why make this recipe
Cranberry sauce is a must-have for festive meals. It adds a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with roasted turkey and other holiday dishes. This Best Ever Cranberry Sauce is simple to make and full of fresh flavors. Using just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious sauce that will impress your family and friends. Plus, making it from scratch means you can enjoy it fresh and without any preservatives.
how to make Best Ever Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Directions:
- In a saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, orange juice, sugar, and cinnamon.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and let cool. The sauce will thicken further as it cools.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature alongside your holiday meals.
how to serve Best Ever Cranberry Sauce
Serve this cranberry sauce as a side dish with your holiday turkey or ham. It also makes a great topping for sandwiches or a refreshing addition to salads. You can serve it chilled or at room temperature, depending on your preference. This sauce pairs well with many dishes, bringing bright flavor and color to your plate.
how to store Best Ever Cranberry Sauce
To store leftover cranberry sauce, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about one week. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the sauce. Just pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion, and it can last for up to three months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.
tips to make Best Ever Cranberry Sauce
- Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor. Dried cranberries won’t give the same tartness.
- Be careful not to skip the simmering step as this is what helps to burst the cranberries, creating the perfect sauce consistency.
- Adjust the sugar to your taste, depending on how sweet or tart you like your sauce.
- You can also add a bit of orange zest for extra flavor.
variation
You can tweak this recipe by adding nuts like chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture. Some people also enjoy adding a splash of maple syrup for a rich sweetness or even a hint of ginger for warmth.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh ones?
A: Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking.
Q: Can I make the cranberry sauce ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! In fact, making it a few days in advance can enhance the flavors.
Q: Is it necessary to use orange juice?
A: Orange juice adds a nice citrus flavor, but you can substitute it with apple juice or leave it out for a more traditional taste.
Best Ever Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor.
- 1 cup orange juice Can be substituted with apple juice or omitted.
- 1 cup sugar Adjust to taste for sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon Adds warmth to the flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, orange juice, sugar, and cinnamon.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and let cool. The sauce will thicken further as it cools.