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Homemade Fresh Cranberry Sauce Recipe

BySoha

A well-made cranberry sauce has the power to elevate an entire meal, adding brightness, balance, and a beautiful pop of color to the plate. This fresh, homemade version delivers a perfect harmony of tart cranberries, natural sweetness, and subtle citrus. Crafted with a chef’s precision and an appreciation for seasonal ingredients, this recipe transforms a simple condiment into a memorable dish that stands proudly alongside your holiday favorites.

Ingredients List

  • 12 oz fresh cranberries
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
  • ½ cup water
  • ½ cup orange juice
  • 1 tbsp orange zest
  • 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
  • Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cranberry Sauce Recipe
1. Rinse the Cranberries

Rinse fresh cranberries under cold water and remove any soft or wrinkled ones.

2. Combine Liquids and Sugar

In a medium saucepan, add water, orange juice, and sugar. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

3. Add the Cranberries

Stir in the cranberries, orange zest, salt, and cinnamon stick if using.

4. Simmer Until Thickened

Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens naturally.

5. Finish the Sauce

Remove the cinnamon stick. Stir in vanilla extract for extra depth. Let the sauce cool completely so it thickens further.

6. Serve or Chill

Serve at room temperature or chill for a firmer texture. It pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, chicken, ham, and even cheese boards.

Cook Time

Total: 15 minutes
Prep: 5 minutes
Bake: 0 minutes

Servings

Makes approximately 8 servings

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 95
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Fat: 0g
  • Protein: 0g
  • Sodium: 1mg

Storage Instructions

Store cooled cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days.
For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months and thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Stir before using to restore its smooth, glossy texture.

Suggestions

  • Swap orange juice for pomegranate juice for a deeper, richer flavor.
  • Add finely chopped apples or pears while simmering for natural sweetness.
  • For a gourmet touch, stir in a splash of port wine or grand marnier once off the heat.
  • Want a smoother sauce? Blend it warm, then chill.

Seasonal Relevance

Cranberry sauce shines in fall and winter when fresh cranberries are in season and hearty holiday meals call for a vibrant, acidic companion. Its bold flavor and festive color make it a timeless addition to Thanksgiving, Christmas, and cozy winter dinners.

Conclusion

Homemade cranberry sauce is more than a side dish,it’s a celebration of seasonal produce and balanced flavors. This fresh and vibrant recipe adds elegance and brightness to your table, enhancing everything it touches. Once you taste the depth and freshness of a truly well-crafted cranberry sauce, you’ll never go back to the canned version.

Homemade Fresh Cranberry Sauce Recipe
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Homemade Fresh Cranberry Sauce Recipe

Recipe by Soha
Servings

8

servings
Prep time

5

minutes
Cooking time

10

minutes
Calories

95

kcal
Total time

15

minutes

A bright, fresh, and perfectly balanced cranberry sauce made from real cranberries, citrus, and subtle sweetness. This chef-quality version delivers vibrant flavor and an elegant texture,ideal for holiday dinners, roasted meats, and festive tables.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz fresh cranberries

  • ¾ cup granulated sugar

  • ½ cup water

  • ½ cup orange juice

  • 1 tbsp orange zest

  • 1 cinnamon stick (optional)

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

  • Pinch of salt

Directions

  • Rinse cranberries and discard any soft ones.
  • In a saucepan, bring water, orange juice, and sugar to a simmer.
  • Add cranberries, orange zest, salt, and cinnamon stick if using.
  • Simmer for 10–12 minutes until berries burst and sauce thickens.
  • Remove cinnamon stick, stir in vanilla, and let cool completely.
  • Refrigerate or serve at room temperature.

Recipe Video

Notes

  • Adjust sweetness by adding more or less sugar.
  • For a smoother sauce, blend it while warm.
  • Add pomegranate juice or port wine for deeper flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I make cranberry sauce without sugar?
Yes. You can replace sugar with honey, maple syrup, or a sugar alternative, adjusting sweetness to your preference.

2. How do I fix cranberry sauce if it becomes too thick?
Simply stir in 1–2 tablespoons of warm water or orange juice until it reaches your desired consistency.

3. Can cranberry sauce be made ahead of time?
Absolutely. In fact, its flavor improves after a day as ingredients meld together, making it ideal for advance holiday prep.

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