This baked cranberry sauce is a sweet and tangy treat that brightens up any meal. With fresh cranberries, a hint of orange, and a sprinkle of sugar, it’s hard to resist!
Making this sauce is a breeze! Just mix it all together, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen. I love pairing it with turkey or spreading it on toast—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Cranberries: These are essential for the tart flavor. If fresh ones are hard to find, you can use frozen cranberries without thawing them first. They work just as well and are convenient!
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the sauce. For a healthier option, consider using honey or maple syrup. Just adjust the amount since they’re sweeter than sugar—start with a little less.
Fresh Orange Juice & Zest: This adds brightness and flavor. If you don’t have fresh oranges, bottled orange juice will do, but fresh always tastes best! You can also try lemon juice if you want more zest.
Nuts: Pecans or walnuts give a nice crunch. If allergies are a concern, leave them out or substitute with seeds, like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Thickness in Baked Cranberry Sauce?
The key to a good texture is allowing the cranberries to burst and release their natural pectin. Here’s how to ensure your sauce thickens nicely:
- Mix all ingredients well, making sure the sugar is evenly distributed.
- During baking, stir the mixture once or twice. This helps break down the cranberries evenly.
- If the sauce seems too thin after baking, let it cool; it will thicken as it sits. If needed, bake for an extra 10-15 minutes.
How to Make Baked Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprig for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful baked cranberry sauce will take you around 15 minutes of preparation time, plus about 45 minutes to 1 hour of baking time. In total, you should expect to spend about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes before it’s ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will help the cranberries cook evenly and develop a wonderful flavor.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, fresh orange juice, orange zest, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Use a spatula or spoon to stir everything together until the sugar is well mixed with the other ingredients.
3. Prepare for Baking:
Next, transfer your cranberry mixture to a medium-sized baking dish or an oven-safe casserole dish. Make sure to spread it out evenly so that it cooks properly.
4. Bake the Mixture:
Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Be sure to stir the mixture once or twice during the baking process. You’ll know it’s done when the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened to your liking.
5. Add Nuts & Cool:
Once baked, remove the sauce from the oven and gently stir in the chopped pecans or walnuts, if using. Let the sauce cool slightly on the counter—it will continue to thicken as it cools.
6. Serve It Up:
Transfer your beautiful baked cranberry sauce to a serving bowl and if you like, garnish it with a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme for a lovely touch. This sauce can be served warm or chilled alongside your favorite meals like turkey or chicken.
7. Enjoy!
Your fresh, vibrant homemade baked cranberry sauce is now ready to enjoy. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tart—delicious!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries! There’s no need to thaw them before using; just add them directly into the mixture. They may release more liquid during cooking, so you might need to bake them a bit longer to achieve the desired thickness.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
If you prefer a sweeter sauce, feel free to add more sugar to taste. Start with an additional tablespoon and adjust according to your preference. Conversely, if you’d like it less sweet, reduce the sugar slightly or add a touch more citrus juice for acidity.
How Do I Store Leftover Cranberry Sauce?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze the sauce for up to three months. For best results, thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make this sauce a day or two in advance. Just store it in the fridge, and it will taste even better as the flavors meld. Reheat gently on the stove or serve it chilled for a refreshing perk!
