Homemade Cranberry Sauce: A Cozy Classic
Homemade cranberry sauce is so easy to make! Move over, canned sauce—this naturally gluten-free, tangy-sweet condiment is the perfect companion to many cozy meals.
Cranberries are more than just an ingredient for sauce.
Cranberries aren’t just for sauce—they’re one of the most versatile fruits out there. Available fresh in the fall and dried year-round, they can pump up the flavor of everything from breakfast foods to baked goods. Sprinkle dried cranberries on hot or cold cereal, mix them into pancake or waffle batter, stir them into yogurt, or toss them on top of salads. One of my favorite snacks is dried cranberries paired with goat cheese on gluten-free crackers. And don’t forget baked treats like cranberry orange bread or cookies!
Did you know?
During World War II, American troops required a million pounds of dried cranberries each year! Not only are cranberries delicious, but they’re also packed with health benefits. These little berries are rich in antioxidants and fiber, making them a powerhouse ingredient in any kitchen.
How do you make homemade cranberry sauce?
You’re going to love how quick and easy this homemade cranberry sauce is to whip up! One of the best things about cooking from scratch is tailoring a recipe to your liking. This cranberry sauce is a perfect example:
- Consistency: If you prefer a thinner sauce (similar to gravy), simply add more water. If you like it thick and jelly-like but with whole fruit (my favorite!), reduce the water slightly.
- Sweetness: Cranberries are naturally tart, so sugar is essential to balance the flavors and help the sauce set. The great news? You control the amount of sweetness. Adjust the sugar to suit your taste, keeping in mind that a proper jellied sauce needs a little sugar magic to work.
Just a few ingredients
Homemade Cranberry Sauce
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Cranberry sauce is incredibly easy to make! In just 10 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and naturally gluten-free sauce that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces of fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- orange zest or cinnamon, optional
Instructions
- Rinse the cranberries, discarding any soft or shriveled ones.
- Combine the cranberries, sugar, and water in a medium saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens (about 10 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in a teaspoon of orange zest or a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth and flavor.
- Let the sauce cool—it will thicken further as it sets.
Notes
Make Ahead Tips:
One of the best things about homemade cranberry sauce is that you can make it ahead of time! Prepare it a day or two before your gathering and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When it’s time to serve, bring the sauce to room temperature for the best flavor and consistency
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Serve It Up!
This homemade cranberry sauce pairs wonderfully with more than just turkey. Try it as a topping for gluten-free pancakes, swirl it into yogurt, or serve it alongside your favorite main dishes like my gluten-free chicken fried steak.
Want more delicious gluten-free recipes and tips?
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Cooking from scratch gives such peace of mind—you know exactly what’s in your food and can savor the delicious results.
From my happy, healthy home to yours,
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