Easy Classic Cranberry Sauce
Why Make This Recipe
Cranberry sauce is a classic side dish that adds a touch of sweetness to savory meals. This Easy Classic Cranberry Sauce is perfect for special occasions, especially during holiday feasts. It’s quick to prepare, and you can adjust the sweetness to suit your taste. When you make this sauce at home, you get a fresh, flavorful condiment that beats store-bought options every time!
How to Make Easy Classic Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients:
- 16 oz / 500g bag frozen cranberries (or fresh)
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1/3 cup water
- 1/8 tsp lemon zest
- Pinch of salt
Directions:
- Tip the cranberries into a saucepan set over medium-low heat. Remove a heaped 1/2 cup of cranberries and set these aside for later.
- Add the sugar, water, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt to the pan with the remaining cranberries. Cook for about 5 minutes until the sugar dissolves.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and cook for 10 minutes. Most of the cranberries should burst, and the liquid should become syrupy.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the reserved cranberries. Taste and adjust the sweetness with more sugar if needed. Add a pinch of salt.
- Allow the sauce to cool, and then store it in the fridge for up to 3 weeks. The sauce will thicken as it cools. It’s best when served at room temperature or warm.
- This cranberry sauce pairs perfectly with juicy Roast Turkey, Slow Cooker Turkey Breast, or Roasted Turkey Breast.
How to Serve Easy Classic Cranberry Sauce
Serve your Easy Classic Cranberry Sauce alongside turkey or ham for a delightful holiday meal. It also works well as a topping for cream cheese on crackers for a tasty appetizer or as a condiment for sandwiches. You can enjoy it with both hot and cold dishes!
How to Store Easy Classic Cranberry Sauce
After making your cranberry sauce, allow it to cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 weeks. You can also freeze the sauce for longer storage—just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container.
Tips to Make Easy Classic Cranberry Sauce
- For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of orange juice with the water.
- If you like a hint of spice, try adding a cinnamon stick while it cooks for added warmth.
- Remember, the sauce will thicken more as it cools, so don’t worry if it’s a bit runny while warm.
Variation
Feel free to experiment! You can add chopped apples or nuts for a different texture. A splash of port or red wine can also add depth to the flavor.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh cranberries work just fine! You might have to rinse and pick them over to remove any bad berries.
How long can I keep leftover cranberry sauce?
You can store leftover cranberry sauce in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
Can I freeze cranberry sauce?
Absolutely! Make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container and it can last several months in the freezer. Just thaw it in the fridge before serving again.