Description
Bright, tangy, and effortlessly easy to make, this Easy Classic Cranberry Sauce is your go-to holiday side dish. With just a handful of ingredients and one saucepan, you can whip up this ruby-red sauce in under 20 minutes. It’s the perfect sweet-and-tart companion to roast turkey, a vibrant addition to breakfast ideas like oatmeal or pancakes, and doubles as a delicious spread or dip. Whether you’re planning an easy dinner or prepping ahead for a big celebration, this classic cranberry sauce is a crowd-pleasing, make-ahead must. A healthy snack or a festive finishing touch — it’s as versatile as it is beautiful.
Ingredients
12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup water
Zest of 1 orange (optional)
Pinch of salt
1 cinnamon stick (optional)
1 star anise (optional)
1/4 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Splash of orange juice (optional)
Instructions
1. Rinse the cranberries thoroughly, discarding any soft or discolored ones.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring water and sugar to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves completely.
3. Add the cranberries and stir to coat them in the syrup. Include optional orange zest or spices if desired.
4. Let simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens.
5. Taste and adjust — add more sugar, citrus, or spice to balance tartness.
6. Remove from heat, discard any whole spices, and let cool for 10 minutes before transferring to a container.
7. Chill in the refrigerator before serving; sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
Notes
The sauce will thicken significantly as it cools, so avoid overcooking.
Add-ins like cinnamon sticks or orange zest enhance the festive flavor.
Make it up to a week ahead for deeper flavor and easier prep on the big day.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 2mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: cranberry sauce, holiday side, thanksgiving recipe, easy sauce, quick side dish, healthy snack, breakfast ideas, easy dinner