This bright and zesty cranberry sauce is a perfect mix of tangy cranberries, warm cinnamon, and fresh orange juice. It adds a festive touch to any meal!
Trust me, it’s so good you’ll want to serve it with everything. I love using it on turkey or even on my morning toast—yum! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are ideal for this recipe as they provide the perfect tartness. If fresh cranberries are unavailable, you can use frozen ones. Just remember not to thaw them before cooking.
Sugar: I typically use granulated sugar for sweetness, but feel free to swap it with brown sugar for a richer flavor. You can also use honey or maple syrup, but adjust the quantity to your taste since they are sweeter.
Orange Juice and Zest: I love freshly squeezed orange juice for a bright flavor. If you’re in a pinch, bottled orange juice works too, but the zest won’t have the same zing. Lemon juice can work as a substitute if you want a different citrus twist.
Cinnamon Stick: While a cinnamon stick looks pretty, you could also use ground cinnamon (about 1/2 teaspoon) if that’s what you have on hand. Just add it in with the cranberries.
How Do I Ensure the Cranberries Cook Perfectly?
Cooking cranberries can be a bit tricky, but with these tips, you’ll have an amazing sauce! Start by rinsing the cranberries and removing any that are soft. This helps get rid of any bitterness. Then, when you boil them, keep an eye on the heat.
- Cook the mixture until it reaches a gentle boil—it’ll help the cranberries burst.
- Once simmering, stir occasionally and keep it on low heat. This prevents burning.
- Watch for changes; when cranberries burst and the sauce thickens, you’re on the right track!
How to Make Orange Cinnamon Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 1 large orange)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cinnamon stick
- Optional: 1 tsp pure vanilla extract for added depth
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious cranberry sauce will take approximately 20-25 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes getting everything mixed together and then about 10-15 minutes on the stove simmering. Plus, it needs a little time to cool down afterwards!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cranberries:
Begin by rinsing the fresh cranberries under cold water. As you do this, take a moment to pick out any berries that are soft or damaged. This will help ensure you have the best flavor in your sauce!
2. Mix the Base:
In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, water, freshly squeezed orange juice, and the zest of one orange. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir the mixture until the sugar fully dissolves. This creates a sweet and citrusy base for your sauce!
3. Add the Cranberries and Cinnamon:
Now, it’s time to add the rinsed cranberries and the cinnamon stick into the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, which helps burst the cranberries and release their delicious juices.
4. Simmer the Sauce:
Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low. Allow the mixture to simmer while you stir occasionally. Keep simmering until most of the cranberries have burst and the sauce thickens up, which should take about 10-15 minutes.
5. Finish it Up:
After simmering, remove the saucepan from heat. Take out the cinnamon stick, and if you want, stir in the vanilla extract for an extra flavor boost. Let the sauce cool down to room temperature—it will thicken even more as it cools!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooled, transfer your bright and aromatic cranberry sauce to a serving dish. You can garnish it with an extra cinnamon stick and a slice of orange for a lovely presentation. Serve it chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy it as a delightful side with turkey, chicken, or even as a sweet spread!
This recipe not only brings a festive touch to your table but also combines tangy, sweet, and spicy flavors that are sure to impress everyone!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just fine. There’s no need to thaw them before using; just toss them directly into the pot along with the other ingredients. Keep in mind the cooking time may be slightly longer as they will need extra time to heat through.
What Should I Do if the Sauce Is Too Runny?
If your sauce turns out too runny, don’t worry! Simmer it over low heat for a few more minutes. This allows more liquid to evaporate and the sauce to thicken. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
How Can I Store Leftover Cranberry Sauce?
Store any leftover cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the fridge. It should keep well for up to 1 week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months; just thaw it in the fridge before serving.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, this sauce is perfect for making ahead of time! You can prepare it up to a few days in advance. Just store it in the fridge, and it will still taste wonderful when you serve it!