This vibrant orange cranberry sauce is the perfect mix of tart and sweet. With fresh cranberries and zesty orange juice, it brightens up any meal!
I love how easy it is to make—just cook, stir, and it’s done! It’s great on turkey, but don’t be surprised if you sneak spoonfuls right out of the bowl! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are ideal for this sauce, but frozen ones work just as well. They’re convenient since you can find them year-round. If you can’t find cranberries, consider using dried cranberries, but remember to adjust the sugar since they’re sweeter.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed juice gives the best flavor. If oranges aren’t available, bottled juice can work, but look for 100% juice, no sugar added. You can also substitute another juice, like apple or pineapple, for a different taste!
Sugar: Granulated sugar is the standard, but you can swap it with honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute if you’re looking for a healthier option. Just adjust the amount to your taste, as these alternatives might vary in sweetness.
Rosemary: This herb adds a unique touch, but if you’re not a fan, feel free to skip it! Instead, you can use mint or thyme for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs truly elevate the dish, but dried herbs could work in a pinch too.
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Cranberries for the Right Texture?
Cooking cranberries properly is key to achieving that perfect sauce texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by combining the cranberries and liquids in a saucepan. This helps them cook evenly.
- Bring it to a boil and watch for the cranberries to pop. This means they’re releasing their juices!
- Once boiling, turn the heat down to let them simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook until most cranberries have burst and the sauce thickens, about 10-15 minutes. If you like your sauce chunkier, you can stop cooking sooner!
Letting the sauce cool helps it thicken even more, and it can always be blended if you prefer a smoother texture. Happy cooking!
How to Make Orange Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 2-3 oranges)
- Zest of 1 orange (optional, for extra citrus flavor)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1-2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped (optional, for garnish and flavor)
- Orange slices for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 15 minutes for cooking, making a total of around 25 minutes. It’s quick to prepare, and you’ll be rewarded with a deliciously vibrant sauce that’s perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Cranberries:
Start by rinsing the cranberries under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities. Drain them well and set aside. If you’re using frozen cranberries, there’s no need to thaw them—just toss them right into the pot!
2. Combine Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, mix the rinsed cranberries, sugar, fresh orange juice, orange zest (if you’re using it), and the water. This combination will create a lovely tart and sweet flavor!
3. Cook the Mixture:
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. You’ll hear the cranberries start popping as they cook, which is a great sign! Once boiling, lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and help break up the cranberries as they burst.
4. Thicken and Cool:
Keep cooking until most of the cranberries have burst and the sauce has reached your desired thickness. Once done, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool slightly; it will continue to thicken as it cools.
5. Final Touches:
If you’re using fresh rosemary, stir it in now for an added flavor boost. Then, transfer the sauce to a serving bowl. Garnish with fresh orange slices and a sprig of rosemary to make it look extra festive!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your orange cranberry sauce can be served warm or chilled! It pairs wonderfully with turkey, chicken, or can even be enjoyed as a spread on sandwiches. Enjoy this bright, tangy sauce whenever you want a fresh, fruity twist!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work perfectly in this recipe. There’s no need to thaw them; just add them directly into the pot with the other ingredients. They will cook down nicely just like fresh cranberries.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
If you prefer a less sweet sauce, feel free to reduce the amount of sugar to your taste. Start by cutting it down by a quarter cup and adjust from there. You can always add more sugar if you find the sauce too tart after cooking!
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make this orange cranberry sauce ahead of time! It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors will meld beautifully as it sits, making it even tastier!
What’s the Best Way to Serve Leftover Sauce?
Leftover orange cranberry sauce is versatile! Serve it chilled as a spread on sandwiches, mix it into yogurt, or even use it as a topping for desserts like cheesecake or ice cream. Enjoy experimenting with different ways to include it in your meals!