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Easy Classic Cranberry Sauce First Image

Cranberry Sauce


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  • Author: Chef John
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A tangy cranberry sauce that pairs perfectly with your holiday meals.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • Zest of 1 orange (optional)
  • 1 pinch of salt
  • 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
  • 1 star anise (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
  • Splash of orange juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the cranberries thoroughly, discarding any soft or discolored ones.
  2. In a medium saucepan, bring water and sugar to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves completely.
  3. Add the cranberries and stir to coat them in the syrup. Include optional orange zest or spices if desired.
  4. Let simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens.
  5. Taste and adjust — add more sugar, citrus, or spice to balance tartness.
  6. Remove from heat, discard any whole spices, and sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.

Notes

  • This sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.
  • It can be served warm or chilled.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Condiment
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 cup
  • Calories: 100
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 1mg
  • Fat: 0g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 0.5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg