Cranberry Sauce is a must-have for every holiday table, but once you try this homemade version, you’ll want to make it all year round. Made with just 5 ingredients—including fresh cranberries, maple syrup, and orange zest—it’s sweet, tangy, and has the perfect jammy texture. Say goodbye to the canned stuff forever—this simple stovetop recipe is naturally sweetened, quick to prepare, and full of bold, festive flavor.
Table of Contents
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 5 Simple Ingredients – Nothing artificial, just real food.
- Naturally Sweetened – Maple syrup adds depth without refined sugar.
- Bursting with Flavor – Orange zest takes this sauce to another level.
- Perfect Make-Ahead Dish – Keeps well for days (or months if frozen).
- Versatile Use – From turkey to toast, this sauce does it all.
🛒 Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh or frozen cranberries (no need to thaw)
- ½ cup maple syrup
- ¼ cup water
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (more to taste)
- Pinch of salt
👩🍳 Instructions
- Combine Ingredients
In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, add cranberries, maple syrup, water, orange zest, and salt. - Simmer the Sauce
Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently to prevent burning. - Cook & Thicken
As the cranberries burst, reduce the heat to low. Continue cooking for 15–20 minutes, stirring often, until the mixture thickens. - Cool & Serve
Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Note: Sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
⏱️ Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary: Vegan, Gluten-Free
🧮 Nutrition Estimate (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 80
- Carbs: 22 g
- Sugar: 14 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Protein: 0 g
💡 Tips & Variations
- Make It Zestier – Add more orange zest or swap water for fresh orange juice.
- Want a Sweeter Sauce? Add a chopped apple or pear while cooking.
- Extra Smooth Texture – Use an immersion blender after cooking.
- Festive Add-ins – Stir in pomegranate seeds or a splash of Grand Marnier.
- Storage Tip – Let cool fully before refrigerating or freezing.
❓ FAQs
Can I make cranberry sauce ahead of time?
Yes! Make it up to 3 days ahead and store in the fridge, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Absolutely—no need to thaw. Just cook straight from frozen.
Can I reduce the sweetness?
Yes, start with less maple syrup and adjust after tasting.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! It’s mildly tart, naturally sweet, and totally free from refined sugar.
🍽 Serving Ideas
- Classic Pairing: Serve with roasted turkey, chicken, or pork.
- Breakfast Boost: Spoon over pancakes, waffles, or yogurt.
- Leftover Magic: Spread on turkey sandwiches or mix into grain bowls.
- Cheese Board Hero: Perfect with soft brie or aged cheddar.
Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine cranberries, maple syrup, water, orange zest, and salt.
- Bring to a simmer, stirring often.
- As cranberries burst, reduce heat to low. Cook for 15–20 minutes until thickened.
- Remove from heat. Let cool slightly—sauce thickens more as it cools. Serve warm or room temp.
Notes
– Add diced apple, pear, or splash of orange juice for variation
– Great with turkey, cheese boards, or breakfast dishes
🔚 Conclusion
Homemade Cranberry Sauce is the easiest way to upgrade your holiday spread—and it takes just 25 minutes. Naturally sweet, vibrant, and bursting with bold citrusy flavor, this is one side dish that’s as flexible as it is festive. Once you try it, you’ll never go back to canned.