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Easy Cranberry Sauce

Easy Cranberry Sauce: The Perfect Thanksgiving Side Dish

This simple cranberry sauce recipe is quick, easy, and delivers the perfect tart-sweet balance for your holiday table. Made with fresh or frozen cranberries, it's a crowd-pleaser every time!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 12 ounces Fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1 cup Granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup Brown sugar Optional, for deeper flavor
  • 1/2 cup Orange juice Freshly squeezed is best
  • 1/4 cup Water
  • 1 teaspoon Orange zest Optional, adds brightness
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground cinnamon Optional, for added warmth
  • 1/4 teaspoon Pinch of salt Enhances flavors

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir to combine.
  2. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally.
  4. Remove from heat and let cool completely. The sauce will thicken further as it cools.
  5. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed, adding more sugar if desired.
  6. Once cooled, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld. This will also improve the sauce's consistency.
  7. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!

Notes

This recipe can be easily doubled or tripled for larger gatherings. For a smoother sauce, you can use an immersion blender to puree the sauce after it has cooled slightly. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.