Homemade Cranberry Sauce

When it comes to holiday dinners, cranberry sauce is a classic side dish that brings a burst of tangy-sweet flavor to every bite. Skip the canned version this year and impress your guests with a fresh, homemade cranberry sauce. This recipe is quick, easy, and can be made ahead of time, giving you one less thing to worry about during the busy holiday season!

How to Make Homemade Cranberry Sauce

Making cranberry sauce from scratch couldn’t be easier. With just a handful of ingredients and about 15 minutes, you’ll have a beautiful, ruby-red sauce that’s perfectly sweet, slightly tart, and full of flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine fresh cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and water. Stir well.
2. Cook the Sauce: Heat the mixture over medium heat until it comes to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens (about 10 minutes).
3. Cool and Serve: Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. As it cools, it will thicken even more. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to use.

Ingredients

Variations

1. Cinnamon and Spice: Add a cinnamon stick and a pinch of nutmeg to the saucepan for a warm, spiced flavor.
2. Berry Mix: Mix in a handful of raspberries or blueberries for a unique twist.
3. Alcohol-Infused: Replace the water with a splash of red wine or brandy for a rich, grown-up flavor.
4. Nuts and Dried Fruit: Stir in chopped walnuts or dried apricots after the sauce has cooled for added texture.

Storage

• Refrigerator: Store homemade cranberry sauce in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Directions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Rinse the cranberries and measure the remaining ingredients.
2. Cook the Sauce: Follow the step-by-step instructions above to create your homemade cranberry sauce.
3. Serve and Enjoy: Pair with roasted turkey, ham, or even spread it on sandwiches. It’s also delicious as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or yogurt!

Homemade cranberry sauce is a simple yet impressive addition to your holiday spread. With its vibrant color and fresh flavor, it’s a side dish that everyone will love. Plus, the recipe is versatile, so you can easily adjust it to suit your taste.