This homemade cranberry sauce is a festive treat! The bright orange and warm cinnamon give it a zesty, cozy twist that pairs perfectly with turkey and holiday meals.
Making this sauce is easy and fun. Plus, your kitchen will smell amazing while it’s cooking! I love serving it in a cute bowl—it adds a splash of color to my table! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are essential for this recipe, as they provide the tartness. If you can’t find fresh ones, frozen cranberries work well too. Just skip rinsing them when using frozen!
Granulated Sugar: While I use regular sugar, feel free to use brown sugar for a deeper flavor or a sugar substitute if you’re watching your sugar intake. Just check the conversion ratio, as some substitutes require less than regular sugar.
Orange Juice & Zest: Fresh orange juice brightens this sauce. If you don’t have fresh oranges, bottled juice can work, but fresh is best for flavor. Lemon juice can be a substitute for a different citrus kick!
Cinnamon Stick: Ground cinnamon can replace it, but be careful with the amount. Start with 1/4 teaspoon and adjust to taste since it can be stronger in flavor. I love using a stick for the subtle infusion as it simmers!
How Do I Ensure the Cranberries Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking cranberries properly is crucial for the right texture. Here are simple steps to follow:
- Start with rinsed and sorted cranberries to remove any bad ones.
- Begin cooking in a mix of water and sugar for sweetness. Stir often to prevent sticking.
- Simmer until burst—this usually takes 10-15 minutes. Watch closely; overcooking can turn them mushy!
- Let the sauce cool in the pan—it thickens more as it cools.
By paying attention to these steps, your cranberry sauce will turn out perfectly each time!
How to Make Orange Cinnamon Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) fresh cranberries
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (240 ml) water
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 cinnamon stick
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cranberry sauce will take about 25 minutes to prepare. This includes around 15 minutes of cooking and a little time for cooling. It’s a quick and simple recipe that showcases fresh ingredients beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse the Cranberries:
Start by rinsing the fresh cranberries under cold water. As you rinse, be sure to pick out any stems or damaged berries. We want only the good ones for our sauce!
2. Combine Ingredients in a Pan:
In a medium saucepan, mix together the water, granulated sugar, fresh orange juice, orange zest, and the cinnamon stick. Place the pan over medium heat and bring everything to a gentle boil. Stir occasionally to help dissolve the sugar completely.
3. Add the Cranberries:
Once your mixture is boiling, add the rinsed cranberries and a pinch of salt. This combination of sweet, tart, and a hint of salt is going to create a flavorful sauce. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer. The cranberries will start to pop!
4. Cook Until Thickened:
Keep an eye on the sauce as it simmers! Stir it occasionally for about 10-15 minutes. You want most of the cranberries to burst and the sauce to thicken a little. If it gets too thick, you can add a splash more water.
5. Finish Up:
Once done, remove the saucepan from heat and carefully discard the cinnamon stick. Let the sauce cool to room temperature. It will continue thickening as it cools!
6. Serve and Store:
Your cranberry sauce is ready to serve! You can enjoy it chilled or at room temperature, perfect for pairing with your favorite dishes. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
This Orange Cinnamon Cranberry Sauce is sure to become a cherished recipe at your holiday table!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries for This Recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen cranberries! Just add them directly to the pot without needing to thaw them first. You may need to cook them a little longer to ensure they’re fully broken down.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
If you prefer a sweeter sauce, simply add more sugar, starting with a tablespoon, and adjust to your taste. For a less sweet version, reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup and balance the flavors as needed.
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This cranberry sauce can be made up to a week in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it will be ready to serve whenever you need it.
What Foods Pair Well with Orange Cinnamon Cranberry Sauce?
This sauce is a fantastic complement to turkey, ham, or roast chicken. It also goes beautifully with cheese boards or as a spread on sandwiches. You can even drizzle it over desserts like ice cream or cheesecake for a fruity twist!
