Name: Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 12 oz Cranberries (fresh or frozen); 1 cup Water; ¾ cup Sugar; ¼ teaspoon Ground Cloves

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There’s something magical about the taste of homemade cranberry sauce, and I believe it all begins with my Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce. Picture this: a cozy kitchen filled with the aroma of sweet and tart cranberries simmering on the stove, the vibrant red hue brightening up your countertop. Growing up, cranberry sauce was a staple at our holiday dinners, and I remember the sense of anticipation as it bubbled away, transforming from simple ingredients into a luscious sauce. This simple recipe has been in my family for years, passed down from my grandmother, who insisted that every Thanksgiving dinner needed a batch of this vibrant sauce. What I love most is how easy it is to make and how it perfectly complements everything from a classic turkey to a holiday ham. Whether you’re hosting a large family gathering or simply planning a cozy dinner, this Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce is the perfect addition to your table.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
120 kcal

Protein:
0 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
0 g

Tools Used:
Large Pot, Wooden Spoon, Saucepan

What Makes This Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce Special

Tradition Meets Taste

One of the reasons I adore this recipe is its seamless blend of tradition and flavor. Each time I make this Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce, I’m transported back to those joyous family gatherings. It’s not just sauce; it’s a delicious reminder of the love and warmth shared at the dinner table.

Simplicity at Its Best

This recipe is incredibly straightforward, requiring just a handful of ingredients. It’s perfect for those who might feel intimidated by other elaborate holiday dishes. With fresh or frozen cranberries, some sugar, and a few spices, you can whip up a batch in no time.

Versatile Flavor

The sweet and tart combination of the cranberries makes this sauce so versatile! It can be served hot, cold, or at room temperature, allowing you to prepare it ahead of time without a hitch. It not only pairs beautifully with turkey at Thanksgiving but also adds a delightful twist to sandwiches or cheese platters.

Health Benefits

Cranberries are packed with antioxidants and vitamins, making this sauce not only delicious but also a healthy addition to your meals. It’s a great way to incorporate more fruit into your diet without sacrificing flavor. Plus, knowing that you made it from scratch is such a rewarding feeling!

Make-Ahead Magic

Another reason to love this recipe is its make-ahead nature. You can prepare it days in advance, which makes your holiday meal prep so much easier. Just store it in the fridge, and it’s ready to serve whenever you need it. This planning ahead allows you to enjoy more time with your loved ones during the festivities.

Customizable Creations

What’s fun about this Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce is that it’s a blank canvas! You can easily add your own twist with ingredients like orange zest, ginger, or even a hint of cinnamon. Experimenting with flavors can make each batch unique and tailored to your taste.

Main Ingredients for Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce

The ingredients for this Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce blend beautifully to create a sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Each component plays a crucial role, transforming simple cranberries into a delightful companion for your meals.

12 oz bag of fresh or frozen cranberries: The star of the show! Cranberries add a unique tartness, which is essential for a perfect sauce.
1 cup water: This helps to cook the cranberries down and form the right consistency.
¾ cup sugar: Sweetens the sauce, balancing the natural tartness of the cranberries.
¼ teaspoon ground cloves: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste.

Cooking Method for Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce

Making this Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce is a breeze, and the process is just as enjoyable as the final outcome! Let’s get started on creating this delightful sauce that’s bound to impress your guests.

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Make sure you have fresh or frozen cranberries, water, sugar, and ground cloves ready. This prep step helps streamline the cooking process.
In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries and water. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture gently as it heats up, watching for the cranberries to begin to pop. This is when the magic starts!
Once the mixture starts to boil, it’s time to add the sugar. Sprinkle it in gradually while stirring continuously. You’ll notice the cranberries begin to break down, and the mixture will become syrupy.
Lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer. Keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally. The sauce should bubble gently for about 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll want the sauce to thicken, so don’t rush this step!
As it cooks, you can use the back of a spoon or a potato masher to smash the cranberries. Be sure to leave some whole for texture!
Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove it from heat. This is an important moment; the sauce will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.
Let the sauce cool down to room temperature. You can serve it warm, but I love to chill it in the refrigerator for a couple of hours before serving. This enhances the flavors even more.
Transfer the cooled sauce into a serving dish or airtight container. If you’re not serving it right away, store it in the refrigerator until needed. Remember, it can be made up to three days in advance!
Finally, enjoy your Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce as a delightful addition to your holiday meals or any dinner!

Things Worth Knowing

Thickening Tip: If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer for a few additional minutes. Keep stirring to avoid sticking.
Freshness Matters: Use fresh cranberries if possible; they yield a better flavor. If using frozen, don’t thaw them before cooking.
Adjust Sweetness: Taste the sauce before removing it from heat. If it’s too tart for your liking, feel free to add a bit more sugar.
Serving Temperature: This sauce can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or chilled, making it versatile for any meal.

Substitutions and Tips

Creating the perfect Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce comes with some handy tips! Here’s how to enhance your experience.

Storage: Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze this sauce for up to two months. Just place it in a freezer-safe container and thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.
Pairing: This sauce pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, sandwiches, or even on pancakes!
Flavors: Consider adding different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a unique twist that reflects your taste.
Serving Dish: A beautiful glass bowl showcases the vibrant color of the sauce, making it an eye-catching addition to your holiday table.
Experiment: Don’t hesitate to experiment; try adding orange zest or ginger for extra flavor depth!

What to Pair With Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce

This Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce is not just for Thanksgiving; it’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed with a variety of meals! Here’s how to make the most of it:

Roasted Turkey: The classic pairing that never goes out of style! The tartness of the sauce complements the savory flavors of the turkey perfectly.
Ham: The sweetness of the sauce balances well with the salty flavor of ham, making it a delightful addition to your holiday feast.
Sandwiches: Use the sauce as a spread in sandwiches, especially with turkey or chicken, adding a burst of flavor.
Cheese Platters: Serve it alongside a cheese board. The contrast between the tangy sauce and creamy cheeses creates a delightful taste experience.
Breakfast Treat: Try it on waffles or pancakes for a festive breakfast option. It adds a refreshing touch to your morning routine!
Seasonal Salads: Incorporate it into salads for a touch of sweetness and color, particularly in winter and fall salads.

FAQ

Absolutely! This Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce can be made up to three days in advance. Just prepare it, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It not only saves time for your holiday meal prep but also allows the flavors to meld and develop even more!

If you find your Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce too tart for your taste, don’t worry! You can easily adjust the sweetness by adding a little more sugar while it’s simmering. Just stir it in gradually and taste as you go until you reach the perfect balance for your palate.

Yes, you can freeze your Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce. Just place it in a freezer-safe container, and it will last for up to two months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. This is a great way to enjoy the flavors of the holiday season all year round!

This versatile Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce can be served warm, chilled, or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, sandwiches, or as a vibrant topping on pancakes. Feel free to get creative with your serving styles!

Conclusion

The Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce is truly a holiday staple that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. With its sweet and tart notes, it’s a dish that you’ll find yourself craving long after the holidays are over. I encourage you to try making this delightful sauce; it’s simple, satisfying, and sure to impress your guests. Bring this recipe into your home and enjoy the warmth of its flavors at your next gathering.