Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce Recipe!

If you’re looking for a delicious and festive addition to your holiday meal, a homemade cranberry sauce is the perfect choice. Made with simple ingredients, this easy cranberry sauce recipe will impress your guests and elevate your dishes. Say goodbye to store-bought cranberry sauce and hello to the sweet and tangy flavors of homemade cranberry sauce!

To make this homemade cranberry sauce, you’ll need 100g of light muscovado sugar, 100ml of orange juice, and 250g of fresh or frozen cranberries. In a pan, bring the sugar and orange juice to a boil, then stir in the cranberries and simmer until tender. As the sauce cools, it will thicken to perfection. You can store it in the fridge for up to a week, ensuring you have a delicious accompaniment for multiple meals.

Why settle for store-bought when you can make your own homemade cranberry sauce? Not only is it easy to prepare, but it allows you to customize the flavors to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a traditional cranberry sauce or want to add a unique twist with spices or other additions, the possibilities are endless when you make it from scratch.

Stay tuned for the next section where we’ll dive into the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious cranberry sauce. Get ready to impress your guests with this homemade cranberry sauce recipe that’s sure to become a holiday favorite!

Cranberry Sauce Recipe

Ingredients for Cranberry Sauce

When it comes to making a traditional cranberry sauce, the key is to gather the right ingredients. With just a few simple staples, you can whip up a delicious sauce from scratch that will complement your holiday feast. Here are the essential items you’ll need:

  • 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries (about 3 cups)
  • 1 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 cup water (or orange juice for extra flavor)
  • Optional: Zest of one orange, a cinnamon stick, or a pinch of salt for added flavor

If you’re looking to add an extra touch of warmth and spice to your cranberry sauce, consider including ground cinnamon. This aromatic spice complements the cranberries beautifully and adds a cozy, festive element to the sauce.

By using these simple ingredients, you can create a traditional cranberry sauce that will impress your guests and elevate your holiday meal. Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s dive into how to make the sauce from scratch. But first, take a moment to feast your eyes on some mouthwatering homemade cranberry sauce!

“Cranberry sauce is a sweet and tangy condiment that adds a burst of flavour to any roast dinner. Making your own cranberry sauce from scratch allows you to control the sweetness and texture, resulting in a sauce that perfectly complements your meal. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make!”

– Chef Mary Brown

How to Make Cranberry Sauce?

Making cranberry sauce is a breeze with this easy cranberry sauce recipe. Whether you’re looking for a quick cranberry sauce to complement your holiday feast or simply craving a delicious cranberry sauce to enhance your meals, this recipe has got you covered. Follow these simple steps to create a homemade cranberry sauce that will impress your family and friends.

1. If you’re using fresh cranberries, rinse them under cold water and remove any stems or bad berries.

If you're using fresh cranberries, rinse them under cold water and remove any stems or bad berries

2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water (or orange juice). Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat.

In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water (or orange juice). Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat

3. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Stir occasionally. You’ll start to hear the cranberries popping as they cook.

Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Stir occasionally. You’ll start to hear the cranberries popping as they cook

4. Continue simmering for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. If you want a smoother sauce, you can mash the berries with the back of a spoon.

5. If using, add the orange zest, cinnamon stick, or a pinch of salt during the last few minutes of cooking for extra flavor.

If using, add the orange zest, cinnamon stick, or a pinch of salt during the last few minutes of cooking for extra flavor

6. Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool at room temperature. It will continue to thicken as it cools.

Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool at room temperature. It will continue to thicken as it cools

7. Transfer the sauce to a bowl and refrigerate for at least a couple of hours (or overnight) before serving.

Transfer the sauce to a bowl and refrigerate for at least a couple of hours (or overnight) before serving

What to Serve With Cranberry Sauce?

easy cranberry sauce recipe

Classic Pairings

Cranberry sauce is a versatile condiment that pairs well with a variety of dishes. It is a classic accompaniment to turkey, but it can also be served with other meats like beef or ham. The tangy sweetness of the cranberry sauce adds a burst of flavor that complements the savory meat perfectly. So, whether you’re preparing a traditional roast dinner or a holiday feast, be sure to include a side of cranberry sauce for that classic touch.

