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Homemade Christmas Cranberry Sauce

A delightful sweet-tart cranberry sauce, perfect for holiday meals.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Course: Sauce, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Keyword: Cranberry Sauce, Festive Side, Holiday Recipe, Homemade Sauce
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 12 ounces fresh cranberries
  • 1 cup sugar Adjust sweetness to preference.
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest Adds a citrus flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon Optional for extra warmth in flavor.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Rinse the cranberries under cold water and sort through them to remove any damaged ones.

Cooking

  • In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
  • Add the cranberries, orange zest, and cinnamon if you choose to include it.
  • Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally until the cranberries burst, and the sauce thickens.
  • Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool. The sauce will thicken further as it cools.

Serving

  • Serve your cranberry sauce chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

If made ahead of time, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Can freeze well for up to six months. Optional spices like nutmeg or vanilla can enhance flavor.