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This cranberry sauce brings together the bright tang of cranberries with the warm sweetness of maple syrup and the fresh aroma of orange zest. It is quick to make, uses only five ingredients, and works beautifully for holiday meals or as a versatile condiment year-round.
I first made this for a small Thanksgiving dinner and was amazed by how quickly it became a family favorite. Now I make it in big batches and freeze portions to enjoy throughout the year.
Ingredients
- Cranberries: Provide tartness and a vibrant red color choose firm berries for best results
- Maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness and depth use pure maple syrup for a richer flavor
- Water: Helps soften the berries and creates a smooth sauce base use filtered water if possible
- Orange zest: Brings a citrusy brightness choose a fresh firm orange for zesting
- Salt: Enhances all flavors and balances the tart and sweet elements use a fine sea salt for better blending
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine Ingredients:
- Place cranberries maple syrup water orange zest and salt into a medium saucepan over medium low heat ensuring even distribution
- Simmer Gently:
- Bring mixture to a gentle simmer stirring frequently to prevent maple syrup from scorching and to coat berries evenly
- Burst the Berries:
- Continue simmering as berries begin to pop releasing juices and thickening the mixture keep stirring to avoid sticking
- Adjust Consistency:
- Cook until sauce is thickened to your liking remembering it will set further as it cools remove from heat slightly earlier if you prefer a softer texture
- Serve and Store:
- Enjoy warm or at room temperature store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze for longer storage
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I love the way the orange zest brightens the sauce and adds a layer of flavor that balances the maple sweetness. One of my fondest memories is serving this sauce alongside fresh baked rolls and watching everyone spread it like jam.
Storage Tips
Refrigerate in a sealed container for up to three days. For long term storage cool completely and freeze leaving space at the top of the container for expansion.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap water with fresh orange juice for a stronger citrus note. Use honey in place of maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside roasted poultry or pork use as a topping for pancakes waffles or yogurt or spread on sandwiches for a tangy twist.
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Cultural Context
Cranberry sauce is a staple in North American holiday meals especially during Thanksgiving and Christmas where its bright flavor cuts through rich and savory dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, frozen cranberries work perfectly. No need to thaw them before cooking.
- → How long does cranberry sauce keep in the fridge?
It will keep for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- → Can I make cranberry sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare it several days or even months ahead and store it in the fridge or freezer.
- → How can I make the orange flavor stronger?
Replace the water with fresh orange juice or add extra zest for a bolder citrus taste.
- → What else can I serve cranberry sauce with?
Try it with pancakes, waffles, yogurt, granola, turkey sandwiches, or cheese boards.
- → Does cranberry sauce thicken as it cools?
Yes, it will thicken while cooling, so remove it from heat slightly before it reaches your preferred consistency.