This easy cranberry sauce recipe is a perfect complement to your Thanksgiving table. Made with fresh cranberries, orange zest, and brown sugar, it delivers a delightful sweet-tart flavor that enhances any holiday meal. So check my recipe below if you want the best cranberry sauce!
Whether it’s your first time making cranberry sauce or you’re looking for the best ever cranberry sauce, this simple recipe requires just a handful of ingredients and can be prepared in a medium saucepan on medium-high heat. Store any leftover cranberry sauce in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for the next day.
Creating the Perfect Cranberry Sauce
Homemade cranberry sauce is a delightful addition to any Thanksgiving table, offering a vibrant burst of flavor that complements the savory dishes served during the holiday season. This easy cranberry sauce recipe showcases fresh cranberries, orange zest, and a touch of brown sugar, creating a sweet-tart flavor profile that enhances your holiday meal.
Whether you are preparing this for the first time or are a seasoned cook, this simple recipe requires just a handful of ingredients. With a medium saucepan and about 30 minutes of your time, you can whip up a batch that will impress your guests and elevate your Thanksgiving dinner.
Ingredients for Success
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the best cranberry sauce. Start with a bag of fresh cranberries from your grocery store, ensuring they are plump and vibrant. You’ll also need fresh orange juice and a bit of orange zest to add brightness to the sauce.
Brown sugar is the sweetener of choice here, but you can adjust the amount to your taste, opting for less sugar if preferred. A cinnamon stick adds warmth and depth to the flavor, making it a perfect companion for your Thanksgiving turkey. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a splash of Grand Marnier or cranberry juice for an extra layer of taste.
Cooking Instructions
To start, combine the fresh cranberries, orange juice, brown sugar, orange zest, and a pinch of salt in a medium saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer.
As the sauce cooks, you’ll notice the cranberries bursting and releasing their natural pectin, which helps thicken the sauce. Stir occasionally and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency. Once cooked, remove the cinnamon stick and allow the sauce to cool at room temperature. The sauce cools further as it sits, thickening nicely.
Serving Suggestions
This cranberry sauce is not just a side dish; it can elevate your entire Thanksgiving meal. Serve it alongside your beautifully roasted turkey, or pair it with sweet potato casserole for a delicious contrast. The vibrant color and flavor make it a standout on your Thanksgiving table.
Don’t forget about the leftovers! This sauce is perfect for leftover turkey sandwiches or even as a topping for plain Greek yogurt or ice cream. Its versatility ensures that it can be enjoyed long after the holiday meal is over.
Storage Tips
After your Thanksgiving feast, store any leftover cranberry sauce in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for a short period or refrigerated for the next day. The flavors continue to meld, making it even more delicious when served later.
If you’re planning ahead, this sauce can be made a couple of days in advance, allowing you to focus on other Thanksgiving prep. The best part is that it tastes just as good, if not better, after a day or two in the fridge!
Why Homemade is Better
Choosing to make your own cranberry sauce instead of relying on canned options is a decision that pays off in flavor and freshness. Homemade versions allow you to control the sweetness and ingredients, ensuring a sauce that perfectly matches your taste preferences.
With this easy recipe, you can create the best homemade cranberry sauce that will impress your family and friends. The combination of fresh cranberries, orange zest, and a hint of cinnamon makes for a delicious addition to your holiday meal, showcasing the spirit of Thanksgiving in every bite.
Easy Cranberry Sauce Recipe for Thanksgiving
This cranberry sauce features fresh cranberries, fresh orange juice, and a bit of cinnamon stick for added warmth. The total time for preparation is about 30 minutes, and it serves as a delicious side dish for your Thanksgiving dinner or holiday turkey. You can also enjoy it on leftover turkey sandwiches or even with ice cream for a unique dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 bag of fresh cranberries (12 oz)
- 1 cup of fresh orange juice
- 1 cup of brown sugar (or less sugar to taste)
- 1 tablespoon of fresh orange zest
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/4 cup of cranberry juice (optional)
- 1 tablespoon of Grand Marnier (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, orange juice, brown sugar, orange zest, cinnamon stick, and a pinch of salt.
- Cook the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Cool the Sauce: Remove the cinnamon stick and let the sauce cool at room temperature. The sauce will thicken further as it cools.
- Store: Transfer the cranberry sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate if not serving immediately. It can be made a couple of days in advance and stored in the fridge.
- Serve: Serve the cranberry sauce alongside your Thanksgiving turkey, sweet potato casserole, or as a topping for plain Greek yogurt or ice cream.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 8 servings
- Calories: 100kcal
- Fat: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
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