Simple Homemade Cranberry Sauce

Bright, tangy, and perfectly balanced between sweet and tart, this Simple Homemade Cranberry Sauce elevates any meal into a festive experience. Crafted with fresh ingredients, it offers a vibrant alternative to the canned versions, capturing the true essence of holiday flavors. Its simplicity makes it accessible for both special occasions and everyday meals, transforming ordinary dishes into memorable culinary moments. Once tasted, this fresh sauce is sure to become a staple on your dining table.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water (or orange juice for added flavor)
• 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional for warmth)
• Pinch of salt

How to Make Cranberry Sauce?

Begin by rinsing the cranberries under cool water, discarding any that are soft or discolored. There is no need to thaw frozen cranberries; simply measure and use them as is. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water or orange juice. Adding orange zest and cinnamon can provide an extra layer of flavor and aromatic warmth.

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and let it simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally as the cranberries pop and release their juices, forming a glossy, thickened sauce. Remove from heat and allow it to cool, noting that the consistency will continue to thicken as it rests. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity according to preference before serving warm, chilled, or at room temperature.

Cooking Time

This recipe requires minimal preparation, with only 5 minutes needed to assemble the ingredients. The cooking process takes approximately 15 minutes, resulting in a total time of 20 minutes from start to finish. Its quick preparation makes it ideal for both spontaneous meals and planned holiday feasts.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this cranberry sauce contains roughly 90 calories, 0 grams of fat, and 23 grams of carbohydrates. Of these, 20 grams come from natural sugar, while it provides 2 grams of fiber and 0 grams of protein. This wholesome condiment delivers bright flavor without excessive calories, making it a guilt-free addition to your meals.

Storage and Reheating

Store the cranberry sauce in an airtight container within the refrigerator for up to 10 days. For extended use, it can be frozen in portions and thawed overnight in the fridge before serving. Stirring the sauce before serving helps restore its smooth, glossy texture, ensuring it remains appealing and ready to enjoy at any time.

Suggestions and Variations

For a gourmet touch, substitute half of the sugar with honey or maple syrup, which adds depth and richness to the flavor. Finely chopped apples or pears can enhance texture and natural sweetness, while a splash of red wine provides complexity and a subtle warmth. Beyond traditional turkey pairings, this sauce complements pancakes, yogurt, and even grilled meats, offering versatile culinary applications.

Seasonal Relevance

Cranberry sauce shines most prominently during fall and winter holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas, coinciding with the peak season for fresh cranberries. Its bright, tangy flavor provides balance to richer dishes, adding freshness to hearty meals. Even outside of the holiday season, frozen cranberries make this sauce a delightful year-round condiment that can brighten any table.