Description
Start your holiday table with a burst of flavor using this Classic Cranberry Sauce. Made with fresh cranberries, citrusy orange juice, and just the right amount of sweetness, it’s the perfect quick side for your Thanksgiving turkey or everyday chicken dinners. This easy recipe is done in just 15 minutes and stores well, making it one of those perfect make-ahead holiday dishes. Whether you’re searching for quick breakfast ideas, easy dinner sides, or a festive healthy snack, this cranberry sauce delivers on flavor and simplicity.
Ingredients
12 oz fresh cranberries
1 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup fresh orange juice
1/4 cup water
1 tsp orange zest
Instructions
1. In a medium saucepan, combine 12 oz of fresh cranberries, 1 cup of sugar, 3/4 cup of orange juice, 1/4 cup of water, and 1 tsp of orange zest.
2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir occasionally as the cranberries begin to pop.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens to your liking. Some cranberries will remain whole.
4. Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool. It will continue to thicken as it sits. Transfer to a serving dish or airtight container.
Notes
You can use frozen cranberries straight from the freezer; no thawing needed.
Sauce thickens more as it cools—don’t worry if it seems thin while hot.
For a spiced version, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg during simmering.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: classic cranberry sauce, holiday sides, easy recipe, Thanksgiving, cranberry recipes