This cranberry raspberry sauce is a tangy and sweet delight! With fresh berries simmered together, it’s the perfect topping for your holiday meals or breakfast treats.
It’s super easy to make and adds a bright pop of color and flavor to anything you serve. I love slathering it on pancakes—way better than plain syrup! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are key for that tart flavor. If you can’t find fresh ones, frozen will work too. Just don’t thaw them before cooking; add them directly to the pot.
Raspberries: Fresh raspberries complement the cranberries beautifully with their sweetness. You can swap them for blackberries or strawberries if you’re in a pinch, just keep the flavors in mind!
Sugar: Adjust the amount of sugar based on your taste. For a healthier option, consider using honey or maple syrup. Just remember to reduce the water slightly if you use liquid sweeteners.
Citrus: The lemon juice adds brightness. You could also use lime juice for a different twist. The orange zest is optional, but it adds a lovely aroma—try it if you have an orange on hand!
How Do I Ensure My Sauce Has the Perfect Consistency?
Getting the right thickness in your cranberry raspberry sauce is all about simmering it just right. Here’s how to nail that texture:
- Cook on medium heat until the mixture reaches a boil. Stir often to prevent sticking.
- Once boiling, reduce to low heat and let it simmer. This allows the cranberries to burst, enriching the sauce’s flavor.
- Keep an eye on the sauce. It should be thick but still pourable. If it gets too thick, stir in a little water until you reach your desired consistency.
Delicious Cranberry Raspberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For The Sauce:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 8 ounces fresh raspberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
- Fresh rosemary sprig (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and 15-20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you will spend around 30-35 minutes to make this delightful sauce!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse the Berries:
Start by rinsing your fresh cranberries and raspberries under cold water in a colander. Make sure they are clean and drain well to remove excess water.
2. Combine Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, mix the cranberries, raspberries, granulated sugar, and water together. Stir everything to combine the ingredients well.
3. Bring to a Boil:
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir occasionally to help dissolve the sugar into the sauce.
4. Simmer the Sauce:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes. You’ll notice the cranberries bursting, releasing their juices, and the sauce thickening.
5. Add Citrus Flavor:
When the mixture has thickened, stir in the fresh lemon juice and orange zest if you’re using it. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Cool and Thicken:
Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the sauce to cool slightly. It will thicken more as it cools.
7. Serve It Up:
Transfer your cranberry raspberry sauce to a serving bowl. Feel free to garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary if desired for a lovely touch.
8. Enjoy!
This sauce can be enjoyed warm or chilled. Pair it with your favorite holiday dishes, spread on toast, or drizzle over pancakes for a delicious treat!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries and Raspberries?
Absolutely! If you can’t find fresh cranberries or raspberries, frozen ones will work just fine. Just remember not to thaw them before adding them to the pot; throw them in straight from the freezer!
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
You can easily modify the sweetness by adjusting the amount of sugar. Start with less sugar, taste as you go, and add more if needed. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using honey, agave, or maple syrup while reducing the water slightly.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Just give it a gentle stir before serving, as it may thicken when chilled. You can also freeze the sauce in portions for longer storage—just thaw in the fridge overnight before using.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! This sauce can be made a few days in advance. Just prepare it as directed, let it cool completely, and store it in the fridge. It actually tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld together!