This bright and tasty blueberry cranberry sauce is a fun twist on the classic. The sweet blueberries and tart cranberries combine to create a delicious side for any meal!
If you’re like me, you’ll find yourself enjoying it more than just on turkey day—it’s great on desserts too! Just spoon it over some ice cream for a treat! 🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are the star here, but you can also use frozen ones if fresh isn’t available. Just toss them in without thawing. I find that fresh cranberries offer a more vibrant flavor!
Blueberries: Like cranberries, feel free to use frozen blueberries. They’re usually picked at peak ripeness and flash-frozen, which keeps their flavor intact. I love a mix of both fresh and frozen for texture!
Sugar: This recipe calls for granulated sugar, but you can substitute with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor. If you’re reducing sugar intake, try using a sugar alternative like stevia.
Water: Instead of water, you can use orange juice for a fruity twist. This adds a citrusy note that goes well with the berries. I sometimes add a splash of orange juice, and it elevates the taste!
How Can I Ensure the Sauce Thickens Properly?
The key to a thick blueberry cranberry sauce is the cooking process. As the berries cook, they release their natural pectin, which helps to thicken the sauce. Here’s how to make sure it comes out just right:
- Cook on medium to low heat to prevent burning while allowing the berries to burst and break down.
- Stir occasionally, but don’t over-stir; you’ll want some of the whole berries to remain.
- If your sauce seems too runny, let it simmer a bit longer, keeping an eye on it to avoid sticking.
Let the sauce cool before serving. It will thicken more as it cools thanks to the pectin!
Blueberry Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 sprig of fresh rosemary (optional garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious blueberry cranberry sauce will take about 20 minutes to prepare, including cooking time. It’s quick, simple, and can be made ahead of time to save you some cooking stress come mealtime!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse the Berries:
Start by rinsing the cranberries and blueberries under cold water. Drain them well in a colander. This helps to remove any debris and ensures they are clean for cooking.
2. Combine Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed cranberries and blueberries, sugar, water, and the cinnamon stick. These ingredients will come together beautifully during cooking!
3. Bring to a Boil:
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir occasionally to help dissolve the sugar. You’ll start to hear the berries popping as they heat up!
4. Simmer the Sauce:
Once boiling, lower the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the berries burst and the sauce thickens. Stir gently to avoid breaking too many berries; we want some whole for texture!
5. Add Zest and Juice:
After simmering, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the lemon zest and fresh lemon juice. This will add a nice brightness to the sauce!
6. Cool and Garnish:
Discard the cinnamon stick and let the sauce cool slightly. It will continue to thicken as it cools. Once cooled to your liking, transfer to a serving bowl. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with a sprig of rosemary!
7. Serve:
Enjoy this sauce warm or chilled. It pairs wonderfully with turkey, chicken, or even as a topping for desserts like cheesecake or ice cream. Savor the delightful blend of sweet and tart!
Enjoy your flavorful blueberry cranberry sauce!
Can I Use Frozen Berries for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Both frozen cranberries and blueberries work perfectly. There’s no need to thaw them before using; just throw them in the pot directly from the freezer!
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness?
If you prefer a less sweet sauce, you can reduce the sugar to 3/4 cup or even use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Adjust according to your taste preference!
How Should I Store Leftover Cranberry Sauce?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just make sure to use a freezer-safe container!
Can I Add Other Flavors to the Sauce?
Sure! Feel free to add a splash of orange juice or zest for a citrusy twist, or even a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for added warmth. Customize it to suit your taste!