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Cranberry Sauce Recipe

Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce

This classic cranberry sauce recipe takes only 20 minutes to make and requires just 4 simple ingredients. Perfect for Thanksgiving dinner, this homemade version is far superior to canned sauce and can be made up to a week ahead of time.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 9 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 103
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup granulated sugar 200g
  • 1 cup water 250ml, can substitute with orange juice for extra flavor
  • 4 cups fresh or frozen cranberries one 12-ounce package
Optional Add-ins
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans optional
  • 1-2 teaspoons orange zest optional
  • 1/4 cup raisins or currants optional
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon optional

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Colander
  • Measuring Cups

Method
 

  1. Prepare the cranberries: Rinse fresh cranberries in cold water using a colander. Remove any damaged or soft berries. Pat them dry with paper towels.
  2. Make sugar syrup: Combine water and sugar in a medium saucepan. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat, stirring until sugar dissolves completely.
  3. Cook the cranberries: Add cranberries to the boiling syrup. Return to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until most cranberries burst open.
  4. Add flavoring: Stir in any optional ingredients like orange zest or chopped nuts during the last few minutes of cooking.
  5. Cool and thicken: Remove from heat and let cool completely at room temperature. Transfer to a bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. The sauce will thicken significantly as it cools.

Notes

Make-Ahead Tips: This cranberry sauce can be made up to 1 week before serving. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 6 months.
Flavor Variations: Try substituting half the water with orange juice, or add warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for a festive twist.
Serving Suggestions: Perfect with turkey, ham, or as a spread for leftover turkey sandwiches. Also great on cheese boards or stirred into yogurt.