27 Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce Recipes for Thanksgiving & Christmas

Cranberry sauce is a must-have side for any Thanksgiving or Christmas feast, and homemade versions always steal the show. Whether you’re looking for the best cranberry sauce recipe, a twist on the classic, or a simple cranberry relish, there’s something for everyone.

From easy homemade cranberry sauce to variations like cranberry sauce with Jello or a cranberry relish, these recipes offer the perfect balance of tart and sweet, making them the ideal complement to holiday meals and leftovers.

Fresh Cranberry Orange Sauce

Ditch the store-bought version and whip up a simple, vibrant cranberry sauce at home. With a hint of orange zest, it’s the perfect addition to holiday meals.

Yield: 3 cups
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

  • ¼ cup fresh orange juice
  • Zest from one orange (about 2 tablespoons)
  • ½ cup sugar, or adjust to your taste
  • 1 (12-ounce) bag fresh cranberries
  • ¾ cup water

Instructions:

  1. In a medium pot, combine the water, orange juice, orange zest, and sugar. Stir over medium heat until the sugar is completely dissolved.
  2. Add the cranberries and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened.
  3. Allow to cool to room temperature before serving, letting it continue to thicken as it cools.

Cranberry Sauce with Honey

Bright and tangy cranberry sauce sweetened naturally with honey or maple syrup. This easy recipe highlights fresh cranberries with a hint of citrus zest for extra flavor.

Yield: 2 cups
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 12 ounces fresh cranberries (1 bag)
  • ½ cup honey or maple syrup
  • ½ cup water
  • Zest of 1 medium orange (about 1 teaspoon)
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon and/or ¼ cup fresh orange juice

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the cranberries thoroughly and pick out any overly soft berries.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, honey, and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to medium-low. Cook for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in the orange zest. For added depth, stir in cinnamon or a splash of orange juice to taste. Adjust sweetness if needed.
  4. Let the sauce cool to thicken further. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks in a covered container.

Tips:

  • Make it Vegan: Substitute honey with maple syrup.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare up to 2 days in advance; refrigerate and bring to room temperature before serving.

Homestyle Canned Cranberry Sauce

Transform canned cranberry sauce into a homemade-tasting holiday favorite with just a few simple additions. This enhanced cranberry sauce is a delicious, easy side for Thanksgiving or Christmas.

Yield: 3 cups
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 (14-ounce) can whole berry cranberry sauce
  • 1 (14-ounce) can jellied cranberry sauce
  • ¼ cup orange juice (fresh-squeezed recommended)
  • 3 tablespoons light brown sugar, packed
  • ½–1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, adjust to taste)

Instructions:

  1. Combine the whole berry sauce, jellied sauce, orange juice, brown sugar, and cinnamon (if using) in a medium saucepan. Stir until well mixed.
  2. Heat over medium until it reaches a gentle boil, then reduce to low. Simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, and break up any larger jelly pieces by pressing them against the pan.
  3. Remove from heat and let cool for 15 minutes before serving.

Cranberry Sauce with Walnut

Inspired by Boston Market’s beloved cranberry side, this relish is a deliciously sweet and tangy complement to holiday turkey or roast chicken.

Yield: 6–8 servings
Total Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 orange (zested and juiced)
  • 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries (about 8 ounces)
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • ¼ cup chopped walnut pieces

Instructions:

  1. Finely grate the zest of half the orange into a medium saucepan, then squeeze in all of its juice.
  2. Add the cranberries, sugar, and chopped walnuts to the saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries start to pop and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat and let cool before serving.

Maple-Sweetened Cranberry Sauce

A holiday favorite, this cranberry sauce combines pure maple syrup, fresh orange, and a hint of cinnamon for a beautifully balanced and naturally sweet flavor.

Yield: 8 servings
Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries
  • ½ cup pure maple syrup
  • Zest of 1 medium orange
  • Juice of 1 medium orange
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ cup water

Instructions:

  1. Rinse cranberries in a colander under cold water, discarding any damaged ones.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, maple syrup, orange zest, orange juice, and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until cranberries pop and the mixture thickens, about 20 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat, stir in cinnamon, and let the sauce cool to room temperature. Transfer to a bowl and refrigerate until chilled.

This cranberry sauce can be prepared up to 10 days ahead and kept in the refrigerator. It also freezes well for up to 4 months.

