Description
Ruby-red, glossy, and bursting with sweet-tart flavor—this cranberry sauce is the unsung hero of any holiday table. With just a handful of ingredients and about 15 minutes of simmering magic, you’ll transform humble berries into a jewel-toned condiment that outshines the can by miles. It’s festive, make-ahead friendly, and guaranteed to earn you rave reviews.
Ingredients
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12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries
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1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
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1 cup water
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Zest of 1 orange (optional)
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¼ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
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Combine: In a medium saucepan, stir together cranberries, sugar, and water.
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Boil: Bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
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Simmer: Reduce heat to medium-low. Cook 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until berries burst (listen for the pops!). Sauce should coat the back of a spoon.
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Flavor Boost: Remove from heat. Stir in orange zest and/or cinnamon, if using.
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Cool: Transfer to a bowl. Let cool completely at room temp, then refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
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Citrus Sparkle: Replace water with orange juice for extra brightness.
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Spiced Up: Add a cinnamon stick, cloves, or star anise while simmering (remove before serving).
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Boozy Twist: Swap ¼ cup of water for bourbon, red wine, or orange liqueur.
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Savory Touch: Infuse with rosemary or thyme for a subtle herbal note.