This cranberry sauce brings a burst of sweet-tart flavor to your table, making it the perfect pairing with turkey or a cozy winter meal. It’s simple to whip up and uses fresh cranberries.
Honestly, this sauce can steal the spotlight from the turkey! I love to drizzle it over my leftovers for an extra tasty treat. Who doesn’t love a little zing on their plate? 😄
Making this sauce is super easy! Just cook the cranberries with sugar and a hint of orange juice, and you’re all set. It’s a holiday favorite that I look forward to every year!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Cranberries: These are the star of the sauce and provide that bright tartness. If you can’t find fresh cranberries, frozen ones work too; just don’t thaw them before cooking for the best consistency.
Sugar: This balances the tartness. You can swap granulated sugar with honey, agave syrup, or even coconut sugar for a different twist. Just adjust the amount, as natural sweeteners can vary in sweetness.
Orange Juice: Fresh juice enhances the flavor. If you’re out of oranges, use store-bought juice or substitute with apple juice for a different but still tasty flavor profile.
Cinnamon Stick: An optional ingredient that adds warmth. You can use ground cinnamon instead if that’s what you have on hand. Just a pinch should do!
How Do I Ensure My Cranberry Sauce Thickens Properly?
Thickening your cranberry sauce is all about cooking it long enough for the berries to burst and release their natural pectin, which helps thicken it. Here are a few tips:
- Keep the heat at a gentle simmer after bringing it to a boil. This ensures the cranberries cook through without burning.
- Be patient! Letting it simmer for at least 10-15 minutes helps develop the right consistency.
- If you prefer a smoother sauce, mash the cranberries with the back of a spoon or use a blender for a pulse or two.
Let the sauce cool completely before refrigerating. It will continue to thicken as it cools, creating a wonderful texture that you’ll love!
Joanna Gaines Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional, for extra citrus flavor)
- 1 small cinnamon stick (optional)
- A sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cranberry sauce takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook, plus some time to cool down. It’s quick to make and the best part is that it can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, ready to enhance your holiday meals!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Cranberries:
Start by rinsing the fresh cranberries under cold water. Make sure to check for any soft or damaged berries and discard them. This step ensures you’ll have a deliciously vibrant sauce.
2. Make the Base:
In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, freshly squeezed orange juice, and water. Using medium heat, stir the mixture until the sugar has completely dissolved. You’re creating a sweet and tangy juice base!
3. Add the Cranberries:
Now add the rinsed cranberries to the saucepan. If you’re using orange zest and the optional cinnamon stick, toss those in too! This will elevate the flavor profile of the sauce.
4. Cook the Sauce:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. Keep an eye on it as the cranberries begin to burst open! Cook for about 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. The fragrance will fill your kitchen!
5. Final Touches:
Once the sauce has thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and carefully discard the cinnamon stick if you used one. Let the sauce cool for a bit. It’ll thicken further as it cools.
6. Serve or Store:
Transfer your beautiful cranberry sauce to a serving bowl. If you want to get fancy, you can garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme. Pop it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
This cranberry sauce is not only vibrant and tart but lightly sweetened with a hint of citrus, making it a superb complement to your holiday meals or any cozy dinner. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries in This Recipe?
Yes! Frozen cranberries work well, and there’s no need to thaw them beforehand. Just toss them directly into the saucepan with the other ingredients. They may take a minute or two longer to cook, but the results will be just as delicious!
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
If you prefer a less sweet sauce, simply reduce the amount of sugar to your taste. Start with 3/4 cup and adjust from there. You can also balance the sweetness by adding a pinch of salt or incorporating a bit more orange juice for acidity.
Can I Make This Cranberry Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make this sauce up to a week in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully, and it’ll be a fantastic make-ahead option for your holiday gatherings!
How Should I Store Leftover Cranberry Sauce?
Store any leftover cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. It can also be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw it in the fridge before serving, and give it a good stir to restore its texture!
