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Flavorful Cranberry Sauce Recipe 3 Easy Ways Your Family Will Love

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A simple, quick, and delicious cranberry sauce recipe that balances tartness and sweetness with fresh citrus zest and warm spices. Perfect for holidays or any family meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces fresh cranberries (about 340 grams)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (200 grams)
  • 1 cup water (240 ml)
  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (120 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • 1 medium cinnamon stick
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Rinse 12 ounces (340 grams) of fresh cranberries under cold water and pick out any stems or soft berries (about 3 minutes).
  2. In a medium saucepan, mix 1 cup (240 ml) water, 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup (120 ml) fresh orange juice. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely, about 4-5 minutes.
  3. Carefully add the cranberries to the saucepan along with 1 teaspoon orange zest, 1 cinnamon stick, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently to combine.
  4. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally but gently.
  5. Check consistency; the sauce should be thickened but still a bit loose. Add a splash of water if too thick or simmer longer if too thin.
  6. Remove from heat, take out the cinnamon stick, and stir in 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Let cool slightly before serving or refrigerating.

Notes

Use fresh cranberries for best texture; frozen can be used but may release excess water. Stir gently to keep some berries bursting for texture. Simmer uncovered to thicken naturally. Add extra sugar or honey to reduce tartness. Remove cinnamon stick before serving. Vanilla extract added off heat preserves aroma. For a grown-up twist, add bourbon or brandy after cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry sauce, holiday sauce, Thanksgiving, Christmas, easy cranberry sauce, homemade cranberry sauce, tart and sweet sauce

Find it online: https://eliplate.com/flavorful-cranberry-sauce-recipe-3-easy-ways-your-family-will-love/