Cranberry sauce is a classic Thanksgiving staple that brightens up your holiday meal with its vibrant color and tangy flavor. Not only does this Best Thanksgiving Cranberry Sauce complement turkey beautifully, but it also adds a refreshing burst that everyone will enjoy. Making this sauce from scratch is easier than you might think, and the aroma of simmering cranberries and orange zest will fill your kitchen with warmth and holiday spirit.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 135
- Protein: 0.2 grams
- Carbohydrates: 35 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Sugar: 30 grams
- Sodium: 5 mg
Why Make This Best Thanksgiving Cranberry Sauce
This Best Thanksgiving Cranberry Sauce is not only easy to prepare, but it’s also a delightful blend of sweet and tart flavors that perfectly balances the richness of roasted turkey and stuffing. Unlike canned cranberry sauces, making your own allows you to control the sweetness and freshness. Plus, the beautiful ruby red color will add a festive touch to your holiday table, making it an eye-catching addition to your spread.
How to Make Best Thanksgiving Cranberry Sauce
Follow these simple steps to create a homemade cranberry sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 orange, zested and juiced
- 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
In a medium saucepan, combine water, sugar, and freshly squeezed orange juice. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. This sweet syrup forms the base for your sauce.
Step 2: Adding Cranberries
Once the syrup is boiling, add the fresh cranberries to the saucepan. Stir well, and return the mixture to a boil. The cranberries will start to pop as they cook, releasing their juices into the syrup.
Step 3: Cooking
Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when most of the cranberries have burst and the mixture has thickened slightly. This is the point where the flavors meld beautifully, creating an irresistible aroma.
Step 4: Finishing
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the orange zest, cinnamon stick (if using), and a pinch of salt. Allow the sauce to cool as it will thicken even more during the cooling process. Once cooled, serve at room temperature or refrigerate until you are ready to serve.
How to Serve Best Thanksgiving Cranberry Sauce
This sauce is a perfect side for your Thanksgiving turkey, but don’t stop there! It also pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, can be used as a topping for toast, or drizzled over cream cheese for a quick appetizer. Serve it in a beautiful bowl to showcase its rich red color.
How to Store Best Thanksgiving Cranberry Sauce
Store your cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. You can also freeze it for up to two months—just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Expert Tips for Perfect Best Thanksgiving Cranberry Sauce
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of sugar to ¾ cup or substitute half of it with honey or maple syrup.
- Add More Spices: Feel free to enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of nutmeg or a few cloves to the saucepan while it’s cooking.
- Make it Ahead of Time: This sauce can be made a couple of days in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen for a better-tasting sauce come mealtime.
Delicious Variations
- Spicy Cranberry Sauce: Add a diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.
- Apple-Cranberry Sauce: Mix in peeled and diced apples for added sweetness and texture.
- Nutty Cranberry Sauce: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts after cooking for a crunchy twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries! Just add them to the pot without thawing, but keep in mind that the cooking time may increase slightly. -
How can I make this sauce less acidic?
To balance the acidity, you can add more sugar or even a splash of maple syrup or honey. -
Is this cranberry sauce gluten-free?
Absolutely, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as all the ingredients used are free from gluten. -
What’s the best way to serve leftover cranberry sauce?
Leftover cranberry sauce is delicious on sandwiches, pancakes, waffles, or even stirred into yogurt for a tasty breakfast. -
Can I can this cranberry sauce for later use?
Yes, if done properly, you can sterilize jars and can this sauce for later. Make sure to follow appropriate canning procedures.
Conclusion
This Best Thanksgiving Cranberry Sauce is a simple yet delightful addition to your holiday feast. Its vibrant color and rich flavor make it not just tasty but visually appealing too. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned chef, this recipe will surely impress your family and guests. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and enjoy the process of creating this homemade gem that will make your Thanksgiving celebration truly special!
