When the holidays roll around, having a homemade cranberry sauce on your table is a quick, rewarding task. With this recipe, you’ll simplify Thanksgiving prep without compromising on taste. Fresh cranberries, a touch of orange zest, and honey are all you need for this 15-minute dish.
- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 8
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and simple, ideal for busy holiday schedules.
- Uses straightforward ingredients available at any grocery store.
- Customizable sweetness for personalized flavor.
- Fresh and vibrant contrast to rich holiday meals.
Ingredients
- 1 (12 oz.) bag fresh cranberries (or frozen, thawed): Provides the base of the sauce; both fresh and thawed frozen cranberries work perfectly.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cranberries which are naturally quite tart; adjust to taste.
- 1 orange (zested): Adds aromatic citrus notes; zest only the outer skin to avoid bitterness.
- 2 tablespoons water: Helps to dissolve the sugar and cook the cranberries evenly.
- 1-2 tablespoons honey (as needed): Natural sweetener; adjust based on personal preference and cranberry tartness.
How to Make It
Step 1: Initiate the Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, granulated sugar, orange zest, and water. Set over medium heat. The sugar dissolves as the mixture heats up, setting the stage for the cranberries to soften and release their juices.
Step 2: Simmer Until Perfect
Bring to a boil, then lower the heat to medium-low. Simmer for about 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cranberries start to pop and the sauce begins to thicken. This step ensures the cranberries absorb the flavors, creating a well-rounded taste.
Step 3: Sweeten to Your Liking
Taste the sauce and incorporate honey to adjust the sweetness. If you prefer a more traditional flavor, additional granulated sugar can be used. Ensure the sweetness balances the cranberry’s natural tartness without overpowering.
Step 4: Check Consistency
If the sauce seems too thick, incorporate some freshly squeezed orange juice or water. Remember, it will thicken as it cools, so aim for a slightly thinner consistency when warm.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature, letting it rest and set. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate to use later. Cranberry sauce can be made ahead of time, adding convenience to your holiday preparations.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make cranberry sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this cranberry sauce up to a week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors deepen over time, offering a more robust taste.
What if I don’t have fresh or frozen cranberries?
If fresh or frozen cranberries are unavailable, canned whole cranberries can be a substitute, but skip reducing them as they’re already cooked. Just mix with the zest and adjust sweetness to taste.
How can I adjust the sweetness of my sauce?
Sweetness can be adjusted by adding more honey or sugar incrementally. Taste as you go to reach your preferred level. Remember, the sweetness you set while warm will remain when served cold.