Holiday Favorites

This holiday cranberry sauce is a must-have addition to your festive table spread. It adds a vibrant pop of color and a burst of fruity flavor that elevates any meal. In addition to pairing it with turkey, you can also serve it alongside traditional side dishes to create a harmonious and delicious combination of flavors. Here are some holiday favorites that go wonderfully with cranberry sauce:

  • Sweet Potato Casserole – The creamy sweetness of the sweet potatoes complements the tartness of the cranberries, creating a delightful contrast of flavors.
  • Green Beans – The crisp and refreshing green beans provide a fresh texture that balances the richness of the cranberry sauce.
  • Stuffing – The savory and aromatic stuffing becomes even more flavorful when paired with the tangy cranberry sauce.
Dish Description
Turkey The classic main dish of traditional holiday meals.
Beef or Ham Alternative options for those who prefer a different meat.
Sweet Potato Casserole A baked dish made with sweet potatoes, brown sugar, and marshmallows.
Green Beans A side dish made with fresh green beans, typically cooked with garlic and butter.
Stuffing A mixture of breadcrumbs, herbs, and other ingredients, often cooked inside the turkey.

These are just a few examples, but feel free to experiment and create your own combinations. The versatility of cranberry sauce allows you to explore different flavor profiles and discover new taste sensations that will impress your guests.

holiday cranberry sauce

Famous Chef’s Cranberry Sauce Recipe

Mary Berry Cranberry Sauce

Instructions:

  1. Combine Ingredients: Place 300g of fresh or frozen cranberries, 200g of caster sugar, and 100ml of orange juice in a saucepan.
  2. Cook: Heat gently, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves. Bring to a boil, then simmer for about 10 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
  3. Cool: Allow the sauce to cool. It will thicken further as it cools.
  4. Serve: Serve warm or cold. Store in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Difference: Mary Berry’s recipe uses orange juice for a citrusy twist and focuses on a simple, straightforward preparation.

Port Wine Cranberry Sauce Recipe

Instructions:

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine 300g of fresh or frozen cranberries, 150g of sugar, 100ml of port wine, and the zest and juice of one orange.
  2. Cook: Heat gently, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10-15 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
  3. Cool: Let the sauce cool. It will thicken more as it cools.
  4. Serve: Serve at room temperature or chilled. Store in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Difference: This variation incorporates port wine for a rich, deep flavor, combined with orange zest and juice for additional citrus notes.

Jamie Oliver Cranberry Sauce

Instructions:

  1. Combine Ingredients: Place 300g of fresh or frozen cranberries, 100g of soft brown sugar, the zest and juice of 1 clementine, and a splash of port (optional) in a saucepan.
  2. Cook: Heat gently, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves. Bring to a boil, then simmer for about 10 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
  3. Cool: Allow to cool before serving. The sauce will thicken further as it cools.
  4. Serve: Serve warm or cold. Store in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Difference: Jamie Oliver’s recipe includes clementine zest and juice for a unique citrus flavor and an optional splash of port for extra richness.

Delia’s Cranberry Sauce

Instructions:

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine 450g of fresh cranberries, 225g of caster sugar, 5 tablespoons of water, and the zest and juice of 1 orange.
  2. Cook: Heat gently, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves. Bring to a boil, then simmer for about 10 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
  3. Cool: Allow the sauce to cool. It will thicken as it cools.
  4. Serve: Serve at room temperature or chilled. Store in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Difference: Delia’s recipe uses a higher quantity of cranberries and sugar, along with both water and orange zest/juice, creating a slightly larger batch with a balanced citrus flavor.

Marks and Spencer Cranberry Sauce

Instructions:

  1. Combine Ingredients: Place 300g of fresh or frozen cranberries, 100g of sugar, 1 finely chopped apple, the zest and juice of 1 lemon, and a pinch of ground cinnamon in a saucepan.
  2. Cook: Heat gently, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the apple softens. Bring to a boil, then simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
  3. Cool: Let the sauce cool. It will thicken further as it cools.
  4. Serve: Serve at room temperature or chilled. Store in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Difference: Marks and Spencer’s recipe includes a finely chopped apple and ground cinnamon, adding a fruity and slightly spiced flavor to the sauce.

Tips and Variations for Cranberry Sauce Recipe

Looking to add a festive touch to your homemade cranberry sauce? Here are some tips and variations to make your cranberry sauce stand out:

Add a Cumberland Sauce-Style Twist

If you want to enhance the flavor of your cranberry sauce, try adding blanched strips of orange zest. This will give your sauce a citrusy twist reminiscent of Cumberland sauce. The tangy sweetness of the zest will complement the tartness of the cranberries, creating a delightful balance of flavors.

Spice it Up

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, why not spice up your cranberry sauce with ginger or chili? These spices will add depth and a subtle kick to your sauce, making it a bold and exciting accompaniment to your holiday feast. Just be sure to adjust the amount of spice according to your personal preference.

A Splash of Port

If you’re looking to elevate the richness of your cranberry sauce, consider adding a splash of port. This fortified wine adds complexity and depth of flavor to the sauce, enhancing its overall taste. The fruity undertones of the port beautifully complement the tart cranberries, resulting in a luxurious and festive cranberry sauce.

Remember, don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different additions to find your perfect homemade cranberry sauce recipe. Whether you prefer a classic sauce with a twist or a spicy and sophisticated variation, these tips will help you create the best cranberry sauce for your holiday table.

Tips and Variations for Cranberry Sauce
Add blanched strips of orange zest for a Cumberland sauce-style twist.
Spice up your cranberry sauce with ginger or chili for an extra kick.
Add a splash of port to elevate the richness of your sauce.

Conclusion

Homemade cranberry sauce is the perfect addition to any holiday meal. With its vibrant color and tangy sweetness, it adds a burst of flavor that complements a variety of dishes. Making your own cranberry sauce is surprisingly simple, requiring just a few basic ingredients. Whether you prefer a classic recipe or want to experiment with unique variations, creating your own cranberry sauce allows you to customize it to your taste.

By following an easy cranberry sauce recipe, you can have a delicious sauce in no time. The combination of fresh or frozen cranberries, sugar, and a splash of orange juice creates a delightful balance of tartness and sweetness. As the sauce simmers and thickens, the flavors meld together to form a rich and luscious accompaniment to your meal.

What sets homemade cranberry sauce apart from store-bought versions is the opportunity to add your personal touch. You can incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm and aromatic twist. For a more festive flair, consider adding orange zest or a splash of port. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create the best cranberry sauce recipe that suits your preferences.

So why settle for a pre-made cranberry sauce when you can easily make your own? Enjoy the satisfaction of creating a delicious cranberry sauce that will impress your guests and elevate your holiday feast. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this easy cranberry sauce recipe is sure to become a favorite addition to your culinary repertoire.

easy cranberry sauce recipe

Cranberry Sauce Recipe

Freya
Homemade cranberry sauce is the perfect addition to any holiday meal. With its vibrant color and tangy sweetness, it adds a burst of flavor that complements a variety of dishes.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 3 people

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup water

Instructions
 

  • If you're using fresh cranberries, rinse them under cold water and remove any stems or bad berries.
  • In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water (or orange juice). Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat.
  • Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Stir occasionally. You’ll start to hear the cranberries popping as they cook.
  • Continue simmering for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. If you want a smoother sauce, you can mash the berries with the back of a spoon.
  • If using, add the orange zest, cinnamon stick, or a pinch of salt during the last few minutes of cooking for extra flavor.
  • Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool at room temperature. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
  • Transfer the sauce to a bowl and refrigerate for at least a couple of hours (or overnight) before serving.
Keyword Cranberry Sauce Recipe

FAQ

What are the ingredients for homemade cranberry sauce?

The ingredients for cranberry sauce include granulated sugar, water, orange juice, and fresh cranberries. You can also add ground cinnamon for extra flavor.

How do you make cranberry sauce from scratch?

To make an easy homemade cranberry sauce, you’ll need 100g of light muscovado sugar, 100ml of orange juice, and 250g of fresh or frozen cranberries. In a pan, bring the sugar and orange juice to a boil. Stir in the cranberries and simmer until tender. The sauce will thicken as it cools and can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.

What can I serve cranberry sauce with?

Cranberry sauce is a versatile condiment that pairs well with a variety of dishes. It is a classic accompaniment to turkey but can also be served with other meats like beef or ham. This holiday cranberry sauce adds a festive touch to any meal. You can serve it alongside traditional side dishes like sweet potato casserole, green beans, or stuffing.

How can I customize my cranberry sauce?

There are several ways to add a festive twist to your cranberry sauce. You can try adding blanched strips of orange zest for a Cumberland sauce-style twist or spice it up with ginger or chili. A splash of port can also add a kick to the sauce. Get creative and experiment with different additions to find your perfect homemade cranberry sauce recipe.

Why should I make my own cranberry sauce?

Homemade cranberry sauce is a delicious addition to any holiday meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a festive and flavorful sauce that will elevate your dishes. Whether you prefer a classic recipe or want to add your twist, making your own cranberry sauce allows you to customize it to your taste.

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