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–+ servings
Homemade cranberry sauce in a serving dish garnished with fresh cranberries

Homemade Cranberry Sauce

A simple and versatile homemade cranberry sauce, enriched with orange zest, perfect for festive meals and various dishes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Condiment, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 90
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 12 oz fresh cranberries (or frozen, if you can’t find fresh)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (can substitute with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener)
  • 1 cup water (or swap half for orange juice for a citrus kick)
  • 1 tsp Zest of 1 orange (adds vibrancy; optional) Optional ingredient to enhance flavor
  • 1 pinch salt To enhance flavors

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Rinse the cranberries under cool water, inspecting for any bad ones.
  2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the water and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer and add the cranberries.
  4. Let them boil for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until cranberries pop open.
  5. Add the orange zest and a pinch of salt, stir to blend, and remove from heat.
  6. Transfer the sauce to a bowl; it will thicken as it cools.
  7. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed, then let it sit to cool completely.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 90kcalCarbohydrates: 24gSodium: 1mgFiber: 2gSugar: 20g

Notes

Try adding cinnamon or ginger for spice, or nuts for crunch. This sauce can also be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to two weeks.

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