Homemade Cranberry Sauce Recipe
This Homemade Cranberry Sauce is a sweet and tangy side dish perfect for Thanksgiving or any meal. Made with simple ingredients like cranberries, sugar, and citrus, it’s easy to prepare and full of flavor.
Ingredients
- 12 oz 340 g fresh or frozen cranberries
- 3/4 cup sugar or honey/maple syrup for a natural sweetener
- 3/4 cup water or substitute half with orange juice for extra flavor
- 1 tsp lemon zest optional
- Pinch of salt
- Optional mix-ins: 1/2 cup chopped pecans 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 cup dried cherries or raisins
Instructions
Rinse the Cranberries:
- Pick through cranberries and discard any damaged or soft ones. Rinse well under cold water.
Combine Sugar and Liquid:
- In a medium saucepan, mix sugar (or sweetener) with water (and orange juice if using). Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
Cook Cranberries:
- Add cranberries to the saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes. Stir occasionally until most berries burst and the sauce thickens.
Add Flavor:
- Stir in lemon zest, a pinch of salt, and any optional mix-ins like nuts, dried fruits, or spices. Adjust sweetness to taste.
Cool and Serve:
- Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. The sauce will thicken as it cools. Serve with turkey, chicken, or your favorite dishes.
Notes
Tips & Variations:
- Fruit Twists: Add orange slices, blueberries, or cranberries for a different flavor.
- Spice it Up: A pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice adds warmth.
- Sweetener Alternatives: Use coconut sugar, honey, or maple syrup instead of white sugar for a healthier option.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze up to 3 months.