Transform your holiday meals with this Perfectly Tangy Homemade Cranberry Sauce, a must-have on any festive table. Whether you’re a fan of sweet, tart, or something in between, this recipe allows you to customize the sweetness to suit your taste. Made with just three simple ingredients, it’s an easy, fresh alternative to store-bought versions. Plus, the vibrant flavors of cranberries and orange juice make this dish a standout side for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup orange juice
- ½ – 1 cup white sugar, adjusted to taste:
- ½ cup for tart cranberry sauce
- ¾ cup for a mild sweetness
- 1 cup for a sweeter sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Rinse the cranberries thoroughly and pick out any that are soft or bruised. Measure your desired amount of sugar based on how sweet you want the sauce.
Step 2: Combine in a Saucepan
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange juice, and sugar. Stir to mix the ingredients evenly.
Step 3: Cook the Sauce
- Place the saucepan over medium heat. Cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the cranberries begin to pop. This should take about 10 minutes.
Step 4: Adjust Consistency
- For a thicker sauce, continue cooking for a few extra minutes until the liquid reduces slightly. For a smoother texture, you can use a blender or an immersion blender to puree the sauce once it cools slightly.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Remove the sauce from heat and allow it to cool. As it cools, it will thicken further. Serve warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
Conclusion
This homemade cranberry sauce is a versatile and flavorful addition to your holiday feast. Its bright color and tangy taste are sure to impress guests and complement dishes like roast turkey, stuffing, and even desserts. With the flexibility to customize sweetness, it’s a recipe that everyone can enjoy.
Say goodbye to canned cranberry sauce and elevate your meals with this simple, fresh, and delicious recipe. Make it ahead of time to save yourself some prep work during the holidays—because nothing says “festive” like a homemade touch!