Description
Homemade Cranberry-Orange Sauce bursts with tart cranberries, bright citrus, and just the right sweetness—perfect for holidays and beyond.
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup orange juice (fresh-squeezed preferred)
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- Optional: 1 cinnamon stick
Instructions
- Rinse cranberries and discard any stems or soft berries. Zest and juice the orange.
- In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, sugar, water, and cinnamon stick (if using).
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Cook for 10–12 minutes, until cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or add a splash of lemon if needed. Remove from heat and discard cinnamon stick. Let cool for at least 30 minutes to thicken.
- Transfer to a bowl or container. Serve warm, room temperature, or chilled.
Notes
- Make ahead up to a week in advance and refrigerate in an airtight container.
- Freeze up to 3 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
- Use leftovers on toast, yogurt, or as a dessert topping.
- Add spices like clove or star anise for deeper flavor variations.
