Easy Cranberry Sauce
Perfect for holiday feasts or an everyday sweet-and-tangy treat, this Easy Cranberry Sauce recipe is a must-try! Made with just five simple ingredients—fresh or frozen cranberries, orange juice, granulated sugar, water, and a hint of orange zest—this sauce comes together in just 20 minutes with minimal effort. The optional addition of a cinnamon stick adds warm, spiced undertones, elevating its flavor profile. As the cranberries bubble and burst, they create a thick, vibrant sauce that balances tartness and sweetness beautifully. Serve it chilled or warm alongside turkey, ham, or any festive centerpiece. Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or anytime you crave a fresh, homemade twist to traditional cranberry sauce, this quick and easy recipe is a kitchen staple you'll make again and again!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries
- 0.75 cups granulated sugar
- 0.5 cups orange juice
- 0.5 cups water
- 1 teaspoon zest of an orange
- 1 piece cinnamon stick (optional)
Instructions
Rinse the cranberries under cold water and discard any that are soft or bruised.
In a medium saucepan, combine the orange juice, water, and sugar. Set over medium heat and stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely.
Add the cranberries, orange zest, and optional cinnamon stick to the saucepan.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
Remove the cinnamon stick (if used) and taste the sauce. Adjust sweetness by adding more sugar if desired.
Let the sauce cool to room temperature; it will thicken further as it cools.
Transfer to a serving dish or airtight container. Serve chilled, at room temperature, or slightly warmed, depending on your preference.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
793 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 0.8 g | 1% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 11 mg | 0% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 206.3 g | 75% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 14.1 g | 50% | |
| Total Sugars | 174.8 g | ||
| Protein | 2.5 g | 5% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 73 mg | 6% | |
| Iron | 1.1 mg | 6% | |
| Potassium | 512 mg | 11% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
