This Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Sauce is a sweet and tangy treat, perfect for holidays or any cozy meal. The tart cranberries blend beautifully with sweet apples and a hint of warm cinnamon.
Trust me, your taste buds will dance with joy! I love serving it with turkey, toast, or even just by the spoonful. It’s that good! Plus, it’s super easy to make—just simmer and stir!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are key for this sauce. If fresh ones aren’t available, frozen cranberries work well too. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using.
Apple: I love using a sweet red apple like Fuji or Gala. However, you can opt for tart apples like Granny Smith if you want more tang in your sauce. The skin adds color and nutrients, but peeling is fine if you prefer.
Sugar: You can adjust the sugar to fit your sweetness preference. For a healthier option, consider using honey or maple syrup, but remember that honey might change the flavor slightly.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is essential for warmth. If you have a cinnamon stick, toss it in while cooking for a stronger flavor. You can also mix in a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for extra spice.
How Do I Get My Cranberries to Burst Perfectly?
The key to perfectly bursting cranberries lies in simmering them just right. When you cook cranberries, they begin to pop as they cook down, releasing juices and creating a lovely sauce.
- Start by combining water and sugar in a medium pot and bring to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, add the cranberries and apple. Keep stirring occasionally.
- After about 10-15 minutes of simmering, most cranberries will burst, resulting in a thick sauce.
Remember to keep an eye on the heat; if it’s too high, the sauce might stick to the bottom. Just stir and adjust as needed for the best results!
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Sauce:
- 12 oz fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
- 1 medium apple (such as a red apple, diced with peel on)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (plus 1-2 cinnamon sticks for garnish or simmering)
- 1 tsp lemon juice (optional, to brighten flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Sauce takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 25-30 minutes to have a delicious, homemade sauce ready for your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cranberries:
Start by rinsing the fresh cranberries under cold water. Look for any berries that are bruised or soft and discard them. We want only the freshest cranberries for our sauce!
2. Make the Base:
In a medium saucepan, combine the water and granulated sugar. Place the pan over medium heat and stir until the sugar is fully dissolved. This will create a sweet syrup that enhances the flavors of the sauce.
3. Combine Ingredients:
Add the rinsed cranberries, diced apple, ground cinnamon, and a cinnamon stick if you choose to use one. Stir everything together gently, making sure the fruit is evenly coated with the syrup.
4. Simmer the Sauce:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Keep an eye on it as the cranberries begin to burst and the sauce thickens, turning into a lovely jam-like consistency!
5. Finish It Up:
Once the cranberries are bursting and the flavors have melded beautifully, remove the pot from the heat. If you’re using lemon juice, stir it in now for an extra zing! Discard the cinnamon stick if used.
6. Chill and Serve:
Transfer the sauce to a bowl. Let it cool to room temperature, or refrigerate it for a few hours to serve chilled. It’s fantastic alongside turkey, pork, or as a tasty spread on toast!
7. Enjoy!
Your homemade Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Sauce is ready to be shared with friends and family. Enjoy the sweet, tangy flavors of this delightful dish!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones. Just make sure to thaw them completely before using, and drain any excess water to maintain the right consistency in your sauce.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
You can easily adjust the sweetness to your liking! Start with the 3/4 cup of sugar, and taste the sauce toward the end of cooking. If you prefer it sweeter, add a bit more sugar and stir until fully dissolved.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
This Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container, and it will keep for up to three months!
Can I Add Other Fruits or Spices?
Yes! Feel free to get creative. You can add fruits like orange zest, pineapple, or even raisins. For spices, nutmeg or ginger can add an extra layer of warmth and flavor. Just remember to keep it balanced to not overpower the cranberries!
