Introduction

Making homemade cranberry sauce has always been a holiday tradition in my family, and over the years, it has become something we all look forward to. There’s something so special about the tangy sweetness of freshly made cranberry sauce that pairs perfectly with everything from turkey to mashed potatoes. After years of experimenting with different recipes, this version has become the go-to because it’s so simple, flavorful, and tastes like a true homemade treat. The orange juice, cinnamon, and vanilla add a unique twist, elevating the sauce beyond the typical cranberry sauce, while still maintaining that perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. My family can’t get enough of it, and I’m always happy to make a batch because it’s so easy to prepare and adds a fresh, vibrant touch to our holiday meals. If you’ve never made your own cranberry sauce before, I highly recommend trying this recipe. It’s a crowd-pleaser, and it’s a wonderful addition to any Thanksgiving or Christmas table.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Cranberry Sauce

This Homemade Cranberry Sauce recipe is everything you could want in a side dish: vibrant, sweet, tangy, and incredibly easy to make. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Simple Ingredients: With just a few basic ingredients—cranberries, orange juice, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla—this sauce comes together quickly and easily, yet it tastes so much better than store-bought versions.
Perfect Balance of Sweet and Tart: The combination of the tart cranberries, the sweet orange juice, and the warm cinnamon creates a delightful flavor that perfectly complements any holiday meal.
Customizable: If you prefer a smoother or chunkier sauce, you can easily adjust the texture by mashing the cranberries to your desired consistency.
No Preservatives: Homemade cranberry sauce is free from preservatives and artificial flavors, making it a fresher, healthier choice than the canned variety.
Versatile: Not just for Thanksgiving, this cranberry sauce is a perfect accompaniment to many dishes throughout the year, from roasted meats to desserts.

Ingredients

12 oz fresh cranberries, rinsed
1/4 cup water
3/4 cup pure orange juice
1 cup granulated sugar
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by rinsing the fresh cranberries thoroughly under cold water. Remove any stems or damaged berries. Then, gather the other ingredients: water, orange juice, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.

Step 2: Combine the Liquid Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, combine the water, orange juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Place the pan over medium-high heat and whisk the ingredients together until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture begins to come to a gentle boil.

Step 3: Add the Cranberries

Once the mixture is boiling, gently pour the fresh cranberries into the saucepan. Reduce the heat to a simmer, allowing the cranberries to cook for 10 to 12 minutes. Stir the sauce occasionally during this time. You’ll begin to hear the cranberries pop as they burst open, releasing their natural juices and flavors.

Step 4: Mash the Cranberries

Once most of the cranberries have popped, use a potato masher to gently mash the cranberries. You can control the texture here—mash the cranberries more if you prefer a smoother sauce, or leave some chunks if you want a more rustic texture. For an ultra-smooth cranberry sauce, you can blend the mixture using an immersion blender or transfer it to a regular blender to achieve a silky-smooth consistency.

Step 5: Simmer and Thicken

Allow the cranberry mixture to simmer for another 3 minutes to thicken. Then, remove the pan from the heat but leave it uncovered on the stove to cool for 20 to 30 minutes. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.

Step 6: Chill the Sauce

Transfer the cranberry sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate it for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight. Chilling the sauce will allow the flavors to meld together, creating a more intense and balanced taste. The cranberry sauce will also thicken further as it chills.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: Approximately 100 calories

Macronutrients per serving (approximate):

Carbohydrates: 26g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Sugar: 24g
Fiber: 1g

Note: These nutrition facts are estimates based on standard ingredients and may vary based on portion sizes and the exact ingredients used.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 6 hours (overnight for best results)
Total Time: Approximately 6 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)

How to Serve

Homemade cranberry sauce is an essential accompaniment to many holiday meals, but it can also be enjoyed year-round. Here are some ideas for serving it:

With Roasted Meats: Serve alongside turkey, chicken, or pork for a sweet and tangy contrast to savory dishes.
On Sandwiches: Spread a spoonful of cranberry sauce on sandwiches, especially turkey or chicken sandwiches, for an added burst of flavor.
As a Topping for Desserts: Try spooning it over cheesecake, vanilla ice cream, or a slice of chocolate cake for a sweet, fruity topping.
With Mashed Potatoes: Cranberry sauce is also a fantastic topping for creamy mashed potatoes, adding both color and flavor.
As a Dip: Serve it as a dip with crackers, pita, or a cheese platter for an easy appetizer.

Additional Tips

Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cranberry sauce, reduce the amount of sugar. You can also use a sugar substitute if desired.
Add Zest for Extra Flavor: For an extra burst of citrus flavor, add a teaspoon of orange zest to the sauce while it simmers.
Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños to the sauce if you like a little heat with your sweet.
Use a Blender for Smoother Sauce: If you prefer a smooth texture, use an immersion blender or transfer the sauce to a regular blender to blend it until smooth.
Storing: Store any leftover cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just be sure to thaw them before using them in the recipe.
Can I make this cranberry sauce ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, making it ahead of time is recommended as the flavors will deepen and meld the longer it sits.
Can I adjust the level of sweetness?
Absolutely. You can add more or less sugar based on your personal taste preferences.
How long can I store homemade cranberry sauce?
Store your cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Can I add alcohol to this cranberry sauce?
Yes, you can add a splash of brandy or rum to the sauce for an adult twist. Just add it after the sauce has finished cooking and let it simmer for a few more minutes.
Can I make this recipe with other fruits?
Yes, you can try adding other fruits, such as apple or pear, to the cranberry sauce for a unique flavor.
Can I use a sugar substitute?
Yes, feel free to substitute granulated sugar with your favorite sweetener, such as honey, maple syrup, or a low-calorie sugar substitute.
What’s the best way to serve this cranberry sauce?
It’s best served chilled, but you can also warm it slightly if you prefer it served warm. It’s delicious both ways!
Can I make the sauce smoother or chunkier?
Yes! Use a potato masher for a chunkier texture, or blend it for a smooth sauce.
Is this cranberry sauce vegan?
Yes, this cranberry sauce is vegan as it contains no animal products.

Conclusion

This Homemade Cranberry Sauce is the perfect way to elevate your holiday meals and beyond. With its bright, tangy flavor and simple ingredients, it’s a dish that’s easy to make yet brings so much flavor to the table. Whether you’re serving it at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just as a refreshing accompaniment to roasted meats, this cranberry sauce will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Make it ahead of time, adjust it to your taste, and enjoy the vibrant flavors of a homemade classic.