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Cranberry Sauce from Scratch

Prep Time 30 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 5

Equipment

  • 1 Sauce Pan
  • Measuring Cups
  • 1 Wooden Spoon

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz (about 3 cups) fresh cranberries
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • Zest of 1 orange (optional)
  • 1/2 cup Juice of 1 orange (optional)
  • 1 Cinnamon stick or a pinch of ground cinnamon (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Cranberries: Rinse the cranberries under running water and discard any soft or mushy ones. Set aside.
  • Combine Ingredients in a Saucepan: In a medium saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
  • Add Cranberries and Flavorings: Add the cranberries to the saucepan. If using, add the orange zest, orange juice, and cinnamon at this point. Stir to combine.
  • Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the cranberries simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes. The cranberries will burst and the mixture will thicken.
  • Adjust Consistency and Flavor: Taste the cranberry sauce. If you prefer it sweeter, you can add more sugar to taste. If it's too tart, add a bit more sugar. For extra flavor, adjust by adding more orange zest, juice, or cinnamon, based on your preference.
  • Cool and Serve: Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency and flavor, remove it from the heat. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools. Transfer it to a bowl or airtight container and let it cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate until ready to serve.
  • Optional Step: If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the cranberry sauce once it has cooled slightly. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
  • Serve: Cranberry sauce can be served chilled or at room temperature alongside your favorite dishes, particularly with roasted meats like turkey, chicken, or as a spread on sandwiches.

Notes

This homemade cranberry sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for about a week. Feel free to adjust the sweetness and additional flavors according to your taste preferences. This is a great recipe to have at any holiday party or family dinner. 
 
 
 
Keyword carnberry sauce, cranberry, sauce