This cranberry sauce is a bright and tangy addition to your holiday table! With fresh berries, a hint of orange, and just the right amount of sweetness, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
I love making this sauce because it’s super easy and brings a pop of color to my meals. Plus, it pairs perfectly with turkey, making every bite feel festive! 🌟
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh is best for a vibrant flavor. If they’re not available, frozen cranberries work well too! Just rinse them before use. You can even use dried cranberries, but the sauce will be less tart.
Sugar: I use granulated sugar for sweetness, but you can substitute with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor. Just adjust to taste, as these are sweeter than sugar.
Orange Juice & Zest: Fresh juice adds brightness! If you don’t have oranges, bottled juice will do—just aim for 100% juice without added sugar. Lemon juice is a nice swap but will change the flavor a bit.
Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth. However, if you’re not a fan or don’t have them, feel free to skip or just use one. You can also try a pinch of ginger for a different twist!
How Do I Ensure My Cranberry Sauce Turns Out Perfectly?
The trick to a great cranberry sauce is in the cooking. Start by simmering the cranberries gently. Avoid high heat, so they don’t burst too quickly, as this can make your sauce too watery. Here’s how to nail it:
- Rinse your cranberries and check for bad ones. Then, once in your saucepan, keep an eye on them to ensure even cooking.
- Use medium-low heat and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You’ll know it’s done when most cranberries have popped and the sauce thickens.
- Let it cool completely before serving! This is crucial for perfect thickness!
With these simple tips, you’ll have a beautiful, homemade cranberry sauce that will impress everyone at the table!
Joanna Gaines Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (about 3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Sprig of fresh rosemary or extra orange zest for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cranberry sauce takes about 15 minutes of preparation and cooking time. Plus, you’ll want to let it cool for about 30 minutes before serving, making it an easy side dish to whip up ahead of your holiday gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cranberries:
Start by rinsing your fresh cranberries thoroughly under cold water. Pick out any that are squished or spoiled, as you want only the best berries for your sauce.
2. Make the Sugar Mixture:
In a medium saucepan, combine the water, sugar, and orange zest. Heat over medium until the mixture comes to a boil, stirring gently until the sugar fully dissolves.
3. Cook the Cranberries:
Add the cranberries to the boiling mixture. Bring everything back to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes. You’ll see the cranberries start to pop and the sauce will thicken up nicely.
4. Add Flavor:
Once the cranberries are soft, stir in the fresh orange juice along with the cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract if you’re using them. Let this simmer for another 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors together.
5. Let it Cool:
Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the cranberry sauce to cool. Keep in mind that it will thicken even more as it cools!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer your cranberry sauce into a serving bowl. For a festive touch, garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary or a bit of extra orange zest. It’s perfect to serve chilled or at room temperature alongside your holiday turkey or any meal.
This homemade cranberry sauce is a simple yet delightful addition to your holiday table!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work perfectly in this recipe. Just rinse them under cold water before using, and they’ll cook up just as well as fresh ones.
How Do I Store Leftover Cranberry Sauce?
Store any leftover cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to use it.
Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
Yes, you can definitely adjust the sweetness! Start with the suggested amount of sugar, but taste the sauce as it cooks. You can add more sugar or reduce it to your preference at any point before the sauce cools.
What Can I Use Instead of Orange Juice?
If you don’t have orange juice, you can substitute it with cranberry juice or apple juice for a different flavor profile. Lemon juice is another option, but it will make the sauce tangier!
