When it comes to holiday meals, few side dishes can match the tangy, sweet goodness of homemade cranberry sauce. This easy cranberry sauce recipe is not only quick to prepare but also adds a vibrant, festive touch to any holiday spread. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Simple: Takes only 15 minutes to make.
- Fresh Ingredients: Uses whole cranberries for a natural taste.
- Versatile: Perfect for both holiday dinners and everyday meals.
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 (12-ounce) bag fresh or frozen cranberries
- Optional: Zest of 1 orange, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions
- Prepare the Cranberries: Rinse cranberries under cold water, discarding any that are soft or damaged.
- Boil Water and Sugar: In a medium saucepan, bring water and sugar to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Cook the Cranberries: Add cranberries to the saucepan. Return to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until most of the cranberries have burst.
- Add Optional Flavors: If using, stir in orange zest, cinnamon, and cloves. Simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
- Cool: Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. Sauce will thicken as it cools.
- Serve or Store: Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to a week.
Tips for the Perfect Cranberry Sauce
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add an extra 1/4 cup of sugar.
- Texture: For a smoother sauce, blend with an immersion blender after cooking.
- Add-Ins: Mix in chopped nuts, raisins, or other dried fruits for added texture and flavor.
Variations
- Orange Cranberry Sauce: Replace water with orange juice for a citrusy twist.
- Spiced Cranberry Sauce: Add 1/4 teaspoon each of ground nutmeg and allspice along with the cinnamon and cloves.
- Berry Mix: Combine cranberries with other berries like raspberries or blueberries for a mixed berry sauce.
Nutritional Benefits
- Rich in Antioxidants: Cranberries are packed with antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation.
- Vitamin C: High in vitamin C, supporting immune function.
- Low in Calories: A low-calorie addition to your meal, perfect for those watching their intake.
Serving Suggestions
- Main Course Pairing: Ideal with roasted turkey, chicken, or ham.
- Side Dishes: Complements mashed potatoes, stuffing, and green bean casserole.
- Dessert: Use as a topping for cheesecake, ice cream, or yogurt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can this cranberry sauce be made ahead of time? Yes, it can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Can I use frozen cranberries? Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh.
What if my sauce is too thick? If the sauce thickens too much, simply stir in a bit of water or orange juice until it reaches your desired consistency.
Reader Testimonials
“This cranberry sauce is so easy to make and tastes amazing. It’s a new holiday staple in our house!” – Jessica R.
“I love the added orange zest in this recipe. It really elevates the flavor!” – Michael B.
Conclusion
This easy cranberry sauce recipe is a must-have for your holiday menu. Its simplicity and fresh ingredients make it a standout dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of holiday favorites. By following this recipe, you can create a delicious, homemade cranberry sauce that will impress your guests and add a burst of flavor to your meal. Enjoy the process and savor the taste of this classic holiday treat!