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Homemade Cranberry Sauce Recipe - Easy Holiday Side Dish

This easiest cranberry sauce recipe delivers gourmet flavor with just 6 ingredients and 15 minutes of cook time. Fresh cranberries, citrus, and a hint of spice create the perfect holiday condiment that’s simple, quick, and far superior to store-bought versions.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2 cups (8 servings)
Course: Holiday Recipes, Sauces, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 95
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz fresh cranberries rinsed and picked over
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 tsp orange zest
  • 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1 cinnamon stick optional
  • Pinch of salt

Method
 

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves.
  2. Add cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, cinnamon stick (if using), and salt. Stir to combine.
  3. Bring mixture to a rolling boil until cranberries begin to pop.
  4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most cranberries have burst.
  5. Remove from heat, discard cinnamon stick, and let cool completely. Sauce will thicken as it cools.

Notes

Make ahead for stress-free holidays: prepare up to one week in advance and refrigerate. Cooling is essential for proper thickening.