Homemade Spiced Cranberry Sauce Recipe
Are you tired of bland, store-bought cranberry sauce that lacks that cozy, festive punch? This spiced cranberry sauce recipe is a game-changer! Made with fresh cranberries and a blend of warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, it’s the perfect side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas dinners, or any autumn meal. Not only is it easy to make in under 30 minutes, but it’s also bursting with flavor. Say goodbye to canned versions and hello to homemade goodness!
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the simple steps to create this delicious homemade spiced cranberry sauce. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned pro, this recipe is foolproof and customizable. Plus, we’ll share tips on storage, variations, and pairing ideas to make your holiday spread unforgettable.
Why Make Spiced Cranberry Sauce from Scratch?
Store-bought cranberry sauce often comes loaded with preservatives and excessive sugar, but making your own spiced cranberry sauce lets you control the ingredients. Fresh cranberries provide a tart base, while warm spices add depth and aroma that evoke the essence of fall and winter holidays. This recipe is vegan, gluten-free, and can be made sugar-free with alternatives like honey or maple syrup. Health benefits? Cranberries are packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, making this sauce not just tasty but nutritious too. It’s a versatile condiment that pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, cheese boards, or even as a topping for yogurt and oatmeal.
Ingredients for Spiced Cranberry Sauce
- fresh canberries
- orange juice
- white sugar
- brown sugar
- cinnamon stick
- nutmeg
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Add the Ingredients: Place all the ingredients in a pot over medium heat. Stir to combine.
- Boil: Let the ingredients come to a boil, some of cranberries will start to pop. Turn the heat down to low and let it simmer a few minutes.
- Simmer: I like a some of the cranberries to be intact, but it’s up to you how long you want to let it simmer. Long will give you a smoother texture with more cranberries popping.
- Store: Allow the sauce to cool. Remove the cinnamon stick before storing in an airtight container. The fresh cranberry sauce will thicken as it cools.
Tips and Variations
- Make it Ahead: This sauce stores well in the fridge for up to 10 days or freezes for 3 months. Perfect for holiday prep!
- Spice Level: Adjust spices to your liking—add ginger for a zing or allspice for more warmth.
- Sweetener Swaps: Use maple syrup for a vegan twist or honey for natural sweetness.
- Add-Ins: Mix in chopped apples, pears, or nuts for texture.
- Serving Ideas: Beyond turkey, try it on sandwiches, with brie cheese, or swirled into muffins.
Spiced Cranberry Sauce
Equipment
- 1 medium saucepan
Ingredients
- 3 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup orange juice
- ¾ cup sugar
- ¼ cup light brown sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Place all the ingredients in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir as it comes to a gentle boil.
- Let it boil for 2 minutes, then turn the heat to low and let it simmer. The cranberries will start to burst open at this point. You can decide how chunky or smooth you want your sauce to be by how long you let it simmer.
- Once you get the texture you want, remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. The sauce will thicken as it cools.
- Remove the cinnamon stick before serving at room temperature or placing in an airtight container to place in the refrigerator. (The sauce will thicken more when refrigerated).
Notes
Thanksgiving Recipes
