This Orange Amaretto Cranberry Sauce is a tasty twist on a classic dish. The sweet and tangy orange, mixed with a touch of almond flavor from the amaretto, makes it special.
I love how this sauce brightens up any meal! You can serve it with turkey or just enjoy it straight from the bowl—no judgment here! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are crucial for that tangy flavor. If fresh ones aren’t available, frozen cranberries work just as well. Just remember not to thaw them before cooking!
Amaretto Liqueur: This adds a lovely almond flavor to the sauce. If you prefer to skip the alcohol, you can replace it with a splash of almond extract—just use a smaller amount, as it’s more concentrated.
Orange Juice and Zest: Fresh orange juice gives the best flavor, but bottled juice can be a substitute if needed. I like to use organic oranges because the zest adds an amazing aroma. Avoid the bitter pith while zesting!
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the sauce, but you can use honey or maple syrup for a more natural touch. Adjust the amount based on your sweetness preference.
Why Is it Important to Simmer the Sauce Properly?
The simmering step is key to developing the flavors and ensuring the cranberries burst, releasing their juices. Follow these simple steps to get it just right:
- Start by boiling the mixture to help dissolve the sugar quickly.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the cranberries to soften and the sauce to thicken.
- Keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, and remove it from heat once the desired thickness is achieved.
Letting the sauce cool will help it thicken even more, so be patient! It’s worth the wait for that perfect texture.
How to Make Orange Amaretto Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons amaretto liqueur
- 1 cinnamon stick
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Orange Amaretto Cranberry Sauce takes about 5 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook. After that, let it cool for an additional 30 minutes to allow it to thicken properly. In total, you’re looking at around 50 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, mix together the fresh cranberries, sugar, fresh orange juice, orange zest, water, and the cinnamon stick. This combination will create a sweet and tangy base for your sauce!
2. Bring to a Boil:
Set the saucepan over medium-high heat and stir the mixture. Watch for it to come to a boil. Stir occasionally to help dissolve the sugar and mix the flavors together.
3. Simmer to Thicken:
Once the mixture starts to boil, lower the heat to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 10-15 minutes. You’ll notice the cranberries begin to burst and the sauce will start to thicken. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally.
4. Finish the Sauce:
Remove the saucepan from heat and take out the cinnamon stick. Give the mixture a good stir, then add in the amaretto liqueur, mixing well to incorporate the flavors.
5. Cool and Serve:
Let the cranberry sauce cool to room temperature. It will continue to thicken as it cools. Once cooled, transfer the sauce to a serving bowl. If you like, you can garnish it with some extra orange zest for a lovely presentation.
6. Enjoy!
Serve your Orange Amaretto Cranberry Sauce chilled or at room temperature, alongside your favorite dishes—it’s especially great with turkey, ham, or even on toast! Enjoy the delightful flavor!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work perfectly in this recipe. There’s no need to thaw them beforehand—just toss them into the pot directly. They may take a little longer to cook, so keep an eye on the consistency.
Can I Substitute Amaretto with Something Non-Alcoholic?
Yes! If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can replace the amaretto with a splash of almond extract. Use about 1 teaspoon, as it’s more concentrated than liqueur. This will still give you that lovely almond flavor!
How Should I Store Leftover Cranberry Sauce?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze the sauce for longer storage—just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before using it again. It will be just as delicious!
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Definitely! This cranberry sauce can be made up to a week in advance. Just prepare it, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply give it a gentle stir and it’s good to go!