Cranberry Sauce with Brandy

An elevated twist on traditional cranberry sauce, this recipe combines the bold flavors of orange zest, fresh cranberries, and a hint of brandy. Perfectly suited for holiday gatherings, this sauce keeps well in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Yield: 4 cups (12 servings)
Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups water
  • ⅔ cup orange zest
  • 2 cups white sugar
  • ⅔ cup orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 3 cups fresh cranberries
  • 1 tablespoon brandy

Instructions:

  1. Begin by sterilizing four ½-pint jars in simmering water. Set aside lids and rings, washing them in warm, soapy water.
  2. In a small pan, combine water and orange zest, cover, and bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Drain, keeping the zest and reserving ⅓ cup of the cooking liquid.
  3. Add the zest, reserved liquid, sugar, orange juice, and lemon juice to the pan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Stir in cranberries and increase the heat to medium-high. Boil until cranberries pop and the sauce thickens (about 10 minutes). To check for consistency, place a small spoonful on a cold plate; if it sets, it’s ready.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in brandy. Pour the sauce into prepared jars, leaving ½ inch of space at the top. Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature, then seal and refrigerate.

Best Cranberry Sauce for Thanksgiving

This quick cranberry sauce recipe is sweetened with orange juice and spiced with cinnamon for a perfect balance of sweet and tart. With just a few ingredients, it’s an easy yet flavorful side for your holiday feast.

Yield: 8 servings
Total Time: 11 minutes

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup orange juice
  • 12 oz fresh cranberries, rinsed and picked through
  • ½ cup water
  • Pinch of salt
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 piece of orange peel

Instructions:

  1. In a large saucepan, combine sugar, orange juice, and water over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
  2. Add the cranberries, salt, cinnamon stick, and orange peel. Stir to combine.
  3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until most cranberries have popped, leaving a few whole for texture.
  4. Allow the sauce to cool for at least 30 minutes, then cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. Can be prepared up to 3 days in advance.

Ocean Spray Cranberry Sauce

This easy cranberry sauce recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for any holiday meal. Ready in under 20 minutes, it can be served warm or made ahead and chilled for later.

Yield: 8 servings
Total Time: 17 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 12 oz whole cranberries (fresh or frozen)

Instructions:

  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the water and sugar, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
  2. Add cranberries and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes, until most cranberries have burst. For a smoother texture, press the cranberries against the side of the pan as they start to pop.
  3. Remove from heat. Serve warm or let cool to room temperature, allowing the sauce to thicken.

Cranberry Sauce with Orange Juice

Classic cranberry sauce with a refreshing twist of orange juice, creating the perfect balance of tart and sweet. A holiday essential ready in just 20 minutes!

Yield: 12 servings
Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup white sugar
  • 1 cup orange juice
  • 1 (12-ounce) package fresh cranberries

Instructions:

  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar and orange juice, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
  2. Add cranberries and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes or until cranberries begin to pop.
  3. Transfer the sauce to a serving bowl and let it cool. The sauce will thicken as it cools, making it even more delicious to serve. Enjoy!

Cranberry Sauce with Grand Marnier

This sweet-tart cranberry sauce brings out festive flavors with a hint of Grand Marnier and fresh orange zest. Quick to prepare, it’s an ideal addition to your Thanksgiving or Christmas table.

Yield: 4 servings
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 2 bags cranberries, fresh or frozen (12 oz each)
  • 1½ cups cane sugar
  • ½ cup orange juice
  • 4 tablespoons Grand Marnier or Cognac
  • 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest

Instructions:

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, and orange juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
  2. Cook, stirring often, for about 10 minutes until the mixture becomes syrupy.
  3. Add the Grand Marnier and orange zest, and continue cooking on low for another 10 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat and garnish with freshly grated orange zest for a festive touch. Serve warm or chilled.

Homemade Cranberry Sauce (No Orange Juice)

For a refreshing twist, this cranberry sauce skips the orange juice for a blend of pomegranate and cherry juice. Simple to prepare, it brings a balanced sweet-tart flavor to your holiday meal.

Yield: 6 servings
Total Time: 17 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz fresh cranberries
  • ½ cup pomegranate cherry juice
  • ½ cup water
  • ⅓–½ cup white sugar (adjust to taste)

Instructions:

  1. In a pot, combine cranberries, juice, water, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until the sauce thickens. Place a wooden spoon over the pot to prevent bubbling over.
  2. Taste and adjust the sweetness as desired; add more sugar for a sweeter sauce if needed.
  3. Store in the refrigerator or serve warm.

