Cranberry Sauce

When it comes to Thanksgiving or Christmas, few side dishes are as iconic—or as simple to make—as cranberry sauce. Bright, tart, and slightly sweet, it’s the perfect complement to roasted turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes. While store-bought jars are convenient, making your own cranberry sauce is easier than you might think—and the flavor is unbeatable.

This easy 15-minute cranberry sauce requires just four main ingredients: fresh cranberries, orange juice, sugar, and maple syrup. A touch of orange peel can also be added to elevate the flavor, giving your holiday table a fresh and vibrant note. In less than 20 minutes, you’ll have a glossy, flavorful sauce that bursts with bright fruitiness, making it a must-have for any festive feast.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is fool-proof, adaptable, and endlessly satisfying. Let’s dive into why this cranberry sauce is the ultimate holiday side.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for last-minute prep.
• Minimal ingredients: Uses only real, whole ingredients for natural flavor.
• Bright and tangy: Fresh cranberries and orange juice provide vibrant, tart notes.
• Naturally sweetened: Maple syrup balances tartness without overpowering the berries.
• Make-ahead friendly: Can be chilled for hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
• Perfectly versatile: Works with turkey, chicken, pork, or as a spread on toast.

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. All measurements are exact.

Main Ingredients

• 12 ounces fresh cranberries (1 bag)
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup

Optional Flavor Enhancer

• Orange peel, for brightness and added citrus aroma

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Medium-size saucepan
• Wooden spoon or heat-safe spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Zester or vegetable peeler (if using orange peel)
• Bowl for chilling

These simple tools ensure quick prep and easy cleanup.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these clear steps for a perfect, glossy cranberry sauce every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Base

1. Combine 1 cup sugar and 1 cup orange juice in a medium-size saucepan.
2. Place over medium heat and cook until it begins to simmer. This helps dissolve the sugar completely and infuses the orange juice flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Cranberries

1. Add 12 ounces fresh cranberries to the simmering mixture.
2. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently. You’ll notice the cranberries begin to pop, releasing their natural juices.
3. For extra flavor, you can add a small piece of orange peel at this stage.

Step 3: Add Maple Syrup

1. Remove the saucepan from heat.
2. Stir in 1 tablespoon maple syrup to balance the tartness with subtle sweetness.

Step 4: Cool and Chill

1. Allow the cranberry sauce to cool for 30 minutes at room temperature.
2. Transfer to a bowl and chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve. This helps the sauce thicken and the flavors to meld beautifully.

Tips & Variations

Tips for Perfect Cranberry Sauce

• Use fresh cranberries: They provide the best texture and flavor. Frozen cranberries can be used, but cook an extra 1–2 minutes until they release their juices.
• Do not overcook: Overcooked cranberries can turn mushy; aim for a sauce that’s thick but still has some berry texture.
• Sweetness balance: Taste before adding maple syrup. Depending on the tartness of your cranberries, you may adjust slightly.
• Orange peel addition: Adds aromatic citrus notes without overpowering the sauce. Remove peel before serving if desired.

Variations

• Spiced Cranberry Sauce: Add ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg for a warm holiday flavor.
• Ginger Cranberry Sauce: Stir in 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger during cooking for a subtle zing.
• Apple Cranberry Sauce: Add ½ cup finely chopped apple for a chunky, fruity texture.
• Boozy Cranberry Sauce: Stir in 1–2 tablespoons of bourbon or brandy after cooking for a festive adult twist.

Flavor Profile

This cranberry sauce balances tartness and sweetness with a bright citrus note. The fresh cranberries provide natural tartness, while orange juice adds a sweet, tangy background. Maple syrup rounds out the flavor with a warm, rich sweetness. Optional orange peel infuses the sauce with aromatic brightness, making it both fresh and vibrant.

The texture is glossy and thick, with a mix of smooth sauce and burst cranberries that create a delightful contrast. It’s the perfect companion for holiday meats or a spreadable condiment for breads and appetizers.

