cranberry sauce homemade
This homemade cranberry sauce is a perfect accompaniment for holiday meals or any festive occasion. It's tart, sweet, and incredibly easy to make from scratch. This recipe yields a deliciously vibrant sauce that complements turkey, ham, or even desserts.
Equipment
- 1 Medium saucepan
- 1 Measuring cups
- 1 Measuring spoons
- 1 Wooden spoon or spatula
- 1 Zester or grater optional for orange zest
- 1 Serving dish
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries About 3 cups.
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 zest orange Optional.
- ¼ cup juice of orange About 1 orange, optional.
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
- Rinse the fresh cranberries under cold water, removing any damaged ones.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the water, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves.
- Once the sugar has dissolved, add the cranberries to the saucepan. If using, add the orange zest and juice at this stage.
- Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let cook for about 10-15 minutes. The cranberries will pop and the sauce will thicken.
- Stir occasionally and cook until the sauce reaches your desired consistency—keep in mind it will thicken more as it cools.
- Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool for a bit before transferring to a serving dish or an airtight container. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
- If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can pulse the cooled cranberry sauce in a blender or food processor.
- Feel free to experiment with additional spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a twist on the classic flavor!
Notes
This cranberry sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can pulse the cooled cranberry sauce in a blender or food processor.
Feel free to experiment with additional spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a twist on the classic flavor!