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Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Fresh Cranberries: They are key for that tart flavor. If fresh cranberries are hard to find, you can use frozen cranberries, just make sure to thaw them first.

Sugar: Adjust the sweetness by using less sugar or substituting with honey or maple syrup. Just remember, this can alter the texture a bit.

Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed is best for bright flavor. If you don’t have fresh oranges, bottled juice works in a pinch. You could also use lemon juice for more tartness!

Cinnamon: This is optional but adds warmth. If you’re not a fan, you can skip it, or try nutmeg for a different twist.

How Do I Get the Right Consistency for My Sauce?

Getting the perfect texture is important for this sauce. You want it to be chunky but not completely smooth. Here’s how:

• When using your food processor, pulse the ingredients instead of blending them. This helps keep those cranberry pieces nice and intact.
• Check the consistency after a few pulses. It should be finely chopped, with some texture left.
• If it’s too chunky, you can pulse a bit more, but be careful not to over-process.

Chilling the sauce also helps thicken it up, so be patient and let it sit for a couple of hours. A little extra waiting makes all the difference!

No Cook Cranberry Sauce

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 12 ounces fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• Pinch of salt

How Much Time Will You Need?

This quick recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. After mixing, you’ll need to chill the sauce in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken, making it even more delicious!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cranberries:

Start by rinsing the fresh cranberries under cold water. Turn them over and check for any stems or damaged berries—remove those so you have the best quality for your sauce.

2. Combine Ingredients:

In a food processor or blender, add the fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, orange juice, and orange zest. This mix of ingredients will give your sauce a fresh, bright flavor.

3. Pulse to Desired Consistency:

Pulse the mixture several times until it reaches a finely chopped, sauce-like consistency. You want it to be both chunky and smooth, so avoid pureeing it completely!

4. Add Spice:

If you’d like, add in the optional ground cinnamon and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. Stir this in gently to mix it evenly throughout the sauce.

5. Chill the Sauce:

Transfer the mixture to a bowl or jar, making sure it’s covered well. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This chilling time is crucial because it allows the flavors to deepen and the sauce to thicken.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Once chilled, your cranberry sauce is ready to serve! You can enjoy it chilled or at room temperature with turkey, pork, or even as a spread on toast. It’s a delicious and easy addition to any meal!

Enjoy this quick and tangy no-cook cranberry sauce that’s bursting with fresh flavor!

Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries! Just make sure to thaw them completely before starting. Drain any excess liquid to maintain the right consistency for your sauce.

How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?

If you prefer your cranberry sauce less sweet, simply reduce the amount of sugar you add. Start with 1/2 cup of sugar, and taste the mixture before deciding if you’d like to add more.

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! This no-cook cranberry sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance. Just keep it stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

What Should I Serve It With?

This cranberry sauce pairs wonderfully with turkey, chicken, or pork. It’s also delicious spread on sandwiches or served with cheese and crackers for a festive appetizer!