Cranberry Orange Sauce

When Thanksgiving rolls around, the kitchen comes alive with the scent of Cranberry Orange Sauce. I have fond memories of my family gathering around the table, the vibrant colors of the season reflected in our dishes. It’s not just any sauce; it’s the star that brightens up the turkey and stuffing, adding a fresh twist that perfectly balances the savory flavors of the feast. The tartness of the cranberries combined with the zesty orange creates a melody of tastes that dance on your palate. I remember the first time I made this sauce, the satisfaction of seeing my loved ones enjoy it, their faces lighting up with each spoonful. It’s a tradition that I look forward to every year, and now I want to share that joy with you.

What’s In This Cranberry Orange Sauce

This Cranberry Orange Sauce is made with just a few essential ingredients that work in perfect harmony. The key players include fresh cranberries, which provide a tangy base, and oranges that add a bright zest. The pure maple syrup brings sweetness, while water and a cinnamon stick deepen the flavor profile, making this sauce a delightful blend of tart, sweet, and spicy.

• 3 cups fresh or frozen cranberries: This is the star of the show. These little berries are tart and become juicy and soft when cooked, creating a beautiful sauce.
• 1/3 cup pure maple syrup: This natural sweetener enhances the tartness of the cranberries while adding a rich flavor. Adjust it to your preference!
• 1 tablespoon orange zest: The zest contributes a vibrant, citrusy aroma and flavor that brightens the sauce.
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice: This adds sweetness and acidity, perfectly balancing the sauce’s flavors.
• 1/2 cup water: Helps in cooking the cranberries down to a sauce-like consistency.
• 1 cinnamon stick: Infuses a warm spice, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the sauce.

Instructions for Cranberry Orange Sauce

Making Cranberry Orange Sauce is a straightforward process, perfect for even novice cooks. Let’s dive into these simple steps to create a delicious sauce that will become a staple at your holiday gatherings.

1. Rinse the cranberries. Start by rinsing the cranberries under cool water. Remove any mushy or underripe berries and stems, ensuring only the best are used in your sauce.

2. Combine ingredients in a saucepan. Place a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Add the rinsed cranberries, maple syrup, orange zest, orange juice, water, and cinnamon stick to the pan. This delightful mixture is the foundation of your sauce.

3. Bring to a boil. Cook the mixture while stirring occasionally until it comes to a boil. You’ll hear the cranberries start to pop, releasing their juices.

4. Simmer and stir. Continue boiling over medium heat for 15 to 20 minutes. The cranberries will burst and break down, transforming into a sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

5. Taste for sweetness. After the cranberries have burst, taste your sauce. If it’s too tart, feel free to add more maple syrup by the tablespoon until it’s sweetened to your liking.

6. Cool and serve. Once satisfied with the flavor, remove the saucepan from heat and let the sauce cool. You can serve it warm or let it cool completely before transferring it to a serving dish.

7. Store or freeze. Spoon the sauce into an airtight container for storage. Refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. To thaw frozen sauce, move it to the fridge about 24 to 48 hours before serving.

Recipe Notes about Cranberry Orange Sauce

Here are some helpful tips to enhance your experience while making Cranberry Orange Sauce.

• Storage: This sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze this sauce for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container.
• Thawing: To thaw, simply place it in the fridge overnight prior to serving.
• Serving suggestions: Serve it with turkey, chicken, or as a spread on sandwiches for a unique twist.
• Variations: Consider adding different fruits like apples or pears for a creative twist.

Pairing Suggestions for Cranberry Orange Sauce

Serving your Cranberry Orange Sauce can be as creative as you like. Below are some delicious pairings that enhance its flavors.

• Turkey: This sauce is a classic accompaniment to roast turkey, perfectly balancing its savory notes.
• Chicken: Serve it alongside grilled or roasted chicken for a refreshing contrast.
• Holiday Dinners: It’s a must-have for any holiday dinner, providing a burst of flavor that complements the feast.
• Sandwiches: Use it as a spread on turkey or chicken sandwiches, adding a sweet and tangy kick.
• Cheese Platters: Include it on a cheese platter with sharp cheddar or cream cheese for a delightful appetizer.
• Breakfast Treat: Stir it into oatmeal or yogurt for a delicious breakfast option, adding a festive touch to your morning.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Cranberry Orange Sauce is a wonderful addition to any meal, especially during the holiday season. Its bright flavors and vibrant color make it not just a condiment, but a celebration of the season’s bounty. I encourage you to try making it yourself; it’s easier than you think and brings a touch of warmth and joy to your table. Enjoy sharing this recipe with family and friends, and make it a part of your holiday traditions!

Cranberry Orange Sauce

The ultimate comfort food for your holiday table, Cranberry Orange Sauce combines tart and sweet flavors that are sure to satisfy every palate. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, this seasonal delight will elevate your meals. Treat yourself to this fresh and zesty sauce tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Side Dishes

Cuisine American

Servings 12 servings

Calories 80 kcal

Equipment

• Frying Pan
• Large Pot
• Mixing Bowl
• Wooden Spoon

Ingredients

  

• 3 cups Fresh or Frozen Cranberries
• 1/3 cup Pure Maple Syrup
• 1 tablespoon Orange Zest
• 1/2 cup Fresh Orange Juice
• 1/2 cup Water
• 1 stick Cinnamon Stick

Instructions

 

• 1. Rinse the cranberries. Discard any mushy or underripe berries and stems.
• 2. Place a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat and add the cranberries, 1/3 cup pure maple syrup, orange zest, orange juice, water, and cinnamon stick.
• 3. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil.
• 4. Continue boiling over medium heat until the berries burst and break down, forming a sauce, about 15 to 20 minutes.
• 5. Taste for sweetness. If it’s too tart, add more syrup – a tablespoon at a time – until the sauce tastes sweet enough for you.
• 6. Remove from the heat and let cool. Spoon into your serving container to serve or store in an airtight container, refrigerated, for 3 to 4 days.
• 7. You can also freeze your cranberry sauce for up to 2 months. Just place the sauce in an airtight container or zipper freezer bag and transfer to the freezer.
• 8. Move to the fridge to thaw about 24 to 48 hours before the big meal.

Notes

• Storage: This sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze this sauce for up to 3 months. Just ensure it's in a freezer-safe container.
• Thawing: To thaw, simply place it in the fridge overnight prior to serving.
• Serving suggestions: Serve it with turkey, chicken, or as a spread on sandwiches for a unique twist.
• Variations: Consider adding different fruits like apples or pears for a creative twist.

Keyword Cranberry Sauce Recipe, Holiday Condiments, Orange Sauce, Thanksgiving Recipes

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Meet Sophia Hayes

I founded YumRecettes to turn my messy, joyful kitchen experiments into something I could share. While I steer the ship, I am first and foremost a cook. I love tackling every type of recipe, from grandmother’s old classics to modern fusion dishes. For me, the magic isn’t in a specific type of food, but in the act of preparing it. I’m usually the one urging the team to try that “one last idea” that ends up making the dish perfect.