Irresistible Thanksgiving Cranberry Sauce Recipe to Savor

Thanksgiving is that magical time of year when our homes fill with the tantalizing aroma of roasted turkey and spiced pumpkin pie. But let’s be real; no Thanksgiving feast is complete without a vibrant sidekick—thanksgiving cranberry sauce. Southern Thanksgiving menu ideas This sweet and tart delight adds a burst of flavor, making each bite of turkey sing with joy. You might also enjoy this Southern Thanksgiving menu recipe.

Every year, as my family gathers around the table, I can’t help but reminisce about Grandma’s famous cranberry sauce. It was so good that it almost overshadowed the turkey! The way those bright red berries popped in your mouth while mingling with a hint of orange zest created a culinary explosion that would make anyone swoon. It’s a tradition that brings everyone together, and I promise this recipe will do just that.

Thanksgiving wouldn’t be the same without the laughter and love shared over Grandma’s cranberry sauce. Each year, we compete to see who can sneak in the most spoonfuls before dinner even starts!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Cranberries: Use firm, vibrant cranberries for maximum flavor and freshness; frozen can work too if necessary.

• Granulated Sugar: Adjust based on your sweetness preference; this balances out the tartness beautifully.

• Orange Zest: Freshly grated zest adds a bright citrus note that enhances the overall flavor profile.

• Water: Helps to cook down the cranberries into a luscious sauce; use cold water to start.

• Cinnamon Stick: Optional but recommended for a warm spice note; simply add it while cooking for subtle flavor infusion.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Rinse the fresh cranberries under cold water and pick out any mushy ones. Grate the orange zest using a microplane for maximum flavor.

Add Everything to a Pot: In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, water, and orange zest. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in a cinnamon stick for added warmth.

Bring to a Boil: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring everything to a gentle boil. Watch as those little berries start popping like fireworks on New Year’s Eve!

Simmer Away!: Reduce heat to low and let simmer for about 10-15 minutes until thickened. Stir occasionally while enjoying that sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen.

Cool It Down: Once thickened, remove from heat and discard the cinnamon stick if used. Allow your cranberry sauce to cool at room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator.

Serve with Style!: Once chilled (or not—who’s judging?), serve in a festive dish as part of your Thanksgiving spread or enjoy it on toast any day after.

Now you have an irresistible Thanksgiving cranberry sauce that everyone will talk about long after dessert! butternut squash casserole recipe. savory fall galette recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To make the best Thanksgiving Cranberry Sauce, combine fresh cranberries, sugar, and orange juice in a pot. Cook until the cranberries burst, usually around 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally for even consistency and to prevent sticking. For more inspiration, check out this Thanksgiving stuffed mini pumpkins recipe.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your sauce by adding spices like cinnamon or ginger for warmth. You can also swap orange juice for apple juice or toss in chopped apples or nuts for added texture and flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store your Thanksgiving Cranberry Sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat until warmed through or use the microwave in short bursts.

Creating my first Thanksgiving Cranberry Sauce was a game changer; my family couldn’t believe how easy it was to make this delicious side dish! Thanksgiving side dish inspiration.

FAQ

What is the best way to serve Thanksgiving Cranberry Sauce?

Serve it chilled or at room temperature alongside turkey and stuffing for a festive touch.

Can I make Thanksgiving Cranberry Sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! It’s best when made a day or two before serving to enhance flavors.

How long does homemade cranberry sauce last?

Homemade cranberry sauce lasts up to two weeks in the fridge if stored properly.

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Thanksgiving Cranberry Sauce

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• Author: Jessica
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x

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Description

Thanksgiving wouldn’t be complete without a vibrant cranberry sauce that balances sweet and tart flavors. This easy homemade Thanksgiving Cranberry Sauce takes just 30 minutes to prepare, infusing your holiday feast with a burst of color and flavor. With fresh cranberries, a hint of orange zest, and the warmth of cinnamon, this sauce elevates turkey dinners and can even be enjoyed on toast throughout the season.

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Ingredients

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• 12 oz fresh cranberries
• 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1 cup water
• 1 cinnamon stick (optional)

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Instructions

1. Rinse cranberries under cold water, removing any mushy ones.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, water, and orange zest. Add the cinnamon stick if desired.
3. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat; watch for the cranberries to pop.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from heat, discard cinnamon stick if used, and let cool at room temperature before refrigerating.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Condiment
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 tbsp
• Calories: 60
• Sugar: 13g
• Sodium: 1mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: <1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg