Go Back
–+ servings
Shot of a stoneware bowl containing cranberry sauce with bits of fresh cranberries. Sauce is garnished with orange zest.

Homemade Cranberry Sauce

Homemade Cranberry Sauce

A classic holiday condiment with tangy cranberries and citrus.
 Beth Moncel
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Cool Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dips and Spreads, Sides
Cuisine American
Servings 6 Servings

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1 small orange

Instructions
 

  • Add the sugar and water to a medium saucepot. Stir to combine. Bring the water to a boil over medium heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
  • Rinse the cranberries, then add them to the boiling sugar water, and place a lid on top. Allow the water to come back up to a boil, at which point the cranberries will begin to pop.
  • Once all the cranberries have popped, remove the lid, give it a stir, and turn the heat down to medium-low. Let the pot continue to simmer over medium-low heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until the cranberries have completely broken down and the mixture has thickened. You can simmer longer if you prefer an extra thick cranberry sauce.
  • While the cranberries simmer, zest and juice the orange.
  • Once the cranberry sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in 2 tablespoons orange juice and 1/4 teaspoon zest to the sauce. Allow the sauce to cool slightly, then serve.

Notes

Try This

  • Add a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or clove for a hint of holiday spice.
Used with permission from Beth Moncel at Budget Bytes.
Keyword 5 Ingredients or Less, Easy, Frozen, Holiday, Southern Thanksgiving, Vegetarian