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Easy Cranberry Sauce

Easy Cranberry Sauce: Festive & Delicious

This simple cranberry sauce recipe is perfect for Thanksgiving or any holiday gathering. It's quick to make and bursting with fresh cranberry flavor.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 12 ounces Fresh or frozen cranberries (one 12-ounce bag)
  • 1 cup Granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup Brown sugar (optional, for deeper flavor)
  • 1/2 cup Orange juice Freshly squeezed is best
  • 1/4 cup Water
  • 1 teaspoon Orange zest (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground cinnamon (optional, for added warmth)
  • 1 pinch Pinch of salt

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Combine cranberries, sugars, orange juice, water, orange zest (if using), cinnamon (if using), and salt in a medium saucepan.
  2. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  3. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally.
  4. Remove from heat and let the cranberry sauce cool completely. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken further.
  5. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed. You can add a little more sugar if desired.
  6. Once cooled, transfer the cranberry sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow it to fully thicken. This will also enhance the flavors.
  7. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!

Notes

This recipe can be easily doubled or tripled to make a larger batch. Leftover cranberry sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.