This easy 5-ingredient Cranberry Sauce is a must-have for any holiday table. Featuring fresh cranberries, a touch of orange juice, and a hint of vanilla, this sauce is packed with flavor and takes just a few minutes to prepare. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive meal, it adds a burst of tangy sweetness that complements roasted meats and other holiday sides beautifully.
INGREDIENTS
- Fresh Cranberries: The star of the recipe, providing a tart, juicy base that transforms into a thick, flavorful sauce when cooked.
- Water: Helps the cranberries cook down and creates a smooth consistency.
- Fresh Orange Juice: Adds brightness and natural sweetness, enhancing the tartness of the cranberries with a citrusy kick.
- Light or Dark Brown Sugar: Balances the tart cranberries with a caramel-like sweetness, adding depth to the sauce.
- Orange Zest: Intensifies the orange flavor, providing an aromatic, slightly bitter edge that complements the sweetness of the sauce.
- Pure Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and a subtle hint of sweetness, making this cranberry sauce unique and extra flavorful.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Prepare the Orange
- Start by zesting the orange to collect about 1 teaspoon of zest. Set the zest aside for later, as it’s easier to zest the orange before cutting it for juice. Cut the orange in half and juice it to yield about 1/4 cup. If needed, juice the other half to reach this amount.
- Step 2: Rinse the Cranberries
- Rinse the cranberries under cold water, removing any that are soft or discolored. Set aside 1/2 cup of the cranberries, which will be added at the end for extra texture.
- Step 3: Cook the Cranberries
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the remaining cranberries, water, orange juice, and brown sugar. Stir occasionally as the mixture comes to a simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low-medium and continue cooking for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens.
- Step 4: Add the Final Ingredients
- Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the reserved 1/2 cup of whole cranberries, the orange zest, and vanilla extract. This step adds texture, brightness, and an extra layer of flavor to the sauce.
- Step 5: Cool and Serve
- The cranberry sauce will continue to thicken as it cools. Serve warm or at room temperature. For the best flavor, make it a day ahead to allow the flavors to meld. Cover and store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve this cranberry sauce warm or at room temperature, allowing the flavors to shine. It pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, ham, and other holiday dishes.
- If making ahead, store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors intensify as it sits, making it an ideal make-ahead dish for busy holiday schedules.
- This sauce also freezes well! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and stir well before serving.
Helpful Notes
- For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender or mash the cranberries with a spoon after cooking. This will create a more uniform sauce.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar, depending on your preference.
- If you prefer a stronger orange flavor, add a bit more orange zest for extra citrusy brightness.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Ina Garten suggests using fresh cranberries whenever possible for the best flavor and texture.
- Chef Martha Stewart recommends adding a splash of Grand Marnier for a sophisticated twist on traditional cranberry sauce.
- Chef Alton Brown advises making the sauce a day in advance, as the flavors deepen and meld overnight.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cranberry sauce is incredibly easy to make with just 5 ingredients, yet it adds a fresh, vibrant flavor to any holiday meal.
- The addition of orange and vanilla creates a unique depth of flavor that makes this sauce stand out from classic recipes.
- It can be made ahead, saving you time and stress on the day of your gathering.
Variations
- For a boozy twist, add a splash of bourbon or Grand Marnier after cooking for a hint of warmth and complexity.
- Incorporate a cinnamon stick while cooking to add a warm, spiced flavor that complements the cranberry and orange.
- For a sweeter sauce, use a bit of honey or maple syrup in addition to, or instead of, the brown sugar.