I was older than I want to admit when I discovered that Cranberry Sauce doesn't have to come from a can...
Are you a fan of cranberry sauce with your turkey dinner? I've always liked cranberry sauce, even from the can, with my turkey dinner and on its own by the spoonful, so I was excited to learn that it was something that could be made from scratch. Since the canned stuff has SO MUCH sugar in it, I wanted a recipe that could be a bit healthier so that I would feel good about it being on my dinner plate.
As it turns out, it only takes about 20 minutes to make and is mostly hands off. And it keeps well in the fridge for at least a week and freezes nicely.
And if you want to eat cranberries for dessert, be sure to try this delicious Cranberry Crisp!
The Ingredients
- Cranberries- Fresh or frozen cranberries will work. No need to thaw if using frozen.
- Orange Juice- Make sure to use pure orange juice without any added sugar.
- Maple Syrup- Honey would also work! As written, this recipe is a bit on the tart side, which is how I like it but feel free to add a bit more at the end to suit your tastes.
- Cinnamon
- Cloves- Feel free to leave it out if you don't have any on hand.
- Sea Salt
The Method
- Place all of the ingredients in a saucepan.
- Simmer until thickened.
- Enjoy!
Leftover Storage
This is a great recipe to make ahead! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
How to Enjoy This Cranberry Sauce
I have plenty of ideas!
- With your turkey dinner of course
- With Swedish Meatballs
- Spread on toast as your jam
- Use it as the "J" on a PB and J (one of my favorites!)
- In a Turkey, Cranberry and Brie Panini
- Spooned over ice cream
- On top of a cheesecake
- With a baked brie
- Straight from the spoon
Dietary Notes
If you have dietary restrictions, check the packaging of specific ingredients that you use to ensure they are compliant. This recipe is:
- Dairy Free
- Gluten Free
- Nut Free
- Paleo
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
And if you liked this recipe...
...you might also like these other homemade sauces!
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries (1 bag)
- 1 cup pure orange juice
- ¼ cup maple syrup or honey
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon cloves
- pinch fine sea salt
Instructions
- Combine all of the ingredients in a sauce pan and place over medium heat.
- Simmer and cook until thickened to desired consistency, stirring often and breaking up the cranberries with the spoon.
- Allow to cool and serve.
Sandy
My first time making cranberry sauce, it was so easy to follow this recipe and so good .