Description
This easy cranberry sauce recipe uses fresh or frozen cranberries cooked with sugar and water to create a perfectly tangy and sweet accompaniment for any holiday meal. With the optional addition of orange zest and juice, it provides a bright citrus flavor that balances the tartness of the berries. Ready in just 20 minutes, this sauce can be served warm or chilled and thickens beautifully as it cools.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 bag (12 oz) fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 tsp orange zest (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh orange juice (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water, ensuring even distribution of all ingredients.
- Bring to Boil: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, which helps to dissolve the sugar and start softening the cranberries.
- Simmer Cranberries: Reduce the heat to low and allow the cranberries to simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the berries burst and the sauce begins to thicken.
- Add Citrus Flavors: Stir in the optional orange zest and fresh orange juice to introduce a fresh, zesty aroma that complements the tartness of the cranberries.
- Cool the Sauce: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the cranberry sauce cool to room temperature; it will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Refrigerate and Serve: Transfer the sauce to a serving dish, cover, and refrigerate until ready to serve. The sauce is delicious served chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen cranberries depending on availability; both work equally well.
- Orange zest and juice are optional but add a wonderful citrus balance to the tart cranberries.
- Stir the sauce occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Store leftover cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- This sauce pairs perfectly with turkey, chicken, or as a topping for desserts like cheesecake.
