Cranberry Orange Sauce Recipe – Easy Holiday Side Dish Idea
This cranberry orange sauce recipe is a tangy and festive side dish made with fresh cranberries, orange zest, and sugar. Perfect for holiday meals, Thanksgiving feasts, or as a flavorful condiment for roasted meats.
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Zester or grater
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup fresh orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- ½ cup water
- Optional: ½ tsp cinnamon or nutmeg, splash of Grand Marnier or brandy
Instructions
- Prep Cranberries: Rinse cranberries and discard any soft ones.
- Combine Base: In a saucepan, mix cranberries, orange juice, zest, sugar, and water.
- Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cranberries burst and sauce thickens.
- Add Flavor: Stir in optional spices or liqueur.
- Cool: Remove from heat. Sauce will thicken further as it cools.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with extra zest or orange slices.
Notes
- Sweetness Control: Adjust sugar based on cranberry tartness.
- Make Ahead: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 1 week; flavors deepen overnight.
- Freezer-Friendly: Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
- Variations: Try honey or maple syrup instead of sugar, or add pomegranate juice for a twist.
- Serving Tip: Delicious with turkey, ham, or spread on leftover sandwiches.