CFC’s Festive Homemade Cranberry Sauce!

A vibrant, sweet-tart cranberry sauce that brings color, freshness, and a burst of festive flavor to any holiday table. This simple homemade version comes together quickly and tastes far better than anything store-bought.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cranberry sauce is incredibly easy to make, naturally flavorful, and customizable. It pairs beautifully with a variety of holiday dishes and can be made ahead of time for stress-free entertaining. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you’ll have a stunning, glossy sauce that elevates any meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 12 ounces (340 g) fresh cranberries, rinsed
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
• 1 teaspoon fresh orange juice
• 1 cinnamon stick (optional but adds great warmth)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar fully dissolves.
2. Add the cranberries and return the mixture to a simmer.
3. Stir in the orange zest, orange juice, and cinnamon stick.
4. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for about 10–12 minutes, or until most cranberries burst and the sauce begins to thicken.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract if using.
6. Allow the sauce to cool. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
7. Transfer to a container and chill until ready to serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8 servings.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Total time: 17 minutes

Variations

• Honey-Sweetened Version: Replace the granulated sugar with ¾ cup honey for a deeper, floral sweetness.
• Orange-Forward Version: Replace half of the water with orange juice for a stronger citrus flavor.
• Spiced Cranberry Sauce: Add a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg, or drop in a star anise while simmering.
• Chunky Style: Mash lightly with a fork just before cooling if you like larger cranberry pieces.
• Smooth Style: Blend the cooked sauce until velvety before chilling.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 10 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stove over low heat if you prefer it served warm, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

How far in advance can I make this cranberry sauce?

You can make it up to 10 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

Will frozen cranberries work?

Yes, frozen cranberries work perfectly and require no thawing.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar to ¾ cup for a tarter sauce.

Can I make this sauce without orange?

Absolutely. Simply omit the zest and juice and replace them with an extra tablespoon of water.

Why did my sauce come out too thick?

It may have cooked longer than needed. Add a splash of water and heat gently to loosen it.

Can I use brown sugar?

Yes, brown sugar adds a subtle caramel note and works well in this recipe.

How do I achieve a silky smooth texture?

Blend the sauce after cooling slightly, then strain if you want it extra smooth.

Can I add other fruits?

Yes, apples, pears, or raspberries cook well with cranberries and add natural sweetness.

Do I need the cinnamon stick?

It’s optional, but it enhances warmth and depth—perfect for festive meals.

How long does it take to cool fully?

It usually cools in about 30–45 minutes at room temperature, then thickens further in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

CFC’s Festive Homemade Cranberry Sauce is a simple yet impressive addition to any holiday spread. With its jewel-like color and fresh, bright flavor, it transforms meals and complements both traditional and modern dishes. Whether enjoyed warm or chilled, this homemade version adds a festive flair that’s hard to beat.

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