Description
This Classic Cranberry Sauce with Orange Juice combines the tart brightness of fresh cranberries with the natural sweetness of citrus, creating a vibrant, tangy-sweet condiment ready in just 20 minutes. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any holiday table, this homemade cranberry sauce transforms ordinary meals into extraordinary celebrations.
Ingredients
Scale
- Essential Components:
- 12 oz fresh cranberries (firm, shiny, and ruby-red)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (or substitute coconut sugar or pure maple syrup)
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (from 2–3 medium oranges)
- Optional Flavor Enhancers:
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 cinnamon stick, or a few whole cloves or star anise
- ¼ cup Grand Marnier, Cointreau, or bourbon
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, and orange juice. Add orange zest and spices if using.
- Bring to Boil: Place over medium-high heat and bring to a rolling boil, stirring occasionally until sugar begins to dissolve.
- Simmer and Pop: Reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cranberries pop and mixture thickens slightly.
- Cool and Set: Remove from heat and transfer to a heat-proof bowl. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to thicken.
Notes
Cranberry sauce thickens significantly as it cools. Avoid overcooking to preserve bright color and flavor. Add a splash of orange liqueur or grated ginger for extra sophistication.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Sauce, Thanksgiving, Holiday
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 0g
Keywords: cranberry sauce, orange cranberry sauce, thanksgiving sauce, homemade cranberry, holiday condiments