Classic Cranberry Sauce Recipe
This Classic Cranberry Sauce recipe delivers a simple, sweet-tart accompaniment perfect for holiday meals or any time you want a refreshing fruit condiment. Made from fresh or frozen cranberries simmered with sugar and water, and optionally enhanced with orange zest and cinnamon, it’s easy to prepare and full of vibrant flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: About 1 ½ cups
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Primary Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup water
Optional Flavorings
- Zest of 1 orange (optional)
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Combine: In a medium saucepan, stir together the cranberries, granulated sugar, and water to evenly mix the ingredients.
- Boil: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low and allow the sauce to simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You will notice the cranberries bursting, which releases their natural pectin and thickens the sauce. It should coat the back of a spoon when ready.
- Flavor Boost: Remove the saucepan from heat. If desired, stir in the orange zest and ground cinnamon to add a bright, aromatic dimension to the sauce.
- Cool: Transfer the cranberry sauce to a bowl. Let it cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating. Chill until ready to serve, allowing flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken further.
Notes
- You can adjust the sugar amount for sweeter or tarter sauce according to taste preference.
- Fresh or frozen cranberries both work well; no need to thaw frozen cranberries before cooking.
- Orange zest adds a citrusy brightness, while cinnamon provides warm spiced notes—both optional but recommended for depth of flavor.
- Store cranberry sauce covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature as a condiment for poultry, pork, or vegetarian dishes.
Find it online: https://oliviabakes.com/classic-cranberry-sauce-recipe/
