Description
This Easy Cranberry Sauce recipe is a quick and simple way to make a classic holiday condiment using fresh or frozen cranberries, sugar, and water. With optional orange zest and juice, it adds a delightful citrus twist to the tangy sauce, perfect for complementing festive meals or sandwiches.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 bag (12 oz) fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 tsp orange zest (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh orange juice (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add the cranberries, granulated sugar, and water, ensuring the ingredients are evenly mixed before heating.
- Boil Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, allowing the sugar to fully dissolve and the cranberries to begin softening.
- Simmer Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally while the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens to a jam-like consistency.
- Add Orange Flavor: Stir in the optional orange zest and fresh orange juice to give the sauce a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Cool Sauce: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the cranberry sauce to cool to room temperature. It will continue to thicken as it cools down.
- Refrigerate: Transfer the sauce to a serving dish or airtight container and refrigerate until ready to serve, ideally for at least a few hours to enhance flavors.
Notes
- Using frozen cranberries is convenient and works equally well as fresh cranberries.
- The sauce will thicken further as it cools; adjust simmering time if a thicker or thinner consistency is desired.
- Add orange zest and juice for a subtle citrus flavor, but these are optional.
- Store leftover cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- This sauce pairs wonderfully with turkey, chicken, or as a spread on sandwiches.
