfect for holiday feasts.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz fresh cranberries
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 cup water

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Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange juice, sugar, cinnamon, and water.
2. Place over medium heat and allow to come to a boil.
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
4. Take it off the heat and allow it to cool before serving.

Notes

You can swap out orange juice for apple juice or reduce the sugar for a less sweet sauce. Consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or port wine for extra flavor.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/4 cup
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 10mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: cranberry sauce, thanksgiving, holiday recipes, homemade condiments, festive side dish