Simple Steps for Cooking Holiday Cranberry Sauce in Under 30 Minutes

Updated
2 min read

Holiday cranberry sauce –During the holiday season, few accompaniments can elevate a meal quite like a vibrant cranberry sauce. This Simple Holiday Cranberry Sauce recipe is not only easy to prepare but also brings a burst of flavor and color to your festive table. Homemade cranberry sauce offers a delightful contrast to roasted meats and is a perfect addition to sandwiches and cheese platters alike. Below, you will find a detailed guide for creating this timeless dish.

Simple Holiday Cranberry Sauce

This recipe harnesses the natural tartness of fresh cranberries, balanced with the sweetness of sugar and a hint of orange zest, making it a delightful blend that perfectly complements your holiday meals.

Simple Holiday Cranberry Sauce

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces of fresh cranberries
  • 1 cup of granulated sugar
  • 1 cup of water
  • 1 orange, zested and juiced
  • 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the fresh cranberries under cold water, discarding any that are soft or blemished.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine the water, sugar, and orange juice. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved.
  3. Add the cranberries to the saucepan and increase the heat to medium-high. Allow the mixture to come to a boil.
  4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. The cranberries will begin to pop, and the sauce will thicken. Cook for about 10-15 minutes until most of the cranberries have burst.
  5. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the orange zest and ground cinnamon, if using.
  6. Allow the sauce to cool at room temperature before transferring it to a serving dish or airtight container.
  7. Chill the cranberry sauce in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

This Simple Holiday Cranberry Sauce is a versatile recipe that can be customized to fit your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with additional spices or substitute the orange juice with apple cider for a different flavor profile. Serve it alongside your favorite holiday dishes, and enjoy the compliments from your guests!