The holiday season is just around the corner, and you know what that means: a plethora of festive gatherings, family traditions, and delicious dishes to share. And at the heart of many of these celebrations is the humble cranberry sauce. Whether you’re a traditionalist or an innovator in the kitchen, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 mouthwatering cranberry sauce recipes that are sure to become new holiday favorites.
From classic homemade sauces to creative twists featuring flavors like orange zest, maple bourbon, and ginger, these recipes offer something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to add a pop of color to your holiday table or create a show-stopping side dish, we’ve gathered the best of the best in one place. So go ahead, get cooking, and make this holiday season one to remember!
Classic Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Classic Homemade Cranberry Sauce Recipe
A timeless favorite, this homemade cranberry sauce is a staple for any holiday gathering. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you’ll be enjoying the sweet and tangy flavors of the season in no time.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup water
- Piece of orange zest (optional)
Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and water.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the berries have popped and the sauce has thickened.
- Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
- Strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any remaining solids, if desired. Stir in orange zest, if using.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Yield: About 2 cups of cranberry sauce
Orange Zest Cranberry Sauce
This tangy and sweet sauce combines the flavors of fresh cranberries, orange zest, and a hint of spice to create a perfect accompaniment to your holiday meals.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, orange zest, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Refrigerate until chilled before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spiced Cranberry Sauce with Cinnamon
This sweet and tangy spiced cranberry sauce is a perfect addition to your holiday table, infused with the warmth of cinnamon. Simmered with fresh cranberries, sugar, and spices, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (60ml) water
– 2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Honey Sweetened Cranberry Sauce
This honey sweetened cranberry sauce is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, making it an ideal accompaniment to your holiday meals.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp pure honey
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 tsp orange zest
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, honey, water, and orange zest.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
4. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Maple Bourbon Cranberry Sauce
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this rich and tangy maple bourbon cranberry sauce. A perfect blend of sweet, sour, and savory flavors that’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup pure Canadian maple syrup
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey (or substitute with apple cider or orange juice)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, maple syrup, bourbon (or substitute), sugar, and orange zest.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
5. Allow the flavors to meld together at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Ginger Infused Cranberry Sauce
This sweet and tangy sauce is a perfect combination of flavors for the holiday season. By infusing cranberries with fresh ginger, you’ll create a unique and delicious condiment to accompany your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup (120ml) orange juice
– 1/4 cup (60ml) granulated sugar
– 2 inches (5cm) piece of fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon (15ml) water
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange juice, sugar, and sliced ginger.
3. Add the water and bring to a boil over high heat.
4. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Pineapple Cranberry Sauce
A sweet and tangy sauce perfect for topping yogurt, oatmeal, or using as a dip for your favorite snacks.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine pineapple juice, cranberry sauce, sugar, honey, and orange zest.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking occasionally.
3. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in salt.
5. Let cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Apple Cider Cranberry Sauce
This sweet and tangy sauce is a perfect accompaniment to your holiday meals, incorporating the flavors of apple cider and fresh cranberries. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying this delicious condiment in no time.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup (240ml) apple cider
– 1/2 cup (120ml) granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon (15ml) orange zest
– 2 tablespoons (30ml) orange juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, apple cider, sugar, orange zest, and orange juice.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the salt.
5. Let cool completely before refrigerating or freezing.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rosemary Cranberry Sauce
A fragrant and flavorful condiment perfect for accompanying roasted meats, cheeses, or as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary (about 1 tablespoon chopped)
– 1/4 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, honey, and rosemary.
3. Add the orange juice and water to the saucepan.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
5. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Port Wine Cranberry Sauce
This sweet and tangy Port wine cranberry sauce is a perfect accompaniment to your holiday meals, adding a rich and sophisticated flavor profile. Its deep red color and fruity aroma will elevate your turkey, roast beef, or pork dishes to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup (250ml) Port wine (ruby or tawny work well)
– 1/2 cup (125g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (60g) water
– 1 tablespoon (15g) orange zest
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, Port wine, sugar, water, orange zest, and cinnamon.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cranberry Sauce with Fresh Mint
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this refreshing twist on classic cranberry sauce. This sweet and tangy condiment combines the flavors of fresh cranberries, mint, and a hint of citrus.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup (60ml) granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons (30ml) freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon (15ml) water
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and mint leaves.