Nutritional Overview

Per serving (approximate):

• Calories: 234 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 60 g
• Protein: 0.4 g
• Fat: 0.3 g
• Saturated Fat: 0.01 g
• Fiber: 0.1 g
• Sugar: 58 g
• Sodium: 2 mg
• Vitamin C: 31 mg
• Calcium: 13 mg
• Iron: 0.2 mg

This cranberry sauce is naturally low in fat and provides a good source of vitamin C.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prepare in advance: Cranberry sauce can be made up to 2–3 days ahead. Chilling allows flavors to deepen.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• Freezing: Cranberry sauce freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Batch cooking: Make multiple batches for larger gatherings or holiday prep.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes. Frozen cranberries work well; just cook 1–2 minutes longer until they pop and release juice.

2. Can I make this sugar-free?
Yes. Substitute sugar with your preferred sugar alternative, like erythritol or stevia, and adjust sweetness to taste.

3. Can I add other fruits?
Absolutely! Chopped apples, pears, or pomegranate seeds add texture and flavor.

4. How do I know when cranberries are done?
When most cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly, it’s ready.

5. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare 1–2 days in advance; chilling enhances the flavor.

6. Can I use fresh-squeezed orange juice?
Yes. Fresh juice provides a brighter, fresher flavor than store-bought.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Step	Time
Prep ingredients	5 min
Simmer sugar and orange juice	2–3 min
Cook cranberries	10 min
Stir in maple syrup	1 min
Cool and chill	30 min
Total Time	15–20 min active, 30 min chill

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside roast turkey or chicken for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.
• Pair with stuffing, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
• Use as a topping for baked brie, toast, or bagels.
• Add to sandwiches or wraps for a tangy, sweet layer.

Recipe Variations

1. Spiced Holiday Cranberry Sauce: Cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice for warmth.
2. Citrus Cranberry Sauce: Add lime or lemon zest for additional brightness.
3. Chunky Fruit Cranberry Sauce: Mix in diced apples or pears for texture.
4. Alcohol-Infused Cranberry Sauce: Stir in bourbon, brandy, or port for a festive touch.

Ingredient Spotlight

Cranberries

Cranberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C. Choose firm, bright-red berries for best results. Store fresh cranberries in the fridge for up to 2–3 weeks.

Maple Syrup

Pure maple syrup adds natural sweetness and depth of flavor. Avoid imitation syrups, which can taste overly artificial.

Orange Juice

Freshly squeezed orange juice brightens the sauce and balances tartness. Store-bought juice works, but fresh juice enhances aroma.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Stir frequently while cooking cranberries to prevent sticking.
• Simmer gently to avoid crushing berries completely; some whole berries add texture.
• Taste and adjust sugar or maple syrup according to berry tartness.
• Remove orange peel before serving if you prefer a smooth sauce without bitterness.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigeration: Store in a sealed container for up to one week.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain texture.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Estimate
Calories	234 kcal
Carbohydrates	60 g
Protein	0.4 g
Fat	0.3 g
Fiber	0.1 g
Sugar	58 g
Sodium	2 mg
Vitamin C	31 mg
Dietary Notes	Vegetarian, gluten-free, nut-free

Expanded Conclusion

This easy 15-minute cranberry sauce is a holiday game-changer. With only four ingredients, it delivers bold flavor, vibrant color, and a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. It’s quick enough for last-minute prep but also elegant enough for holiday entertaining.

Whether you’re hosting a large family dinner or enjoying a cozy meal, this cranberry sauce adds freshness and depth to every dish. Make it ahead, chill it, and enjoy the rich, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors with your favorite festive meals. Once you try this recipe, store-bought cranberry sauce will be a thing of the past.

Celebrate the holidays with this classic, fresh, and flavorful side—your Thanksgiving or Christmas table will never be the same!

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