Drunken cranberry sauce –Get ready to elevate your holiday dining experience with a delightful twist on a classic recipe: Drunken Cranberry Sauce! This scrumptious condiment combines the tartness of cranberries with the warmth of festive libations, making it a perfect addition to your holiday table. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a unique dish to bring to a gathering, this cranberry sauce is sure to impress everyone. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Drunken Cranberry Sauce
This Drunken Cranberry Sauce adds a splash of excitement to the traditional flavor profile, perfectly complementing your roast turkey or holiday ham. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make!

Ingredients
- 1 12-ounce bag fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup of your favorite liquor (like rum or bourbon)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and orange juice over medium heat. Stir until the sugar begins to dissolve and the cranberries start to pop.
- Add your choice of liquor (rum or bourbon work wonderfully) to the mixture, along with the cinnamon, nutmeg, and orange zest. Stir well to incorporate all flavors.
- Let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes. You’ll notice it thickening as the cranberries break down and the flavors meld together.
- If you’re using walnuts, stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking for an added crunch.
- Once the sauce reaches your desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool. It will thicken further as it cools.
- Transfer the Drunken Cranberry Sauce to a serving bowl and allow it to chill in the refrigerator until it’s time to serve.
This vibrant and flavorful sauce can be made ahead of time, giving you one less thing to worry about on the big day. Serve it alongside your traditional main dishes, and watch your guests rave about its unique flavors. Cheers to a festive season filled with warmth, good food, and unforgettable moments!