Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, frozen cranberries work great—just use them straight from the freezer without thawing. Just give them a couple of extra minutes on the stove if needed.

How long does homemade cranberry sauce last?

Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it stays fresh for up to a week. Pop any leftovers in the freezer—they’ll keep well for a couple of months.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Absolutely. Start with 1/2 cup of sugar and adjust to taste. You can also try natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey.

Is it served hot or cold?

Both work! Serve it warm over meats or cold as a spread. Just make sure it's cooled enough to thicken properly.

What if it’s too runny?

No worries—just simmer a few more minutes. It will also thicken as it cools. If it’s still too thin, try mashing some berries to help it gel.

Easy Cranberry Sauce Everyone Will Absolutely Love

Name: Easy Cranberry Sauce Everyone Will Absolutely Love
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz fresh cranberries; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup orange juice; 1/2 cup water; Optional: Orange zest, cinnamon stick, vanilla extract

Description

This easy cranberry sauce recipe is sweet, tart, and ready in under 20 minutes. Perfect for holidays and everyday meals alike.

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz fresh cranberries
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup orange juice
1/2 cup water
Optional: Orange zest, cinnamon stick, vanilla extract

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Instructions

Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, mix cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and water.
Boil: Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Simmer: Reduce heat and simmer 10–12 minutes until cranberries burst.
Flavor: Add optional zest or spices and stir well.
Cool: Remove from heat. Let cool completely.
Serve or Store: Serve warm or chilled. Refrigerate leftovers.

Notes

Add more sugar for sweeter results.
Use honey or maple syrup for a natural twist.
Can be made 3–5 days ahead.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 cup
Calories: 90 kcal
Sugar: 19g
Sodium: 2mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 23g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg