If you’re looking to add a burst of vibrant color and zing to your holiday table, this Classic Cranberry Sauce Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a perfect balance of tart and sweet, with the fresh brightness of orange juice and a hint of warm cinnamon that makes every bite feel like a cozy celebration. Whether it’s the star alongside your turkey or a delightful spread for your sandwiches the next day, this sauce is easy to make and elevates any meal with its fresh, homemade flair.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Classic Cranberry Sauce Recipe shines because it uses simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a crucial role in developing its bright flavor, beautiful texture, and festive color. Gathering these staples ensures that your sauce will be fresh, flavorful, and perfectly balanced.
- 12 oz cranberries: Fresh or frozen, these little gems provide the signature tartness and vibrant red color.
- ¾ cup sugar: Sweetens just enough to balance the cranberries’ natural tartness without overpowering.
- ½ cup orange juice: Adds citrusy brightness and depth, lifting the sauce to a new level of flavor.
- ½ cup water: Helps the cranberries cook down smoothly, creating the perfect consistency.
- 1 tsp orange zest: Infuses a lively aroma and enhances the fruitiness of the sauce.
- 1 cinnamon stick (optional): Provides gentle warmth and a subtle spice note that complements the citrus beautifully.
How to Make Classic Cranberry Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Start by placing the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, water, and orange zest in a medium saucepan. If you like that cozy hint of spice, add a cinnamon stick now. This simple mix of ingredients sets the stage for the vibrant flavors that are about to come to life.
Step 2: Bring to a Boil
Turn your heat to medium and slowly bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally so nothing sticks to the pan. You’ll know you’re on the right track when the cranberries start popping — it’s a sign the sauce is beginning to thicken and develop that irresistible texture.
Step 3: Simmer and Thicken
Reduce the heat to low and let your sauce gently simmer for about 10 minutes. During this time, keep stirring every now and then as the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens into that luscious, syrupy consistency that screams holiday magic.
Step 4: Adjust for Perfection
Once the sauce looks thick and fragrant, remove the saucepan from the heat. Give it a quick taste and adjust the sweetness if needed—feel free to add a splash of water if you prefer a slightly thinner sauce. This flexibility helps you create the texture that suits your personal preference.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Let your cranberry sauce cool completely. It will continue to thicken as it cools, becoming that perfect spreadable delight. You can serve it chilled or at room temperature, whichever you like best!
How to Serve Classic Cranberry Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes can turn your classic cranberry sauce into a showstopper. Fresh orange slices or a sprinkle of extra orange zest can brighten the presentation. If you’re feeling festive, a few whole cranberries or a pinch of chopped fresh rosemary lend an elegant touch and a subtle earthiness.
Side Dishes
This sauce pairs beautifully with traditional holiday dishes, especially roast turkey or chicken. It also complements creamy mashed potatoes and stuffing, adding just the right zing to balance rich flavors. For a lighter touch, try it alongside roasted vegetables or even spread it on a freshly toasted baguette slice.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the sauce dish! Serve your Classic Cranberry Sauce Recipe layered in a parfait glass with whipped cream or yogurt for a festive dessert twist. Or dollop it atop a cheese board next to sharp cheddar or creamy brie for a sophisticated appetizer that guests will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your cranberry sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to one week, making it easy to prepare in advance and enjoy throughout the holiday celebrations.
Freezing
If you want to keep your sauce longer, go ahead and freeze it. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. It will keep well for up to three months, preserving those vibrant flavors for whenever you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Reheating
If you prefer your cranberry sauce warm, gently reheat it in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring often to prevent burning. You can also microwave it in short bursts, just be sure to stir well and heat evenly for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones and are convenient if fresh cranberries aren’t available. Just add them straight to the saucepan — no need to thaw first.
Is the cinnamon stick necessary?
The cinnamon stick is optional, but it does add a lovely warm note that complements the citrus and tartness. If you’re not a fan of cinnamon, feel free to skip it or try other spices like cloves or star anise for a different twist.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! This Classic Cranberry Sauce Recipe is naturally vegan since it contains just fruit, sugar, and spices. It’s a perfect plant-based addition to any meal.
How long does cranberry sauce last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, homemade cranberry sauce will keep delicious for about a week. Always use a clean utensil to serve to avoid contamination.
Can I add other fruits to this sauce?
Of course! Some people like to mix in chopped apples, pears, or even a handful of dried fruit to add texture and flavor variation, making the sauce uniquely their own.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like a homemade cranberry sauce to bring charm and flavor to your table. This Classic Cranberry Sauce Recipe is simple, fresh, and utterly delicious — perfect for making memories and enhancing any meal. I encourage you to give it a try and watch how it transforms your holiday gatherings with its bright, joyful taste.
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Classic Cranberry Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Classic Cranberry Sauce is a simple, tangy-sweet condiment made with fresh or frozen cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and a hint of orange zest, perfect for holiday meals or any time you want to add bright flavor to your dishes. This easy stovetop recipe yields a smooth, thickened sauce with bursts of cranberry flavor and optional warming cinnamon notes.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 oz cranberries (fresh or frozen)
- ¾ cup sugar
- ½ cup orange juice
- ½ cup water
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, water, and orange zest. Add the cinnamon stick, if desired, to infuse warm spice flavors into the sauce.
- Bring to Boil: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally. As it heats, the cranberries will start to pop, releasing their juices.
- Simmer and Thicken: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering thickens the sauce and bursts most of the cranberries to create a luscious texture.
- Adjust and Remove from Heat: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness if necessary. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cranberry sauce to cool completely. It will thicken further as it cools. Serve the sauce chilled or at room temperature alongside your favorite dishes.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen cranberries interchangeably.
- Orange zest and juice add a fresh citrus note to balance the tartness of cranberries.
- Omitting the cinnamon stick yields a more straightforward cranberry flavor, while including it adds a warm spice dimension.
- Cool the sauce completely before serving for best texture.
- Store leftover cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
