Homemade Cranberry Sauce — Easy Holiday Side (Easy Recipe)
I fell in love with Homemade Cranberry Sauce the first year I roasted my own Thanksgiving turkey. My grandmother always served it from a tin, but the homemade version—tangy, bright, and studded with bursts of cranberry—felt like a little celebration in each spoonful. It quickly became my favorite part of the holiday plate and something I make year-round to brighten simple roasted meats or even spread on toast. Cranberries have a long history in North American cuisine, used by Indigenous peoples long before European settlers arrived; their tartness pairs beautifully with sweeteners and citrus, making them a timeless holiday classic.
Who is this recipe for?
- This Homemade Cranberry Sauce is perfect for busy hosts, holiday cooks, beginners, and anyone who wants a fresh, easy-to-make condiment with big flavor.
Core ingredients overview:
- Fresh cranberries, orange juice, sugar, water, and optional cinnamon combine to create a bright, balanced sauce that’s both tart and sweet—simple, reliable, and versatile.
Tools & Ingredients
Tools
- Medium saucepan — for cooking the cranberries evenly.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula — to stir without scratching your pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons — to ensure the right balance of sweetness and liquid.
- Citrus juicer or reamer — to extract fresh orange juice quickly.
- Fine-mesh strainer (optional) — for a smoother sauce if you prefer.
- Glass jar or airtight container — for storing the finished sauce.
Ingredients
- Fresh cranberries — provide vibrant tartness and a firm texture that becomes saucy when cooked.
- Orange juice — adds bright citrus notes and natural acidity to balance the sugar.
- Sugar — sweetens and helps thicken the sauce as the cranberries burst.
- Water — adjusts consistency and prevents scorching while the sauce cooks.
- Cinnamon (optional) — adds warm, cozy spice that deepens the flavor for holiday servings.
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange juice, sugar, and water.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 10–15 minutes, or until most cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened to your liking.
- Stir in cinnamon if desired, tasting and adjusting a pinch at a time so the spice does not overpower the cranberries.
- Allow the sauce to cool at room temperature; it will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Transfer to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate. The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
FAQ
Q: Can I freeze this recipe?
A: Yes — cranberry sauce freezes well. Place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving some headspace for expansion. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
A: Absolutely. Use the same amount of frozen cranberries; you may need an extra minute or two of cooking as they thaw and soften.
Q: How can I make this less sweet?
A: Reduce the sugar by a quarter to a third, or add a splash more orange juice or a teaspoon of lemon juice to increase acidity and balance sweetness.
Q: Can I make it with other flavorings besides cinnamon?
A: Yes — try a strip of orange zest, a splash of vanilla, or a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for different flavor profiles.
Tips & Tricks
- Taste as you go: Cranberries vary in tartness, so adjust the sugar and citrus to your palate.
- Don’t overcook: Simmer until burst but still slightly glossy; overcooking can make the sauce too thick once chilled.
- Use fresh-squeezed orange juice for the best bright flavor—bottled juice works in a pinch.
- Make ahead: The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making this a great make-ahead side for busy holiday days.
Conclusion
For more inspiration and variations, check out Homemade Cranberry Sauce – Sugar Spun Run for a classic take, Cranberry Sauce with Orange Juice Recipe for an orange-forward version, and Cranberry Sauce Recipe for additional tips and serving ideas.
Enjoy this homemade cranberry sauce with your holiday meal or share a jar with friends and family!