Homemade Cranberry Sauce

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If you’re looking to elevate your holiday meals, homemade cranberry sauce is an absolute game changer! Forget the canned stuff; this vibrant and fresh sauce adds a pop of color and flavor to any feast.

Whether served alongside turkey, on a sandwich, or simply enjoyed on its own, the combination of tart cranberries and warm spices creates an unforgettable dish.

Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients.

Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s dive in!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Homemade cranberry sauce is not only delicious, but it’s also surprisingly quick to whip up.

You’ve probably had those dull, store-bought versions that lack depth and freshness.

This recipe uses just a handful of ingredients to produce a vibrant, flavorful sauce that’s bursting with fruity goodness.

The sweetness from the sugar perfectly balances the tartness of the cranberries, while the hint of vanilla and cinnamon brings warmth and complexity.

Plus, it makes your kitchen smell amazing while it’s cooking!

Ingredients

To make this delightful cranberry sauce, you will need the following ingredients:

• ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
• ¾ cup (180 ml) water
• 12 ounces (340 g) fresh cranberries, rinsed, or frozen cranberries
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

These simple ingredients come together to create a sauce that’s perfect for any occasion, from Thanksgiving to everyday dinners.

How To Make Homemade Cranberry Sauce

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients on the counter.

If you’re using fresh cranberries, rinse them under cool water to remove any debris.

Frozen cranberries can be used directly from the package—you don’t need to thaw them beforehand.

Step 2: Combine Sugar and Water

In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water.

Bring this mixture to a simmer over medium heat.

Stir occasionally until the sugar has completely dissolved.

This sweet syrup will help balance the tartness of the cranberries.

Step 3: Add Cranberries

Once the sugar has dissolved, add the cranberries to the saucepan.

Stir them into the syrup gently.

As they heat up, they’ll start to pop, releasing their juices and flavor.

Step 4: Cook the Sauce

Let the cranberries cook for about 10 minutes.

You’ll notice the sauce starting to thicken as the cranberries burst.

Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Add Flavor

Once the sauce has thickened and most of the cranberries have burst, remove it from the heat.

Stir in the pure vanilla extract and ground cinnamon.

The combination of these flavors will lift your sauce to a whole new level!

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Transfer the cranberry sauce to a bowl and let it cool at room temperature.

It will thicken more as it cools.

Once it’s at your desired temperature, serve it right away, or refrigerate it for later use.

Expert Tips

• For a smoother texture, mash the cranberries with a fork or potato masher before letting the sauce cool.
• If you prefer a sweeter sauce, feel free to adjust the sugar based on your taste!
• Make it ahead of time! This cranberry sauce can be made a few days in advance and stored in the fridge.
• For a little extra zing, add a splash of orange juice or zest to the mixture while it cooks.

Variations and Customizations

Want to take your cranberry sauce to the next level? Here are a few variations you can try:

• Add a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon for an additional warm spice.
• Mix in some diced apples or pears for extra sweetness and texture.
• Include chopped walnuts or pecans for a bit of crunch.
• Consider adding a splash of bourbon or rum after removing from heat for a sophisticated twist.

How to Store Leftovers

Storing any leftovers is super easy! Just place your cooled cranberry sauce in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator.

It will keep well for about 1 to 2 weeks.

This sauce is also freezer-friendly! If you’d like to save some for later, simply transfer it to a freezer-safe container, and it can last up to 3 months.

To use, thaw it overnight in the fridge and stir well before serving.

FAQ

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh ones?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work perfectly in this recipe.

There’s no need to thaw them; just add them straight into the pot.

How can I make my cranberry sauce less tart?

If you find the sauce too tart, simply add more sugar to taste.

You can also mix in sweeter fruits like apples or pears to balance out the flavors.

Can I make this cranberry sauce a few days in advance?

Yes! This sauce is great for make-ahead.

Just store it in the fridge, and the flavors will meld beautifully over time.

What should I serve with cranberry sauce?

Cranberry sauce pairs wonderfully with turkey, chicken, pork, and even on sandwiches.

It’s also delicious served over cream cheese with crackers for a quick appetizer!

Conclusion

There you have it—a simple, delicious recipe for homemade cranberry sauce that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

With its bright flavor and gorgeous color, it’s the perfect complement to any meal.

So the next time you’re planning a gathering, ditch the can and embrace the fresh, homemade goodness of cranberry sauce.

Your taste buds will thank you! Happy cooking!

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