Easy Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest and a Hint of Spice
This quick and easy cranberry sauce recipe is perfect for Thanksgiving or any holiday gathering. The bright citrus notes and warm spices elevate the classic flavor.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces Fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup Granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup Water
- 1 Orange zested and juiced
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground cloves
- 1 tablespoon Orange liqueur (optional) Grand Marnier or Cointreau
Instructions
Instructions
- Combine cranberries, sugar, water, orange zest, cinnamon, and cloves in a medium saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- Remove from heat and stir in the orange juice and optional orange liqueur.
- Taste and adjust sweetness if needed. Add a pinch more sugar if desired.
- Let the sauce cool completely before serving. The sauce will thicken further as it cools.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Notes
For a smoother sauce, you can use an immersion blender to puree it after it has cooled slightly. You can also experiment with different spices like allspice or ginger.