This cranberry sauce is a sweet and tangy treat that shines at any meal. With fresh cranberries, a hint of orange, and a touch of sugar, it’s bursting with flavor!
Honestly, this sauce makes Thanksgiving even more special. I love how easy it is to whip up, and the smell while it cooks is heavenly. Plus, it pairs perfectly with turkey—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries provide the best flavor, but frozen ones work just as well. If you can’t find cranberries, try pomegranate seeds for a different twist.
Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness to the sauce. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using honey or maple syrup. Just adjust the amount to taste as they are sweeter than sugar.
Orange Zest & Juice: Fresh orange adds a lovely zing. If you’re out of oranges, lemon zest and juice can be a nice substitute but will give a different flavor profile. Grated ginger also adds a fun twist here!
Fresh Rosemary: This is optional but adds an aromatic touch. If you don’t have rosemary, try thyme or omit it for a simpler taste.
How Do You Get Cranberries to Pop Perfectly?
The key to making sure your cranberries burst effectively is to simmer them gently after they hit boiling. Here’s how to do it:
- Always start with a mixture that’s boiling. Monitor your heat: too high, and they can burn; too low, and they won’t burst properly.
- Stir occasionally while simmering. This keeps them cooking evenly and helps them pop!
- Don’t rush it—let them bubble away for about 10-15 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when most cranberries have burst, and the sauce becomes slightly thickened.
Letting the sauce cool in the pan will help it thicken further. Enjoy your homemade cranberry sauce with pride!
Joanna Gaines Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 ounces (about 3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (from 1 orange)
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary (optional for garnish)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cranberry sauce takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook, making it quick and easy to whip up. Allow some extra time for cooling, as it will thicken as it sits!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cranberries:
Start by rinsing the cranberries under cold water. Check for any bruised or damaged cranberries and discard them. It’s important to use only the freshest and best for your sauce!
2. Making the Base:
In a medium saucepan, mix together the sugar, water, orange zest, and fresh orange juice. Set the saucepan over medium heat and stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves, bringing it to a gentle boil.
3. Add the Cranberries:
Add the rinsed cranberries to the boiling mixture. The heat should be at a medium-high level. Once you add the cranberries, bring the mixture back to a boil.
4. Simmer and Stir:
Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer. Stir occasionally while cooking. You want to keep an eye on them for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries start bursting and the sauce thickens up a bit.
5. Cool it Down:
Once done, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the sauce cool a little bit. Remember, it will continue to thicken as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a little runny initially!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer your delicious cranberry sauce to a serving bowl. If you like, you can garnish it with a sprig of fresh rosemary for some added elegance. It can be served chilled or at room temperature. This sauce makes a perfect accompaniment to turkey and other festive dishes!
This cranberry sauce is simple, fresh, and bursting with bright citrus flavors that balance the tartness of the cranberries perfectly. Enjoy the holiday flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh. Just make sure to rinse them under cold water before using. No need to thaw them first; you can add them directly to the cooking mixture!
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
If you prefer a less sweet cranberry sauce, feel free to reduce the sugar by a quarter or a third. You can start with less sugar and taste the mixture as it cooks, adding more if desired. Remember, the tartness of the cranberries will balance out the sweetness!
How Should I Store Leftover Cranberry Sauce?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. If it thickens too much in the fridge, you can add a splash of water to loosen it up!
Can I Add Other Flavors to the Sauce?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding spices like cinnamon or cloves, or even a splash of red wine. You can also mix in some chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture and flavor!