3. Add the water and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vanilla Bean Cranberry Sauce
Transform your holiday meals with this sweet and tangy Vanilla Bean Cranberry Sauce. This recipe combines the flavors of fresh cranberries, creamy vanilla bean, and a hint of sweetness to create a delicious condiment perfect for topping turkey, yogurt, or oatmeal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup (60ml) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) water
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, and vanilla bean.
3. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in orange zest, if using.
5. Let cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pear and Cranberry Sauce
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of pears with the tanginess of cranberries to create a delicious and versatile sauce perfect for topping yogurt, oatmeal, or using as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and diced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the pears, cranberries, sugar, honey, lemon juice, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pears are tender and the cranberries have popped.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jalapeño Cranberry Sauce
Add a unique twist to your holiday meals with this Jalapeño Cranberry Sauce! The perfect blend of sweet and spicy, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, jalapeños, and orange zest.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
This spicy-sweet sauce is perfect for topping turkey, pork, or as a dip for crackers or cheese. Enjoy!
Lemon Ginger Cranberry Sauce
A tangy and sweet sauce perfect for topping yogurt, oatmeal, or using as a glaze for meats or cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, lemon juice, and ginger.
3. Add the water to the mixture and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Pomegranate Cranberry Sauce
This sweet and tangy sauce combines the flavors of pomegranate, cranberries, and citrus for a unique twist on traditional cranberry sauce. Perfect as a topping for turkey or yogurt, or as a side dish for your holiday feast.
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/2 cup pomegranate juice (fresh or bottled)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons orange juice
• 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, pomegranate juice, sugar, orange juice, and orange zest.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the salt.
5. Let the sauce cool to room temperature before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cardamom Spiced Cranberry Sauce
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this aromatic and flavorful cranberry sauce infused with the warm, sweet spices of cardamom. This unique twist on a classic recipe is perfect for serving alongside turkey, pork, or as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 green cardamom pods, crushed
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, crushed cardamom, orange zest, and orange juice.
3. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cranberry Sauce with Orange Liqueur
This tangy and sweet cranberry sauce gets a boost of citrus flavor from the addition of orange liqueur, perfect for topping your favorite holiday dishes.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Grand Marnier)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange liqueur, and water.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in the orange zest.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cranberry Sauce with Dried Cherries
This flavorful sauce combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of dried cherries, perfect for topping your favorite holiday dishes or using as a condiment.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (60g) water
– 1/2 cup (120g) dried cherries, chopped
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 2 tablespoons orange juice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, and chopped dried cherries.
3. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the mixture has thickened.
4. Stir in the orange zest and juice.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Cranberry Sauce
This recipe makes a deliciously flavored cranberry sauce with minimal effort, perfect for the holidays or any time of the year. Simply add your ingredients to the slow cooker and let it do the work!
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (60ml) orange juice
– 2 tbsp (30g) grated orange zest
– 1 tsp (5g) ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Add all the ingredients to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. Remove from heat and stir to combine.
4. Let it cool before refrigerating or freezing.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Summary
Get ready to elevate your holiday meals with these 20 delicious cranberry sauce recipes! From classic homemade to innovative flavor combinations, we’ve got you covered. Try adding orange zest for a burst of citrus, or infusing with ginger and cinnamon for warm spices. Honey sweetened and maple bourbon versions offer a touch of sweetness, while pineapple and apple cider add fruity twists. For a savory spin, try rosemary, port wine, or jalapeño cranberry sauces. Whatever your taste, there’s a recipe on this list to make your holiday gatherings unforgettable.
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