This sweet and tangy Brown Sugar Honey Cranberry Sauce is the perfect side dish for your holiday meals! It’s easy to make and uses just a few simple ingredients.
I love how the honey and brown sugar bring out the rich flavor of the cranberries. You might even find yourself sneaking spoonfuls when no one is looking! 😉
Making this sauce is a breeze. Just cook the cranberries until they burst, mix in the honey and sugar, and you’re set! It’s a simple way to make your dishes shine!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries give the best flavor, but frozen ones work too! They’re great if you can’t find fresh. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking.
Brown Sugar: This sweetener lends a deep flavor. If you’re looking for a lower sugar option, try using coconut sugar or a sugar substitute that measures like brown sugar.
Honey: The honey adds natural sweetness. You can substitute with maple syrup for a different flavor profile, or use agave syrup if you prefer a vegan option.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the sauce. If you’re out of lemons, you can use a splash of apple cider vinegar as a backup.
Rosemary: This is optional but adds a nice touch. If rosemary isn’t your favorite, consider using thyme or just omitting it altogether.
How Do You Get the Perfect Thickness for Your Sauce?
Getting the right thickness for cranberry sauce is key to its texture. Here’s how to ensure it turns out just right:
- Cook the mixture just long enough for the cranberries to burst and release their juices. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and help the sauce thicken. The bubbles you see indicate it’s cooking properly!
- If it’s too thick, add a tablespoon of water. If you like it thicker, let it simmer a bit longer.
- Cool it down completely. The sauce will thicken more as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a bit runny initially.
These tips should help you make a delicious cranberry sauce every time! Enjoy it on your holiday plates or as a tasty condiment anytime!
How to Make Brown Sugar Honey Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary (optional, for garnish and subtle flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, giving a total time of around 20 minutes. Allow some extra time for cooling, and you’re all set to serve this delicious sauce!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse and Prepare the Cranberries:
Start by rinsing the cranberries under cold water. Carefully check each berry and remove any that are soft or damaged. This ensures that your sauce will taste fresh and vibrant!
2. Combine Ingredients in a Saucepan:
In a medium saucepan, add the cleaned cranberries, brown sugar, honey, and water. Mix everything together gently. This mixture is going to create a lovely, sweet sauce!
3. Bring to a Boil:
Turn the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s boiling, lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer. This step is crucial for helping the cranberries burst and develop their flavor.
4. Cook Until Thickened:
Let the sauce cook for about 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll see the cranberries pop, and the sauce will slowly thicken. It’s a beautiful transformation!
5. Add Lemon Juice:
After the sauce has thickened, stir in the fresh lemon juice. This will add a nice tang and balance the sweetness. Let it cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to blend the flavors.
6. Cool the Sauce:
Once the cooking is done, remove the saucepan from heat. Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature. As it cools, it will continue to thicken, making it the perfect consistency!
7. Transfer and Garnish:
Pour the cranberry sauce into a serving jar or bowl. If you like, add a fresh sprig of rosemary on top for a lovely garnish and a hint of herbal aroma.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
This cranberry sauce can be served chilled or at room temperature. It’s a versatile addition to your holiday table or any meal, pairing beautifully with turkey, chicken, or even on sandwiches!
Enjoy this sweet and tangy sauce—you’ll find it brings a delightful burst of flavor wherever you use it!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely before using for even cooking and flavor.
How Do I Adjust the Sweetness?
If you prefer a sweeter sauce, feel free to add more brown sugar or honey to taste. Start with an additional tablespoon and adjust until it meets your preference!
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make this cranberry sauce up to a week in advance. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it will stay delicious and flavorful!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can reheat it gently on the stove or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.