Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Nothing says Thanksgiving magic like fresh, tangy cranberry sauce that you made from scratch! With this super simple, oh-so-delicious recipe, you’ll be ready to wow everyone at the table in just 20 minutes. Ditch the canned stuff — this Homemade Cranberry Sauce is fresh, vibrant, and a breeze to make. Plus, you only need a few ingredients!
Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup sugar (brown sugar works too, for a deeper flavor)
- 1 cup water (or orange juice if you’re feeling fancy!)
- 12 oz fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
- Optional flavor boosts: cinnamon stick, orange zest, or a splash of vanilla extract for extra pizazz
Steps to Cranberry Sauce Perfection:
1. Gather Your Ingredients
• Rinse those cranberries and pick out any shriveled ones.
• Measure out your sugar and water (or orange juice).
2. Get That Sugar Mixture Boiling
• In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water (or orange juice if you’re going for that extra zing).
• Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until it’s all nice and dissolved.
3. Add the Star Ingredient: Cranberries!
• Once your sugar mix is boiling, add in the cranberries. They’ll start popping like festive little fireworks – this is the best part!
4. Let it Simmer to Saucy Goodness
• Lower the heat and let those cranberries simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally and listen to those satisfying pops!
• Keep simmering until the sauce gets thick and jammy – it should look rich and luscious.
5. Spice it Up (If You Want!)
• Stir in a pinch of cinnamon, a bit of orange zest, or a dash of vanilla. Cook for another minute to let those flavors blend.
6. Cool and Serve
• Pour the sauce into a serving dish and let it cool completely. It’ll thicken up even more as it sits.
• Serve it room temperature or chilled — it’s delicious either way!
Why This Cranberry Sauce is a Holiday Must-Have:
1. Fresh and Flavorful: Nothing beats the bright, tangy taste of homemade cranberry sauce.
2. Totally Customizable: Want extra citrus or a touch of spice? Make it your own!
3. So Simple: You only need 20 minutes, and you’re done. Easy peasy.
Pro Tips & Tricks
• Adjust the Sweetness: Want it a little sweeter? Add an extra spoonful of sugar to taste.
• Make Ahead Magic: Cranberry sauce actually gets tastier after a day or two in the fridge, so go ahead and make it early.
• Freeze Your Leftovers: Extra cranberry sauce freezes beautifully! Just thaw it in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes! Just add them straight to the pot without thawing – they work perfectly.
What if it’s too thick?
No problem! Just add a splash of water or juice until you get the consistency you love.
How long will it last?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, this cranberry sauce will stay fresh for up to two weeks.
This homemade cranberry sauce is the perfect Thanksgiving side but don’t stop there! Try it on sandwiches, in yogurt, or even spread on toast. One taste, and you’ll be making it every year!
Impress your guests with the homemade Cranberry Sauce that is better than any canned cranberry sauce on the market.
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Also Try these Cranberry Recipes
Cranberry Orange Juice Chicken Recipe
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