Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest 🍊✨

Cranberry sauce is a must-have for any holiday table, and this simple recipe elevates it with a burst of citrusy freshness. With just a few ingredients, you can make a tangy, sweet sauce that pairs perfectly with turkey, ham, or even desserts!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Bright & Fresh Flavor: The combination of tart cranberries and fresh orange juice creates a delicious contrast, while the optional orange zest adds an extra layer of citrusy brightness.
  • Quick & Easy: With just a few minutes of prep and a short cooking time, this sauce comes together in no time.
  • Perfect for Make-Ahead: Make it ahead of time, refrigerate, and let the flavors meld. The sauce thickens as it cools, giving it a perfect texture by the time you’re ready to serve.

How It’s Made:

  1. Combine sugar and orange juice, and bring to a boil until the sugar dissolves.
  2. Add fresh cranberries, a pinch of salt, and optional orange zest. Cook for about 12 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
  3. Let it cool and refrigerate to set—perfect for serving with your holiday feast!

Pro Tip: This sauce can be made up to a week in advance, giving you one less thing to worry about during holiday meal prep!

Enjoy this vibrant, flavorful cranberry sauce, and wow your guests with a fresh take on a holiday classic!

Cranberry sauce

Recipe by Ellen
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

30

minutes
Cooking time

40

minutes
Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 cup sugar

  • 1 cup orange juice

  • 12 oz cranberries

  • 1 tbsp orange zest, optional

  • Pinch of salt

Directions

  • Combine sugar and orange juice. Bring to a boil and allow the sugar to dissolve.
  • Add cranberries, a pinch of salt, and orange zest, and cook for about 12 minutes until they thicken and start to pop.
  • Remove from heat and refrigerate. The sauce will thicken more as it cools.

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