The holiday season is just around the corner, and for many of us, that means it’s time to break out the cookbooks and get cooking. One classic condiment that’s a staple at many a Thanksgiving and Christmas table is cranberry sauce – and for good reason. Not only does its tangy flavor complement a wide range of dishes, from turkey and ham to mashed potatoes and green beans, but it’s also incredibly easy to make from scratch.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 delicious cranberry sauce recipes that are sure to add some festive flair to your holiday gatherings. From classic and traditional to bold and innovative, these recipes use a variety of ingredients and flavor combinations to take the humble cranberry to new heights. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, we’ve got something for everyone.
Classic Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Elevate your holiday table with this simple yet flavorful homemade cranberry sauce recipe. This traditional condiment is a staple for many family gatherings and special occasions, and it’s surprisingly easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 orange, peeled and chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any remaining solids, if desired.
6. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Orange Zest Cranberry Sauce
This vibrant cranberry sauce gets a boost of flavor from the brightness of orange zest, making it perfect for your holiday gatherings. With its lovely balance of tangy and sweet, this sauce is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tbsp grated orange zest
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and orange zest.
3. Add the water to the saucepan and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
4. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Spiced Bourbon Cranberry Sauce
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this unique and flavorful Spiced Bourbon Cranberry Sauce. This sweet and tangy condiment is perfect for topping turkey, yogurt parfaits, or enjoying as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 2 tbsp orange zest
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, bourbon, orange zest, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
3. Add the water to the saucepan and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
4. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Maple Walnut Cranberry Sauce
This sweet and tangy sauce combines the flavors of maple syrup, toasted walnuts, and fresh cranberries to create a delicious condiment perfect for topping pancakes, waffles, or using as a side dish for your holiday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup chopped toasted walnuts
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, maple syrup, sugar, and water.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened.
4. Stir in the butter and chopped walnuts until melted and well combined.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Slow Cooker Cranberry Sauce
This slow cooker cranberry sauce recipe is a game-changer for the holiday season. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious and tangy condiment to accompany your turkey, mashed potatoes, or even use as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 2 tbsp grated orange zest
– 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and orange zest.
3. Stir in the cinnamon stick, if using.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Remove the cinnamon stick, if used, and let the sauce cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Ginger Pear Cranberry Sauce
This seasonal sauce combines the warmth of ginger with the sweetness of pear and the tartness of cranberries, perfect for topping your favorite holiday dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 ripe pear, peeled and chopped (such as Bartlett or Anjou)
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, pear, ginger, sugar, honey, and vinegar.
2. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the mixture has thickened slightly.
3. Stir in water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Yield: Approximately 2 cups of sauce
Rosemary Honey Cranberry Sauce
This sweet and savory condiment combines the flavors of rosemary, honey, and cranberries to create a unique and delicious addition to your holiday menu.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon orange juice
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, honey, rosemary, apple cider vinegar, and orange juice.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in salt to taste.
5. Let the sauce cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Apple Cider Cranberry Sauce
This sweet and tangy sauce combines the flavors of crisp apple cider and tart cranberries, perfect for topping your favorite fall dishes. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you’ll be enjoying this delicious condiment in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional)
– 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, apple cider, sugar, and orange zest (if using).
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the water. Let cool to room temperature before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Balsamic Cranberry Sauce
Add a burst of flavor to your holiday meals with this simple and delicious balsamic cranberry sauce. With just a few ingredients, you can create a tangy and sweet condiment that’s perfect for topping turkey, pork, or even using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, balsamic vinegar, water, orange zest, and salt.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jalapeño Lime Cranberry Sauce
This unique cranberry sauce combines the tanginess of lime and the heat of jalapeños to create a flavorful condiment perfect for topping turkey, crackers, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup (120ml) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (60ml) freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, lime juice, and chopped jalapeño.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly.
