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Classic Cranberry Sauce Recipe

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4.9 from 5 reviews

This classic cranberry sauce recipe is a simple and flavorful holiday staple made from fresh or frozen cranberries sweetened with sugar and gently cooked to perfection. Enhanced with optional orange zest and cinnamon, it offers a tangy and slightly spicy complement to festive meals.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup water

Optional Flavorings

  • Zest of 1 orange
  • ¼ tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Combine: In a medium saucepan, stir together the cranberries, granulated sugar, and water until evenly mixed.
  2. Boil: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  3. Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  4. Flavor Boost: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the orange zest and ground cinnamon, if using, to add extra aroma and depth of flavor.
  5. Cool: Transfer the cranberry sauce to a bowl and let it cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating it until ready to serve.

Notes

  • Use fresh or frozen cranberries depending on the season and availability.
  • Adjust sugar quantity to taste, especially if you prefer a tart or sweeter sauce.
  • For a smoother sauce, blend partially after cooking.
  • Store leftover cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
  • Orange zest and cinnamon add warm undertones but can be omitted if preferred.