Bob Evan’s Cranberry Sauce

This cranberry relish offers a delightful sweet and tart balance, enhanced with a hint of curry for added depth. Simple to make, it’s a healthy twist on traditional cranberry sauce that’s perfect for the holidays.

Ingredients

  • 1 kg fresh cranberries
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 500 g sugar
  • 3 tablespoons curry powder
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cranberries and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until the cranberries begin to soften.
  2. Add sugar, curry powder, lemon juice, and salt. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries are tender and the mixture is well combined.
  3. If using frozen cranberries, adjust cooking time as needed until they reach a soft consistency.
  4. While still hot, spoon the relish into sterilized jars and seal them tightly. Let the jars cool upside down for 10 minutes before turning them right-side up.
  5. Serve warm or store in the refrigerator. Enjoy!

Cranberry Sauce with Apple

This Cranberry Apple Sauce adds a gentle twist to the traditional Thanksgiving staple, blending tart cranberries with sweet apples for a well-rounded flavor.

Makes: 12 servings (¼ cup each)
Ingredients

  • 12 ounces fresh cranberries, picked over
  • 1 cup tart apple, peeled and diced
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup water
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, bring sugar, water, cinnamon, and salt to a boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
  2. Add cranberries and apples, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until the cranberries begin to pop and the sauce slightly thickens.
  3. Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature or chill before serving.

2-Ingredient Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce

Quick, easy, and packed with fresh flavors, this Instant Pot cranberry sauce needs only three ingredients. Perfect for when you want homemade sauce with minimal effort.

Makes: 10 servings
Ingredients

  • 12 oz fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
  • 1 cup sugar
  • ½ cup water

Instructions

  1. Rinse cranberries, removing any shriveled ones and stems.
  2. Add cranberries, water, and sugar to the Instant Pot, stirring to mix evenly. Secure the lid with the rubber seal in place, and set the top valve to SEAL.
  3. Select the MANUAL setting, then set the timer for 3 minutes and press START.
  4. Once the timer ends, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes.
  5. After 10 minutes, carefully turn the valve to “release” to let out any remaining steam, then open the lid. Stir the sauce and let it cool before serving.

Healthy Cranberry Sauce (No Sugar)

Skip the canned cranberry sauce and opt for this wholesome, homemade version. It’s quick, flavorful, and naturally sweetened with stevia, giving you the perfect balance of tart and sweet.

Yield: 3 cups
Ingredients

  • 1 bag fresh cranberries (8–10 oz)
  • 2 teaspoons orange zest
  • ⅓ cup stevia
  • ½ cup water
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large saucepan, combine cranberries, water, orange zest, and stevia. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then lower to medium-low and simmer for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cranberries burst and sauce thickens.
  2. For a smoother texture, mash the cranberries with a fork or potato masher as desired. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and cinnamon, if using.
  3. Let the sauce cool, and it will thicken further. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Amazing Pineapple Cranberry Sauce

A refreshing twist on traditional cranberry sauce, this recipe combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of pineapple. Perfect for gatherings, it’s sure to please even those who aren’t fans of classic cranberry dishes.

Yield: 10 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Additional Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 (16-ounce) can pineapple chunks with juice
  • Water, as needed
  • 1 cup white sugar
  • 1 (12-ounce) bag fresh cranberries

Instructions:

  1. Drain the juice from the pineapple can into a measuring cup. Add enough water to reach a total of 1 cup of liquid.
  2. In a saucepan, combine the pineapple juice mixture and sugar. Bring to a boil, stirring continuously.
  3. Add the cranberries and return to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes, until the cranberries burst.
  4. Stir in the pineapple chunks and allow the sauce to cool to room temperature before serving.

Classic Cranberry Sauce

This classic, make-ahead cranberry sauce is an essential addition to Thanksgiving dinners, balancing tart and sweet flavors in every bite.

Yield: 2 1/4 cups (about 9 servings)
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (200g) organic cane sugar
  • 1 cup (250ml) water
  • 4 cups fresh or frozen cranberries (one 12-ounce package)
  • Optional add-ins: chopped pecans, orange zest, raisins, currants, blueberries, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the Cranberries: Place cranberries in a colander, rinse, and pick out any damaged ones.
  2. Boil Water and Sugar: Combine water and sugar in a medium saucepan over high heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Cook Cranberries: Add cranberries to the pot and bring back to a boil. Lower heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until most cranberries burst.
  4. Add Optional Ingredients: For extra flavor, stir in chopped pecans, orange zest, or spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice as desired.
  5. Cool and Thicken: Remove from heat, allow sauce to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate until thickened. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Cherry Cranberry Relish with Jello

This tangy-sweet cherry cranberry relish brings a vibrant twist to any holiday meal. The mix of cranberries, citrus, and nuts in a cherry Jello base adds both flavor and texture to classic dishes.