3. Remove from heat and stir in salt.
4. Let cool to room temperature before refrigerating or serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pomegranate Cranberry Sauce
This sweet and tangy sauce combines the flavors of pomegranate and cranberries to create a perfect accompaniment for your holiday meals. With its deep red color and fruity aroma, it’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, pomegranate juice, sugar, and orange zest.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened.
4. Stir in the orange juice and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vanilla Bean Cranberry Sauce
This sweet and tangy cranberry sauce is infused with the warmth of vanilla beans, making it a perfect addition to your holiday table. This easy-to-make recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, and vanilla bean.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened.
4. Remove the vanilla bean and stir in the salt.
5. Let the sauce cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Rum Raisin Cranberry Sauce
Add a touch of sophistication to your holiday gatherings with this unique rum-infused cranberry sauce, perfect for topping turkey, yogurt, or enjoying as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons dark rum (such as Myers’s)
– 1/2 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. Rinse cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and butter.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture reaches a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in rum and raisins.
6. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cardamom Orange Cranberry Sauce
This sweet and tangy sauce combines the warmth of cardamom with the brightness of orange, perfectly balancing the tartness of cranberries. Perfect for topping yogurt, oatmeal, or using as a glaze for meats or cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Rinse cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, ginger, cardamom, and salt.
3. Bring mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until cranberries have popped and sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in water.
5. Let cool to room temperature before refrigerating or using immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Chai-Spiced Cranberry Sauce
This unique twist on traditional cranberry sauce combines the flavors of India’s popular chai tea with the sweetness of fresh cranberries. Perfect for serving alongside turkey, stuffing, or as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups water
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/8 teaspoon black tea leaves (or 1 chai spice blend)
Instructions:
1. Rinse cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, cinnamon stick, cloves, cardamom, ginger, and tea leaves (or chai spice blend).
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add cranberries to the saucepan and stir gently.
5. Continue to simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes or until cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cranberry Sauce with Fresh Mint
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this refreshing cranberry sauce infused with the brightness of fresh mint. This sweet and tangy condiment is perfect for topping yogurt, oatmeal, or using as a glaze for meats.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened.
3. Stir in the chopped mint leaves and orange zest.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Cranberry Sauce
Add a spicy twist to your holiday gatherings with this Smoky Chipotle Cranberry Sauce! The smokiness from chipotle peppers in adobo sauce pairs perfectly with the tartness of cranberries, creating a unique and delicious condiment.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, seeded and chopped
– 1 tablespoon orange juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, chipotle peppers, and orange juice.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the cinnamon.
5. Let cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Blueberry Cranberry Sauce
This luscious sauce combines the flavors of fresh blueberries and cranberries to create a perfect blend for topping pancakes, waffles, yogurt, or using as a dip. With its sweet and tangy taste, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. Rinse the blueberries and cranberries, then pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the blueberries, cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and water.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the berries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Peach Cranberry Sauce
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this unique and delicious peach cranberry sauce. A perfect blend of sweet and tangy, it’s sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen peaches, diced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons orange juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the peaches, cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and honey.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the salt.
5. Let the sauce cool to room temperature before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cranberry Sauce with Candied Pecans
This sweet and tangy cranberry sauce gets a delightful crunch and flavor boost from the addition of candied pecans. Perfect for topping your turkey, yogurt, or oatmeal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 cup candied pecans (see below for candying recipe)
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
Candying Pecans Recipe:
– 1/2 cup pecan halves
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. Rinse cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, and water.
3. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until berries have popped and sauce has thickened.
4. Stir in candied pecans and orange zest.
5. Let cool before refrigerating or serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests this holiday season with these 20 delicious cranberry sauce recipes! From classic homemade to spiced and sweet, there’s something for everyone. Try adding a twist with orange zest, bourbon, or maple syrup, or go bold with jalapeño lime or chai-spiced flavors. For a sweeter take, try pairing cranberries with vanilla bean, apple cider, or peach. And don’t forget the savory options like rosemary honey and balsamic glaze. Whether you’re looking for a traditional recipe or something new and exciting, these recipes are sure to be a hit at your holiday table.
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