There’s something magical about the burst of tangy cranberries mingling with vibrant orange zest in a holiday favorite: Orange Cranberry Sauce. wild rice pilaf with cranberries This delightful condiment dances on your taste buds, offering a perfect balance of sweet and tart, making it a must-have on your festive table.
As I gazed upon my family devouring the turkey drenched in this jewel-toned sauce, I realized that Orange Cranberry Sauce isn’t just food; it’s an experience. very berry cranberry sauce Whether it’s Thanksgiving or Christmas, this dish brings everyone together, sparking laughter and stories over a sumptuous feast.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Orange Cranberry Sauce is incredibly easy to whip up, making holiday prep a breeze
- Its unique flavor profile elevates any dish from mundane to magnificent
- The stunning color adds a festive touch to your table, impressing guests at every gathering
- It’s versatile enough to enjoy beyond the holidays, perfect for yogurt or as a glaze for meats
I still remember the first time I made this sauce; my friends went wild over its fresh taste and vibrant color!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Cranberries: Look for plump berries without any blemishes for the best flavor and texture.
- Oranges: Use juicy oranges for zest and juice to complement the cranberries’ tartness perfectly.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar balances the tartness; feel free to adjust based on your taste preference.
- Water: Just enough to help cook the cranberries down into a luscious sauce.
- Cinnamon Stick: Adds a warm, aromatic note that enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Gather those ingredients because it’s time to create some culinary magic!
Prep Your Ingredients: Rinse the fresh cranberries under cold water while removing any that are mushy or shriveled. pumpkin cornbread as a side Zest and juice your oranges; set aside both components for later use.
Combine Ingredients in a Pot: In a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, sugar, and water. Stir until well mixed and bring to a light simmer.
Cook Until Bubbly: Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the berries burst and release their juices. The aroma will be heavenly!
Add Cinnamon for Flavor: Toss in a cinnamon stick during the last few minutes of cooking. This will infuse your sauce with warm spices that scream comfort.
Cool Down Before Serving: Remove from heat and let your Orange Cranberry Sauce cool down completely. It will thicken as it cools into a perfect consistency ready for serving. For more inspiration, check out this Vegan Swedish Meatballs recipe.
Feel free to double or triple this recipe if you’re expecting guests; everyone will want seconds!
This zesty Orange Cranberry Sauce not only enhances your holiday meals but also creates memorable moments around the dining table. Enjoy each bite as you gather with loved ones! For more inspiration, check out this Cheesy Garlic Christmas Bread recipe.
You Must Know
- This Orange Cranberry Sauce is a delightful blend of tart and sweet flavors; it brightens any holiday spread
- The vibrant colors and aromas will impress your guests, making it a holiday hit
- Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up in just 30 minutes!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by simmering fresh cranberries with orange juice and zest for maximum flavor. When the cranberries burst, stir in sugar for sweetness and let it thicken.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. You can also swap orange juice with apple cider for a unique twist on this classic sauce.
Storing & Reheating
Store your Orange Cranberry Sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh cranberries instead of canned for better flavor and texture
- Always taste as you go; adjusting sweetness can make a world of difference
- Don’t forget to let it cool before serving; it’ll thicken up nicely!
Sharing my first experience making this Orange Cranberry Sauce brings back fond memories of family gatherings filled with laughter and love. delicious cranberry chutney Everyone raved about how delicious it was!
FAQ
What can I serve with Orange Cranberry Sauce?
This sauce pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, or even on toast!
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! This sauce tastes even better when made a day ahead.
How long does homemade cranberry sauce last?
Homemade Orange Cranberry Sauce lasts about two weeks in the fridge when stored correctly.
Orange Cranberry Sauce
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this vibrant Orange Cranberry Sauce, a delightful blend of tart cranberries and zesty orange. This easy-to-make condiment adds a refreshing touch to your festive table, balancing sweetness and acidity perfectly. Whether drizzled over turkey or served as a dip, this sauce is sure to impress your guests and create cherished memories around the dining table.
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 cup orange juice (about 2 large oranges)
- Zest of 1 large orange
- 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cinnamon stick
Instructions
- Rinse cranberries under cold water, discarding any mushy ones. Zest and juice the oranges; set aside.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, sugar, and water. Stir well and bring to a light simmer.
- Simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the berries burst and release their juices.
- Add the cinnamon stick during the last few minutes of cooking for extra warmth.
- Remove from heat and let cool completely; sauce will thicken as it cools.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 85
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 2mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
