The moment you catch a whiff of freshly zested oranges mingling with tart cranberries, you’ll know you’re in for a treat. Imagine spoonfuls of vibrant red sauce glistening with citrusy goodness, ready to elevate your holiday feast or become the star of Sunday brunch. holiday dessert struffoli.
This Homemade Fresh Cranberry Orange Sauce Recipe is not just a side dish; it’s a celebration in a bowl! It brings warmth and cheer, reminiscent of cozy family gatherings filled with laughter and love. white chocolate cranberry treats You can almost hear Grandma’s laughter as she hands you the recipe, urging you to add just a pinch more zest. For more inspiration, check out this rosemary garlic white bean soup recipe.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This homemade cranberry orange sauce is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for last-minute holiday prep. Its refreshing flavor profile balances sweetness and tartness beautifully. Brightly colored and aromatic, it adds visual appeal to any dish. Use it as a condiment, dessert topping, or even in sandwiches for a delightful twist! [/info_box]
I still remember the first time I made this sauce at my cousin’s Thanksgiving dinner. Everyone was raving about it – even Uncle Bob, who usually only eats mashed potatoes. For more inspiration, check out this pumpkin wild rice soup recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Cranberries: Opt for bright red, firm cranberries; they should be plump and shiny for the best flavor.
Oranges: Choose juicy oranges that feel heavy for their size; they’ll provide zesty brightness.
Sugar: Granulated sugar works best here; adjust according to your taste preferences for sweetness.
Water: Just enough to help cook down the cranberries and create that luscious sauce consistency.
Cinnamon Stick: For warmth and spice; feel free to use ground cinnamon if that’s what you have on hand.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. gingerbread cheesecake cookies.
Let’s Make it Together
**Prep Your Ingredients**: Rinse the fresh cranberries under cold water and remove any stems or unripe berries. Zest one orange and then juice it until you have about half a cup of fresh juice.
**Combine Everything**: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, orange juice, zest, sugar, water, and cinnamon stick. Stir everything together until nicely mixed.
**Cook it Down**: Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil. As it heats up, keep an eye out for those delightful popping sounds as cranberries burst open! Cook for about 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
**Cool and Serve**: Once thickened, remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to a serving bowl. You can serve it warm or chilled; both options are delicious!
**Storage Tips**: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks – but let’s be honest; there probably won’t be any leftovers!
With every spoonful of this flavorful sauce drizzled over turkey or spread on toast, you’ll be reminded that some recipes come with cherished memories attached. Enjoy every tasty bite!
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] This Homemade Fresh Cranberry Orange Sauce Recipe is not just a festive delight; it’s a simple way to elevate your holiday meals. The tartness of cranberries paired with the sweetness of oranges creates a flavor explosion. Plus, your house will smell sensational while it’s cooking! [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by rinsing the cranberries thoroughly before cooking them in a saucepan with sugar and orange juice. Stir occasionally until they burst, creating a delightful sauce.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or ginger for a warm twist. You can also mix in chopped nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store your cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in short bursts in the microwave.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] To make the best Homemade Fresh Cranberry Orange Sauce, always use fresh cranberries for optimal flavor. Adjust sugar according to your taste preference, especially if you enjoy a tart finish. Don’t forget to let it chill before serving; it enhances the flavors beautifully! [/info_box]
I once brought this cranberry sauce to a family gathering, and it vanished faster than you could say “holiday cheer.” My cousin even asked if I had bottled some magic!
FAQ
What can I use instead of sugar in this recipe?
Try using honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener alternative. maple glazed ham pairing.
How long does homemade cranberry sauce last?
It can last up to two weeks when stored properly in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze cranberry sauce?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just store it in an airtight container for up to three months.
Homemade Fresh Cranberry Orange Sauce
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Elevate your holiday meals with this Homemade Fresh Cranberry Orange Sauce. Bursting with vibrant flavors, this easy-to-make sauce combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the zesty brightness of oranges. Perfect as a condiment for turkey or a topping for desserts, it’s a festive delight that will impress at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
- 1 large orange (zest and juice, approx. ½ cup juice)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- ½ cup water
- 1 cinnamon stick
Instructions
- Rinse cranberries under cold water, discarding any stems or unripe berries. Zest and juice the orange.
- In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, zest, sugar, water, and cinnamon stick over medium heat.
- Stir until mixed; bring to a gentle boil. Cook for 10-15 minutes until cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and cool slightly before serving warm or chilled.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ cup (60g)
- Calories: 65
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
