This tasty orange cinnamon cranberry sauce brings a burst of flavor to your table! The sweet oranges and warm spice make it perfect for any meal, especially during the holidays.
I love how easy it is to make! Just toss the ingredients in a pot, let them simmer, and you’re all set. Plus, it tastes even better the next day—if you can resist eating it all at once! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are key for their tartness. If they’re out of season, you can use frozen cranberries. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking; the flavor will still be great!
Granulated Sugar: This is what sweetens the sauce. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can try honey or maple syrup, but use them sparingly as they are sweeter than sugar.
Orange Juice and Zest: Freshly squeezed juice adds a bright flavor. If you’re short on fresh oranges, bottled juice works, but try to find the fresh-squeezed variety. The zest adds depth, so don’t skip it!
Cinnamon: A cinnamon stick adds a nice aromatic touch. Ground cinnamon is a fine substitute; just remember that a little goes a long way!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Cranberry Sauce without Burning It?
Cooking cranberry sauce may seem straightforward, but it’s easy to scorch it if the heat is too high. Follow these tips for perfect results:
- Start with medium heat to dissolve the sugar gently.
- Once boiling, reduce to a simmer. This allows the cranberries to pop without burning on the bottom.
- Stir often, especially as the mixture thickens. If it looks too thick, don’t hesitate to add a bit of water!
- Keep an eye on it—simmering should take about 10-15 minutes. It’s done when most cranberries have burst.
If you see any sticking at the bottom, gently scrape it. It’ll all blend back in and won’t ruin your sauce!
Delicious Orange Cinnamon Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional for extra cinnamon flavor)
- 1/4 cup water (if needed to adjust consistency)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation, followed by 15 minutes of cooking time. Including cooling time, you should set aside about 30-40 minutes in total. It’s quick, easy, and oh-so rewarding!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cranberries:
Start by rinsing the fresh cranberries under cold water. Check for any soft or damaged ones and discard those to ensure a high-quality sauce.
2. Combine Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, mix the cleaned cranberries, granulated sugar, fresh orange juice, orange zest, and the cinnamon stick. This mixture will create the wonderful flavors for your sauce!
3. Cooking Time!
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring occasionally. This helps dissolve the sugar completely. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer. You’ll notice the cranberries starting to pop—that’s a good sign!
4. Simmer Until Thick:
Let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If you like a smoother sauce, mash some of the cranberries with the back of a spoon.
5. Adjust Consistency:
If the sauce gets too thick for your liking, just add water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. This way, you can make it just how you like it!
6. Add Extra Flavor:
Once cooked, taste your sauce. If you want a touch more warmth, stir in the ground cinnamon at this point for that extra cinnamon kick.
7. Final Touches:
Remove the saucepan from heat and discard the cinnamon stick. Allow the sauce to cool slightly at room temperature. It will thicken as it sits.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the sauce to a serving bowl. If you’d like, add a small cinnamon stick or a sprig of fresh rosemary for a lovely garnish. Enjoy your vibrant cranberry sauce with holiday meals or even just on a turkey sandwich!
Your homemade orange cinnamon cranberry sauce is ready to impress friends and family alike!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them before use to ensure even cooking. No need to adjust the cooking time—just follow the same instructions!
How Should I Store Leftover Cranberry Sauce?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about a week. You can also freeze it! Just make sure to leave some room in the container for expansion—cranberry sauce can freeze for up to 3 months.
Can I Adjust the Sweetness?
Yes! If you prefer a less sweet sauce, feel free to reduce the sugar. Start with 3/4 cup and add more if needed after cooking. The natural tartness of the cranberries will shine through!
What Can I Serve This Cranberry Sauce With?
This sauce pairs beautifully with turkey, chicken, or pork dishes. It’s also delicious on sandwiches or served alongside cheese and crackers for a festive appetizer!