Homemade Cranberry Sauce

Homemade Cranberry Sauce: A Sweet and Tangy Holiday Classic

Homemade cranberry sauce is a must-have for any holiday meal, adding a burst of sweet-tart flavor that perfectly complements roast meats, stuffing, and mashed potatoes. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this cranberry sauce is as easy to make as it is delicious. Elevate your holiday feast with this simple, flavorful sauce that can be made ahead of time, letting you focus on the main course!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple & Quick: Ready in just 15 minutes, this cranberry sauce is perfect for busy holiday cooking.
• Fresh & Flavorful: Made with fresh or frozen cranberries, it’s full of natural fruit flavor.
• Customizable: Add a hint of orange zest or cinnamon for a unique twist.

Recipe Overview

Makes: 6 Servings
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Calories: 100 per serving

Ingredients

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (240ml) water
• 12 ounces (340g) fresh or frozen cranberries

Optional:

• Zest of 1 orange
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. Make the Sugar Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
2. Cook the Cranberries: Add the cranberries to the saucepan and increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Simmer: Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened.
4. Cool & Thicken: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the sauce cool. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
5. Optional Add-ins: Stir in orange zest or cinnamon for extra flavor and aroma.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 100
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Sugar: 24g

Pro Tips for Perfect Cranberry Sauce

• Make Ahead: This cranberry sauce can be made a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it will stay fresh for up to a week.
• Customize the Flavor: Add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cloves for a warm, cozy note.
• Texture: For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the mixture after it’s cooled.

A Must-Have for Your Holiday Table

Homemade cranberry sauce is the perfect balance of sweet and tart, making it the ideal complement to savory holiday dishes. Whether you're preparing for a big family dinner or looking for a simple yet impressive side, this quick and easy recipe is sure to be a hit. Serve it alongside your favorite roast meats, stuffing, or mashed potatoes for a festive touch.

Make this cranberry sauce today and add a burst of flavor to your holiday meal!