Homemade Cranberry Sauce

Name: Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1 cup sugar; 1 cup water; Zest of 1 orange; Juice of 1 orange

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Elevate your holiday gatherings with this delightful Homemade Cranberry Sauce. Bursting with fresh, tart cranberries and a hint of citrus, this easy recipe is the perfect complement to turkey, ham, or even as a spread for sandwiches. Whip up this vibrant sauce in just 20 minutes for a festive touch that will impress your guests and enhance your seasonal meals.

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2025-11-12T12:02:46.795Z

This homemade cranberry sauce is a cherished family recipe that has been passed down for generations. With a touch of orange zest and sugar, it creates the perfect balance between sweet and tart.

The Joy of Homemade Sauce

There’s something extraordinarily satisfying about creating your own sauces from scratch, especially during the holiday season. Homemade cranberry sauce not only brings a burst of flavor to your table, but it also fills your kitchen with unforgettable aromas. Simple to make yet impressive to serve, this sauce allows you to control the sweetness and texture to perfectly match your preferences. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, freeing you up to focus on the other dishes during your festive gatherings.

Using fresh cranberries ensures that you are serving a dish brimming with vibrant flavor and nutrition. Unlike store-bought alternatives that often contain preservatives and excess sugar, your homemade version can be tailored to fit your family’s taste and dietary needs. Fresh cranberries are rich in vitamin C, providing a delightful contrast to savory meats and making for a healthier holiday meal.

Perfect Pairings

This homemade cranberry sauce pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes. While it's classically served alongside turkey and ham, don't overlook its versatility. Consider offering it with roast beef or even grilled vegetables to add a zesty kick. The tanginess of the cranberries complements both rich meats and lighter fare, enhancing every bite and making your holiday spread feel complete.

Beyond the dinner table, think about using leftover cranberry sauce in creative ways. Spread it on sandwiches for a delicious twist, mix it into yogurt for a refreshing breakfast, or even use it as a topping for desserts like cheesecake or ice cream. The possibilities are endless, making this sauce not just a seasonal treat, but a staple for your kitchen.

Ingredients

Cranberry Sauce Ingredients

2 cups fresh cranberries
1 cup sugar
1 cup water
Zest of 1 orange
Juice of 1 orange

Enjoy this sauce as a side with your holiday meal or as a bright addition to your sandwiches!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Rinse the cranberries under cold water and remove any stems.

Cook the Cranberries

In a medium saucepan, combine water, sugar, and cranberries. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

Add Citrus

Once the cranberries start to burst, add the orange zest and juice. Stir well.

Simmer

Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes until it thickens.

Cool and Serve

Remove from heat and let it cool before serving. It will thicken even more as it cools.

Serve alongside your favorite holiday dishes!

Storage Tips

Homemade cranberry sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, making it an excellent make-ahead option for your holiday meals. Ensure it cools completely before transferring it to an airtight container; this will help maintain its freshness. For longer storage, you can freeze the sauce for up to two months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator the night before serving, and you'll have a vibrant relish ready to enhance your dishes.

When storing, it's best to keep the sauce away from strong-smelling foods in the fridge, as flavors can easily transfer. If you notice your sauce has thickened too much upon refrigeration, you can stir in a little water or orange juice to restore the desired consistency.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different flavors in your cranberry sauce recipe. Adding spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger can elevate the taste and provide a warm, festive twist. For a more tropical flair, consider incorporating diced pineapple or mango; their sweetness provides a delightful contrast to the tart cranberries.

If you enjoy a bit of a kick, try adding jalapeños or chipotle peppers for a savory, spicy version that pairs exceptionally well with meats. Whatever variations you choose, remember to balance sweet and tangy elements to create the perfect cranberry sauce that suits your holiday feast.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator.