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Easy Cranberry Sauce

A fresh and vibrant cranberry sauce that elevates any holiday meal, easy to prepare and perfect for make-ahead convenience.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Condiment, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 110
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 12 ounces fresh cranberries, rinsed and picked over
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/2 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla or cinnamon (optional) For added warmth

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Combine cranberries, sugar, water, orange juice, orange zest, and salt in a medium saucepan.
  2. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat. Reduce to low and simmer, listening for the cranberries to pop while stirring occasionally.
  3. After about 10 minutes, the sauce should look glossy and jammy. Smash a few berries for texture.
  4. Adjust sweetness with more sugar if desired, and enhance flavor with more salt or fresh orange juice if it tastes flat.
  5. If using, stir in vanilla or cinnamon, then remove from heat, allowing the sauce to thicken as it cools.
  6. Let the sauce reach room temperature before serving.

Notes

This cranberry sauce can be prepared days in advance and stored in a sealed container in the fridge for 10-14 days. Freeze for up to 3 months. Consider adding a splash of bourbon for a grown-up twist. Give it at least an hour to set before serving for the best flavor and texture.