Name: Easy Cranberry Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup granulated sugar (or 3/4 cup honey or maple syrup, plus more to taste); 3/4 cup water (preferably filtered); 12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for a bright, tangy, and delightfully simple addition to your holiday table or any dinner that deserves a pop of festive color and flavor, this Easy Cranberry Sauce Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine fresh cranberries simmering gently with just the right touch of sweetness to create a luscious sauce that’s both vibrant and versatile. It’s fuss-free, uses minimal ingredients, and elevates whatever dish it accompanies, bringing joyous bursts of tart and sweet with every bite. Whether you’re a cranberry sauce veteran or a first-time maker, this recipe will win your heart and your taste buds.

Easy Cranberry Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering a handful of simple, staple ingredients is all it takes to whip up this tasty sauce. Each plays a crucial role, from the natural tartness of cranberries to the sweet balance offered by sugar or honey, creating a perfect harmony of flavor and texture.

Granulated sugar (or honey or maple syrup): Sweetens the tart cranberries and helps create that silky, glossy finish.
Water (filtered preferred): The base that gently cooks the cranberries into tender bursts of flavor without overpowering the natural taste.
Fresh or frozen cranberries: The star ingredient—bright, vitamin-rich, and packed with tartness that turns magically sweet as they simmer.

How to Make Easy Cranberry Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Dissolve the Sweetener

Start by combining your choice of sweetener—whether classic granulated sugar or the natural warmth of honey or maple syrup—with water in a large saucepan. Heat it over medium, stirring until the sugar melts completely. This creates a smooth, sweet base that perfectly complements the cranberries without being overpowering.

Step 2: Add Cranberries and Simmer

Once your sweetener mixture is ready, add the cranberries and bring everything to a gentle boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer uncovered. This slow cooking allows the cranberries to burst open naturally, releasing their unique flavor and thickening the sauce. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and encourage even cooking—after about 12 to 15 minutes, your sauce will thicken beautifully.

Step 3: Adjust Sweetness and Cool

Your palate is your guide here. Taste the sauce and add more honey, maple syrup, or sugar if you prefer it sweeter. Once you’re happy with the balance, remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the sauce to cool to room temperature. This step helps it set to the perfect consistency.

How to Serve Easy Cranberry Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a touch of zest or herbs can really elevate the look and flavor of this sauce. Think freshly grated orange zest for a citrusy sparkle or a sprinkle of finely chopped rosemary or thyme to add an herbal note that pairs beautifully with savory dishes.

Side Dishes

This sauce is incredibly versatile, pairing wonderfully with roasted turkey, baked ham, or even grilled chicken. It also makes a sweet contrast on a cheese board or dolloped on your morning yogurt or oatmeal for a burst of seasonal flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve the sauce in a small, clear glass bowl to showcase its jewel-like red brilliance. You can also swirl it over whipped cream or ice cream or spoon it onto mini toasts or crackers as a tasty appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cranberry sauce keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Its flavors often develop further over time, making leftovers just as enjoyable as the first serving.

Freezing

If you want to prepare this sauce well in advance, it freezes wonderfully. Place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving some room for expansion. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and stir before serving.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in short bursts in the microwave. Add a splash of water if it thickened too much during storage, stirring until it reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries for this Easy Cranberry Sauce Recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones and often make the sauce even easier since they don’t require washing or sorting before use.

Is it possible to make this sauce without granulated sugar?

Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup for a more natural sweetness and a slight variation in flavor that’s equally delicious.

How thick should my cranberry sauce be?

The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable. It will thicken more as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems slightly runny while hot.

Can I add spices to the Easy Cranberry Sauce Recipe?

Definitely! Warm spices like cinnamon sticks, cloves, or a pinch of nutmeg can be added during simmering to introduce cozy autumnal flavors.

How long does cranberry sauce last after opening?

Stored properly in the refrigerator, it usually lasts about two weeks. Just make sure to keep it in a sealed container to maintain freshness.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about making your own cranberry sauce, especially when it’s as straightforward and delightful as this Easy Cranberry Sauce Recipe. It’s a little jar of joy that adds color, flavor, and cheer to any meal. So grab your saucepan, gather your ingredients, and enjoy creating a homemade classic that’s sure to become a family favorite for years to come.

Easy Cranberry Sauce Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 30 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: About 1 1/2 cups cranberry sauce 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A simple and easy homemade cranberry sauce recipe that uses fresh or frozen cranberries sweetened with granulated sugar, honey, or maple syrup, perfect for holiday meals and a flavorful addition to any dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Sweetener

1 cup granulated sugar (or 3/4 cup honey or maple syrup, plus more to taste)

Liquid

3/4 cup water (preferably filtered)

Main Ingredient

12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries

Instructions

Combine Sugar and Water: In a large saucepan, mix the granulated sugar (or honey or maple syrup) with the water. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously until the sugar dissolves completely.
Add Cranberries and Boil: Add the fresh or frozen cranberries to the saucepan. Increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Simmer and Thicken: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer uncovered. Stir occasionally as the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens, which usually takes about 12 to 15 minutes.
Adjust Sweetness and Cool: Taste the cranberry sauce and add more maple syrup, honey, or sugar if desired for extra sweetness. Once satisfied, remove the saucepan from heat and allow the sauce to cool to room temperature before serving.

Notes

Use fresh or frozen cranberries based on availability; the cooking time remains the same.
Adjust sweetness according to your preference by adding more sugar, honey, or maple syrup.
The sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
For a zestier flavor, consider adding a strip of orange peel or a cinnamon stick during simmering, then remove before serving.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Sauce
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: American