When it comes to the holiday table or brightening up a weeknight dinner, nothing outshines the vibrant, tangy charm of Easy Cranberry Sauce. In just under 20 minutes, you’ll have a ruby-red, sweet-tart sauce brimming with whole cranberries, zesty citrus notes, and the gentle warmth of cinnamon. Whether you’re a Thanksgiving traditionalist or just craving a pop of color and flavor with your favorite meals, this is the sauce that delivers every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Fresh Cranberry Sauce:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
How to Make Easy Cranberry Sauce
Step 1: Combine Main Ingredients
Start by reaching for a medium saucepan and pop it on your stove over medium heat. Pour in the cranberries, sugar, and water. Give everything a gentle stir—you’ll notice the cranberries begin to float, glistening like little jewels!
Step 2: Bring to Boil and Simmer
Bring the mixture up to a gentle boil, watching as the sugar dissolves and the cranberries start to pop. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10 to 12 minutes, stirring every so often. You’ll know it’s ready when most of the berries have burst and the sauce thickens up with a gorgeous, jammy consistency.
Step 3: Add Final Flavors
At the very end, stir in that fragrant orange zest and, if you love a little depth, the optional cinnamon. The kitchen instantly smells like a holiday dream! Give it a final stir and take the pot off the heat.
Step 4: Cool and Serve
Let your Easy Cranberry Sauce cool right in the saucepan. It will thicken more as it comes down to room temperature, making it even more spoonable. Serve chilled for the freshest contrast, or mildly warm if you like a comforting touch.
How to Serve Easy Cranberry Sauce
Garnishes
To make your Easy Cranberry Sauce truly shine, sprinkle an extra pinch of fresh orange zest or a stick of cinnamon right on top before presenting. For a festive touch, a scattering of candied orange peel or a handful of whole cranberries can make it pop beautifully against the table spread.
Side Dishes
This sauce is a classic next to roast turkey or glazed ham, but it also loves to mingle with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or even a crisp autumn salad. Trust me, it’s a welcome guest at any feast, big or small!
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the bowl! Spoon Easy Cranberry Sauce over baked brie for a decadent appetizer, dollop it onto yogurt for a breakfast treat, or swirl it into oatmeal. It also makes a delightful topping for cheesecake or a sweet surprise on a veggie burger.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Easy Cranberry Sauce stores like a champion. Transfer cooled sauce to an airtight container, and it will keep in the fridge for up to a week. The flavors only get richer with time, making those leftovers even better!
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze Easy Cranberry Sauce! Simply portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. It keeps well for up to two months, perfect for pulling out anytime you want a little burst of flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring often, just until warmed through. If it thickens too much, a splash of water will bring it back to perfect scooping consistency.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! No need to thaw—just toss them straight into the pot. You might need an extra minute or two of simmering, but the result will be just as delicious.
Is Easy Cranberry Sauce very tart?
The balance of sugar and citrus yields a lovely sweet-tart sauce. Feel free to add a little extra sugar if you like yours on the sweeter side, or a little less if you prefer more tartness.
Can I make this recipe without orange zest?
Yes! While orange zest adds brightness, you can certainly leave it out or substitute with lemon zest for a different citrus kick. Vanilla extract or a splash of orange juice works nicely as well.
Does this sauce thicken as it cools?
It sure does. Don’t worry if it seems a bit loose when you first take it off the heat—it sets up beautifully as it cools, resulting in that perfect jammy texture.
Is Easy Cranberry Sauce good beyond Thanksgiving?
Oh yes! Try it on breakfast pancakes, sandwiched in grilled cheese, or spooned over roasted vegetables. It’s a brilliant way to add tangy brightness to everyday meals, not just holiday feasts.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never made Easy Cranberry Sauce from scratch before, now really is the perfect time. With its punchy flavor, jewel-toned beauty, and absolute simplicity, this recipe is a trusty favorite you’ll come back to every season. Gather your cranberries and get stirring—your table (and your taste buds) will thank you!
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Easy Cranberry Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free
Description
A quick and easy recipe for homemade cranberry sauce that’s perfect for the holidays. This tangy and sweet sauce pairs beautifully with turkey or as a topping for desserts.
Ingredients
Fresh Cranberry Sauce:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Cranberries: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water. Stir occasionally and bring to a gentle boil.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Flavor with Zest and Cinnamon: Stir in the orange zest and cinnamon if using. Remove from heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature; it will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Serve: Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- You can replace half the water with orange juice for a citrusy twist.
- The sauce can be made up to a week ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
