Ultimate Cranberry Sauce Recipe: A Sweet, Tangy, and Citrusy Holiday Essential

This homemade cranberry sauce is the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and citrusy flavors, making it an essential addition to your holiday table. Made with fresh cranberries, orange juice, and apple cider, this sauce is packed with depth and natural sweetness, complementing roasted meats, stuffing, and other festive dishes.

-Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect Balance of Flavors – The sweetness from apple cider and orange juice balances the tart cranberries.

Fresh and Homemade – No canned sauce, just pure, natural ingredients.

Easy to Make – Simple, one-pot recipe ready in under 20 minutes.

Versatile – Great for turkey, ham, sandwiches, and even desserts.

-Ingredients

2 cups fresh cranberries

½ cup orange juice

½ cup apple cider

½ cup brown sugar

1 tsp orange zest

½ tsp cinnamon

¼ tsp salt

1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

-Instructions

1. Cook the Cranberries

In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, and apple cider over medium heat.

Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.

2. Add Sweetener and Spices

Stir in brown sugar, orange zest, cinnamon, and salt.

Continue cooking for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.

3. Adjust Consistency

If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or extra orange juice.

For a smoother texture, mash some of the cranberries with the back of a spoon.

4. Add the Final Touches

Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract for a rich, warm flavor.

Let cool slightly before serving. The sauce will thicken as it cools.

-Customizations and Variations

1. Spiced Cranberry Sauce

Add ¼ tsp nutmeg and a pinch of ground cloves for a warm holiday twist.

2. Maple Cranberry Sauce

Replace brown sugar with ¼ cup maple syrup for a natural sweetness.

3. Boozy Cranberry Sauce

Stir in 2 tbsp bourbon or Grand Marnier for extra depth.

4. Chunky vs. Smooth

For a chunkier sauce, leave whole cranberries intact.

For a smoother sauce, blend with an immersion blender.

-Storage and Serving Tips

How to Store:

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Reheat gently on the stove before serving.

Can You Freeze Cranberry Sauce?

Yes! Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months.

Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and stir well before serving.

-Best Ways to Serve Cranberry Sauce

✔ Classic Thanksgiving Dinner – A must-have alongside turkey and stuffing.
✔ Sandwiches & Wraps – Spread on turkey or ham sandwiches.
✔ Cheese Board Addition – Pairs well with brie, goat cheese, and crackers.
✔ Dessert Topping – Spoon over cheesecake, ice cream, or yogurt.
✔ Breakfast Pairing – Add to oatmeal, pancakes, or waffles.

-Final Thoughts

This Ultimate Cranberry Sauce is the easiest way to elevate your holiday meal with fresh, tangy, and citrusy flavors. Once you try this homemade version, you’ll never go back to store-bought!

Try this simple, foolproof recipe today and make your holiday table shine.

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