Ingredients:

  • 6 oz Cherry Jello
  • 2 cups boiling water
  • 12 oz fresh or thawed cranberries
  • 1 medium orange (zested and segmented)
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 1/2 cup pecans
  • 1/2 cup walnuts

Instructions:

  1. Dissolve Jello: In an 8×8″ glass pan, dissolve the cherry Jello with boiling water, stirring until completely clear.
  2. Prepare Fruit and Nut Mixture: In a food processor, pulse together the cranberries, orange zest and segments, sugar, celery, and nuts until finely chopped (leave some texture). Avoid over-processing to keep a chunky consistency.
  3. Combine: Add the fruit and nut mixture into the dissolved Jello and stir thoroughly to blend.
  4. Refrigerate: Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour. After 1 hour, stir to break up the Jello slightly, then cover again and refrigerate until fully set.
  5. Serve: Break up the mixture with a spoon before serving. This relish pairs perfectly with Thanksgiving turkey, chicken, or even as a topping for cottage cheese or yogurt at breakfast.

Cranberry Sauce with Pecans

This vibrant cranberry sauce combines the brightness of fresh orange with the crunch of toasted pecans, creating a deliciously textured side for your holiday feast.

Ingredients:

  • 1 (12 oz) bag cranberries
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
  • 1 medium seedless orange, diced (remove peel and pith)
  • 2/3 cup toasted pecans, finely chopped

Instructions:

  1. Toast Pecans: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast until aromatic, about 5 minutes. Set aside.
  2. Cook Cranberries: In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and orange zest. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves and cranberries burst, about 10–12 minutes, until the mixture thickens slightly.
  3. Add Orange and Pecans: Remove from heat and gently stir in the diced orange and toasted pecans.
  4. Chill and Serve: Transfer sauce to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate until cold. For extra texture, top with additional finely chopped pecans just before serving.

Ina Garten’s Make-Ahead Cranberry Sauce

A perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, this cranberry sauce is an ideal Thanksgiving side. It’s easy to prepare in advance and makes a wonderful addition to turkey or as a spread for leftover sandwiches.

Ingredients:

  • 1 (12-ounce) bag fresh cranberries, rinsed and picked over
  • 1¾ cups sugar
  • 1 Granny Smith apple, peeled, cored, and chopped
  • Zest and juice of 1 orange
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 cup water

Instructions:

  1. Cook Cranberries: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water. Cook over medium heat for 5–10 minutes, or until the cranberry skins begin to pop open.
  2. Add Fruits and Simmer: Add the chopped apple, orange zest and juice, and lemon zest and juice. Continue cooking for 15–20 minutes, until the sauce thickens and the apple pieces are soft.
  3. Cool and Store: Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool completely; it will thicken further as it cools. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Slow Cooker Cranberry Sauce

This easy slow-cooker cranberry sauce is a hands-off way to prepare a delicious, customizable holiday side. Perfect for adding your favorite sweeteners and spices to taste!

Ingredients:

  • 12 ounces fresh cranberries
  • ½ cup orange juice
  • ½ cup water
  • ⅓ cup maple syrup, granulated or brown sugar, or preferred sweetener (adjust to taste)
  • Optional: splash of bourbon or red wine, orange zest, pinch of ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, chopped walnuts, or vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Combine Ingredients: Place all ingredients in a slow cooker and stir to mix thoroughly.
  2. Cook: Cover and cook on high for 3–4 hours or on low for 7–8 hours, until the cranberries have burst and the sauce is bubbly.
  3. Adjust Flavors and Serve: Stir in any additional sweetener or flavor add-ins if desired. Serve warm. Note: The sauce will thicken as it cools.

Apple Cider Cranberry Sauce

A delicious twist on classic cranberry sauce, combining fresh apple, apple cider, and maple syrup for a lightly spiced, mildly sweet, and slightly tart flavor—perfect for your Thanksgiving table.

Ingredients:

  • 2 (12-ounce) bags fresh cranberries
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup pure maple syrup (or substitute with additional ½ cup sugar)
  • 1 small sweet apple (peeled and finely diced)
  • ¾ cup apple cider, plus extra if needed
  • 1 cinnamon stick

Instructions:

  1. Combine Ingredients: Place cranberries, sugar, maple syrup, diced apple, apple cider, and cinnamon stick in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
  2. Simmer and Adjust Sweetness: Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst, the sauce thickens, and apples are tender. Taste and, if desired, add more sugar or maple syrup for extra sweetness; cook a few more minutes.
  3. Cool and Serve: Remove the cinnamon stick and let the sauce cool slightly, then refrigerate. For a thinner sauce, add a few tablespoons of apple cider before serving. Enjoy!

Cranberry Sauce with Brown Sugar

A cozy, slightly sweet cranberry sauce with hints of orange and vanilla, perfect for holiday meals. This easy recipe takes just 20 minutes on the stove, and you can use either fresh or frozen cranberries.

Ingredients:

  • 1 (12-ounce) bag cranberries, rinsed
  • ¾ cup water (150g)
  • ¼ cup fresh orange juice (60ml), from about ½ large orange
  • ¾ cup packed light or dark brown sugar (150g)
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Cranberries: Rinse cranberries and set aside ½ cup for extra texture at the end.
  2. Cook the Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine remaining cranberries, water, orange juice, and brown sugar. Stir occasionally as the mixture simmers. Once simmering, reduce heat to low-medium and continue cooking for about 15 minutes, until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened.
  3. Finish and Serve: Remove from heat and stir in the reserved cranberries, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Let the sauce cool; it will continue to thicken as it cools. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Bourbon Cranberry Sauce

Bold and tangy, this cranberry sauce has a hint of bourbon that adds a warm twist to the traditional flavors of orange and cranberry.

Ingredients:

  • 2 (12 oz) packages cranberries
  • 2/3 cup white sugar
  • 1 1/3 cups brown sugar
  • 3/4 cup fresh orange juice
  • 3/4 cup water
  • Zest of 1 orange, plus extra for garnish
  • 1–3 tablespoons bourbon (to taste)

Instructions:

  1. Combine Ingredients: Place cranberries, sugars, orange juice, water, orange zest, and bourbon in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
  2. Cook Until Thickened: Stir occasionally and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until most of the liquid has reduced and the cranberries have popped. Remove from heat and allow to rest for at least 15 minutes.
  3. Serve or Store: Garnish with extra orange zest before serving, if desired. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, reheating before serving if preferred.

Cranberry Chutney Sauce

A delightful blend of tart cranberries, warming spices, and fresh fruits, this chutney-style cranberry sauce is perfect for pairing with holiday meals.

Yield: 4 cups

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups fresh cranberries
  • 1 cup raisins or dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup white sugar
  • 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon fresh minced ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup finely minced onion
  • 1/2 cup peeled and chopped Granny Smith apple
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped celery

Instructions:

  1. Simmer the Base: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, raisins, white sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat and let it simmer on low for 5-7 minutes, until the cranberries begin to pop.
  2. Add Fresh Ingredients: Stir in the onion, apple, and celery, then continue cooking for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chutney starts to thicken.
  3. Cool and Store: Transfer the chutney to a container and allow it to cool slightly. Refrigerate overnight for best flavor.

Gluten-Free Cranberry Sauce (Vegan)

This rich and vibrant cranberry sauce is easy to make with just four ingredients. Its sweet-tart flavor is perfect for holiday meals, and it’s both vegan and gluten-free.

Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 1 (16 oz) jar

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 4 cups fresh cranberries, halved

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Base: In a large pot, combine sugar and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved.
  2. Simmer the Sauce: Add halved cranberries and lemon juice, returning the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 15 minutes until it thickens to a jam-like consistency.
  3. Cool and Store: Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature before transferring it to a sterilized glass jar. Store in the refrigerator.

Low Sugar Homemade Cranberry Sauce

Skip the canned cranberry sauce and enjoy this lightly sweetened homemade version! Perfect for pairing with your Thanksgiving turkey and easy to prepare in just 10 minutes.

Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: About 2 cups

Ingredients:

  • 1 (12 oz) bag fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
  • ⅓ cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
  • ⅔ cup water
  • ½ cup granulated sugar, cane sugar, or raw sugar

Instructions:

  1. Combine Ingredients: Place cranberries, orange juice, water, and sugar in a saucepan. Stir and bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.
  2. Cook the Sauce: Let it gently boil for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened.
  3. Cool and Store: Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. Transfer to a covered container and refrigerate until chilled and set.

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