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Easy Cranberry Sauce: Festive & Flavorful

A simple and delicious cranberry sauce recipe, perfect for Thanksgiving or any holiday gathering. This recipe uses fresh or frozen cranberries and requires minimal effort for maximum flavor.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cranberry Sauce Ingredients
  • 12 ounces Fresh or Frozen Cranberries (One 12-ounce bag)
  • 1 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (Optional, for deeper flavor)
  • 1/2 cup Orange Juice (Freshly squeezed is best)
  • 1/4 cup Water
  • 1 teaspoon Orange Zest (Optional, adds brightness)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Optional, adds warmth)
  • 1/4 teaspoon Pinch of Salt Enhances flavors

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Combine cranberries, sugar(s), orange juice, water, orange zest (if using), cinnamon (if using), and salt in a medium saucepan.
  2. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  3. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally.
  4. Remove from heat and let the sauce cool completely. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken further.
  5. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed. You can add more sugar if you prefer a sweeter sauce.
  6. Once cooled, transfer the cranberry sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow it to fully thicken. This can be stored for up to a week.
  7. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!

Notes

For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to partially puree the sauce after it has cooled slightly. Variations: Add a splash of Grand Marnier or other orange liqueur for an extra layer of flavor. Substitute other citrus juices like lime or grapefruit for the orange juice.