Side Dishes > Holiday Side Dishes > Thanksgiving Sides > Cranberry Sauce Recipe (Homemade)

Classic Homemade Cranberry Sauce

This cranberry sauce recipe is a Thanksgiving and holiday essential. It's sweet, tart, and bursting with flavor. Made with fresh cranberries, orange zest, and a touch of warming spices, it's the perfect accompaniment to your holiday meal.

Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
15-20 minutes
Servings
6-8
Ingredients
  • 12 oz Fresh Cranberries
  • 1 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 1 cup Water
  • 1 tbsp Orange Zest
  • 1/4 cup Orange Juice
  • 1 Cinnamon Stick

Prepare the Cranberries

Rinse the fresh cranberries thoroughly under cold water and pick out any stems or bruised berries.

Combine Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, orange zest, orange juice, and cinnamon stick.

Simmer and Cook

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Then, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Cool and Store

Remove the saucepan from the heat and discard the cinnamon stick. Allow the cranberry sauce to cool completely. The sauce will thicken further as it cools. Transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

(Approximate values)

  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Sugar: 35g

Other Considerations for Nutrition

The nutritional content can vary slightly depending on the sweetness of the cranberries and the amount of sugar used. Consider reducing the sugar for a lower-calorie option.

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FAQ

  • Can I use frozen cranberries?

    Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. There is no need to thaw them first. Add them directly to the saucepan as directed in the recipe. The cooking time may need to be slightly adjusted.
  • Can I reduce the amount of sugar?

    Yes, you can reduce the sugar to your taste preference. Start with a smaller amount and add more as needed. Keep in mind that the sugar helps to balance the tartness of the cranberries.
  • How long does cranberry sauce last?

    Homemade cranberry sauce will last for up to a week in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.