Description
This Super Easy Cranberry Sauce is a simple, delicious accompaniment perfect for holiday meals or any time you want a tangy sweet addition to your dishes. Made with fresh cranberries, brown sugar, and a hint of cinnamon, it simmers gently to develop a thick, flavorful sauce that’s quick to prepare and wonderfully versatile.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup water or orange juice
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
Instructions
- Inspect the Cranberries: Pick out any cranberries that may be past their prime and discard them to ensure freshness and quality in the sauce.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the fresh cranberries, water or orange juice, brown sugar, and the cinnamon stick to a medium-sized saucepan. Stir the mixture well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the Sauce: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries begin to pop and the sauce starts to thicken.
- Continue Cooking: Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue simmering for an additional 10 to 12 minutes or until the sauce reaches your preferred thickness. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Finish and Cool: Remove the cinnamon stick from the sauce. Allow the cranberry sauce to cool; it will continue to thicken as it cools. Transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator.
Notes
- You can substitute orange juice for water to add a subtle citrus flavor.
- The sauce can be made a day ahead and stored refrigerated to enhance the flavors.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, you can mash the cranberries slightly while cooking or blend briefly after cooling.
- The cinnamon stick adds warmth, but you can omit it for a simpler version.
- Store in the refrigerator and consume within one to two weeks for best freshness.
