This Slow Cooker Cranberry Sauce is a sweet and tangy delight! Just toss the cranberries, sugar, and a splash of orange juice into your slow cooker, and let it do all the work.
The best part? You can focus on other dishes while this sauce bubbles away, filling your kitchen with a lovely aroma. I usually make extra because leftovers taste amazing on sandwiches! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are best for their tartness, but frozen cranberries work too. Just make sure they’re not sweetened. I often buy extra fresh cranberries during the season and freeze them for later use!
Granulated Sugar: The sugar helps balance the tartness of the cranberries. If you want a healthier option, try using honey or maple syrup, although you may need to adjust the amount to taste.
Orange Juice and Zest: Fresh orange juice adds brightness to the sauce. The zest enhances the orange flavor and fragrance. If you don’t have oranges, a splash of lemon juice can be a nice substitute.
Cinnamon: This is optional but adds warmth and depth. If you love spices, consider adding a pinch of ground ginger or nutmeg to give your sauce a unique twist!
How Do You Ensure the Sauce Thickens Perfectly?
Thickening cranberry sauce can be tricky, but here are some tips! Cooking on low for a longer time allows the cranberries to burst and release their natural pectin, thickening the sauce.
- Stir the sauce occasionally to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
- If your sauce is still too thin after cooking, you can mash some of the cranberries with a fork or cook it uncovered for a few minutes on high to evaporate excess liquid.
Letting it cool slightly also aids in thickening as it sets. I love to make this ahead of time so it can chill and develop its flavor!
Slow Cooker Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sauce:
- 12 oz (340g) fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 tbsp orange zest (optional)
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- 1-2 sprigs fresh rosemary for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Slow Cooker Cranberry Sauce takes about 10 minutes to prep and 2 to 3 hours to cook in the slow cooker. Overall, you’ll need a little over 2 hours to have a lovely, tangy sauce ready for your meals!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse and Prep the Cranberries:
Start by rinsing the cranberries under cold water in a colander. While you rinse, be sure to check for any soft or spoiled berries and toss them out.
2. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
Add the cleaned cranberries to your slow cooker. Pour in the fresh orange juice and sprinkle granulated sugar over the top. For an extra zing, add the orange zest, and if you like warm spices, sprinkle in the ground cinnamon. Finally, add a pinch of salt to balance all the flavors!
3. Stir Everything Together:
Using a spatula or a wooden spoon, gently stir the ingredients until everything is evenly coated. This will help distribute the flavors throughout the sauce as it cooks.
4. Cook the Sauce:
Now, cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Let it cook for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s done when the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened to your liking.
5. Cool and Serve!
Once your sauce is ready, turn off the slow cooker and let the sauce cool for a few minutes. It will thicken even more as it cools. Transfer the cranberry sauce to a serving bowl, and if you like, garnish it with a sprig of fresh rosemary for a lovely touch.
6. Enjoy!
Serve your Slow Cooker Cranberry Sauce warm or chilled as a perfect side dish for holiday meals or as a zesty condiment for sandwiches. Enjoy the lovely flavors!
This recipe yields a rich, tangy cranberry sauce with a vibrant deep red color and a fragrant hint of citrus from the orange juice. It’s sure to become a favorite at your gatherings!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work great for this recipe. Just make sure they’re not sweetened. You can throw them straight into the slow cooker without thawing first!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Cranberry Sauce?
You can store leftover cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It also freezes well for up to three months, so feel free to make a double batch!
Can I Adjust the Sugar Amount?
Yes, you can adjust the sugar to your taste preference! If you like it on the tart side, try reducing the sugar by a quarter or a half. Keep in mind that the sweetness balances the tartness of the cranberries, so make sure not to cut it too drastically!
What’s the Best Way to Serve Cranberry Sauce?
This sauce is perfect for holiday dinners! Serve it as a side with turkey or ham, or enjoy it on a turkey sandwich. It can also be used on oatmeal or yogurt for a delicious breakfast twist!