This spiced cranberry sauce brings a burst of flavor to your meals. With tangy cranberries and warm spices like cinnamon, it’s a perfect match for turkey or even on toast!
You won’t believe how easy it is to make! Just throw everything in a pot, let it simmer, and voilà! I keep extra in the fridge because it brightens up so many dishes. 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are ideal for this recipe, but frozen ones work great too! Just be sure to thaw them before using. If cranberries aren’t available, you could try using pomegranate juice for a different twist.
Sugar: Granulated sugar gives the sauce its sweetness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, honey or maple syrup can substitute, but adjust the quantity to taste as they are sweeter.
Spices: The spices are what make this sauce pop! If you don’t have whole spices, using all ground spices works too. Adjust to your taste; I often find that adding a bit more nutmeg elevates the flavor.
Orange: Fresh orange zest and juice brighten the sauce. If you don’t have an orange, lemon juice can add a different citrusy flavor—just use less, as it’s more tart!
How Do I Get the Right Consistency for My Cranberry Sauce?
Achieving the right thickness can be tricky for some, but it’s all about timing and heat. As the cranberries cook, they’ll release natural pectin, which helps thicken the sauce. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Keep the heat on medium-low while simmering. This slow cooking allows the cranberries to burst and thicken the sauce naturally.
- Don’t rush the process—let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until you see it start to thicken.
- If it’s too thick after cooling, add a splash of water and stir to loosen it up to your desired consistency.
Let the sauce cool completely before refrigerating; the flavors develop beautifully as it chills! Enjoy your homemade cranberry goodness!
How to Make Spiced Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) fresh or frozen cranberries
- 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) water
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves or 2 whole cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 small orange, zested and juiced
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary (for garnish and subtle infusion)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20-30 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing ingredients and cooking them, plus some time to let the sauce cool and chill in the fridge. It’s simple and quick!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse the Cranberries:
Start by rinsing the cranberries under cool water. Check for any bruised or damaged ones and remove those. It’s essential to use quality cranberries for the best flavor!
2. Combine Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, mix together the water, sugar, cinnamon stick, ground cloves (or whole cloves), allspice, and nutmeg. Turn the heat to medium-high and bring it to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar fully dissolves. The aroma of the spices will start to fill your kitchen!
3. Add the Cranberries:
Now, add the rinsed cranberries, orange zest, and juice to the pot. Give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients together. You’re on your way to a delicious sauce!
4. Simmer the Mixture:
Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer. You’ll notice the cranberries start to pop, releasing their juices and creating a thickened sauce. This should take about 10-15 minutes, so keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to avoid any sticking.
5. Final Touches:
Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove the saucepan from the heat. Discard the cinnamon stick and any whole cloves if you used them. This step is crucial so that the sauce doesn’t have any unexpected crunch!
6. Transfer and Garnish:
Pour the cranberry sauce into a serving bowl. For an added touch, garnish it with a sprig of fresh rosemary. It not only looks nice but adds a lovely aroma too!
7. Cool and Serve:
Let the sauce cool to room temperature, then pop it in the refrigerator to let the flavors mingle. It’s best served chilled but can also be enjoyed at room temperature. Pair it with your favorite dishes or spread it on toast for a tasty treat!
This spiced cranberry sauce is a perfect blend of tart and sweet with warming spices. Enjoy it during the holidays or anytime you crave a burst of flavor!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones. Just make sure to thaw them completely before using, or add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if you’re using them straight from the freezer.
How to Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
If you find the sauce too tart, feel free to add more sugar to taste while it’s simmering. Start with an additional tablespoon and stir until dissolved, then taste before adding more. Conversely, if you prefer a less sweet sauce, you can reduce the sugar by up to half without compromising the flavor too much!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Cranberry Sauce?
You can store leftover cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It also freezes well for up to three months, so consider making a double batch to enjoy later!
Can I Add Other Flavors to My Cranberry Sauce?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding other spices like ginger or cardamom, or mix in chopped apples or pears for added texture and sweetness. Just start with small amounts, so you can adjust according to your preference!
