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Easy Cranberry Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 148 reviews

This Easy Cranberry Sauce is a classic, tangy-sweet side dish perfect for Thanksgiving or any festive meal. Made with fresh or frozen cranberries, sugar, and water, it’s simple to prepare and can be made ahead of time for convenience. The optional addition of orange zest adds a bright, citrusy flavor to enhance the sauce’s depth.

Ingredients

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Ingredients

  • 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • Zest of 1 orange (optional)

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, granulated sugar, and water. Mix well to ensure the sugar begins to dissolve.
  2. Boil the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to help dissolve the sugar evenly.
  3. Simmer the Sauce: Lower the heat to a simmer and cook the sauce for 10 to 15 minutes. During this time, the cranberries will start to pop, releasing their juices, and the sauce will thicken to a jam-like consistency.
  4. Add Orange Zest: If using, stir in the zest of one orange to add a fresh citrus aroma and flavor to the sauce.
  5. Cool and Store: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the cranberry sauce to cool completely. Once cooled, transfer the sauce into a container with a lid and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Notes

  • Use fresh or frozen cranberries interchangeably; no need to thaw frozen cranberries before cooking.
  • Adjust sugar level to taste for a sweeter or tarter sauce.
  • The orange zest is optional but recommended for a fragrant, bright twist.
  • Allow the sauce to cool before sealing the container to prevent condensation and spoilage.
  • Store cranberry sauce in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Keywords: cranberry sauce, Thanksgiving side, easy cranberry sauce, homemade cranberry sauce, holiday recipes

Find it online: https://frommamamaya.com/easy-cranberry-sauce-recipe/