Description
Bright, tart, and infused with fresh orange zest, this cranberry sauce brings a burst of citrusy flavor to your holiday table. It’s quick to make, naturally beautiful, and a far cry from anything canned—perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas feasts.
Ingredients
2 (12 oz) bags fresh or frozen cranberries
1 cup orange juice (preferably freshly squeezed)
1 tablespoon orange zest
1¼ cups granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
Optional: ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional: ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves or nutmeg
Optional: 1–2 tablespoons maple syrup for added depth
Instructions
In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, sugar, and orange zest.
Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer.
Cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cranberries burst and mixture thickens.
Optional: Stir in cinnamon, cloves, or maple syrup once removed from heat.
Let cool to room temperature. Sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Flavor Twists:
Add chopped candied ginger for a spicy-sweet kick
Stir in a splash of bourbon or orange liqueur (like Grand Marnier) after cooking
Fold in pomegranate seeds or dried cherries for texture
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 2mg
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g