Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cranberry sauce is quick, easy, and made from wholesome ingredients. The natural sweetness of honey and the citrusy zing of orange juice complement the tart cranberries perfectly. It’s versatile enough to serve with turkey, chicken, or even as a spread for toast and sandwiches. Plus, it’s make-ahead friendly, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight.
ingredients
¾ cup honey (or granulated sugar)
½ cup orange juice
¼ cup water
12 oz fresh cranberries
1 cinnamon stick (or ½ tsp ground cinnamon)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
directions
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In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine honey, orange juice, and water. Stir frequently until the honey dissolves into the liquid.
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Add the cranberries and cinnamon stick. Reduce heat to medium-low and let simmer, stirring often to prevent burning.
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Cook until the cranberries start to pop and break down, creating a thick, chunky sauce.
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Remove and discard the cinnamon stick. Let the cranberry sauce cool on the counter for 30 minutes.
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Transfer to the fridge and chill overnight to allow flavors to meld. Stir gently before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 10
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 17 minutes
Variations
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Add orange zest for extra citrus flavor.
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Mix in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for texture.
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Substitute honey with maple syrup for a different natural sweetness.
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Include other spices such as cloves or allspice for a warm, festive twist.
storage/reheating
Store cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It’s best eaten within 3–4 days for maximum freshness. Reheat gently on the stove if desired, though it can also be served cold. Stir before serving to restore consistency.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cranberries work perfectly. No need to thaw; simply add them directly to the saucepan.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely. In fact, chilling it overnight enhances the flavor as the cranberries absorb the liquid and spices.
Can I use sugar instead of honey?
Yes, granulated sugar can be used in place of honey. Adjust sweetness to taste.
How long does homemade cranberry sauce last?
Stored in the fridge, it lasts up to a week. The flavor is best within 3–4 days.
Can I freeze cranberry sauce?
Yes, cranberry sauce freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months and thaw in the fridge before serving.
Can I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of ground ginger, cloves, or a splash of cayenne for a spicier variation.
Can I use lemon juice instead of orange juice?
Lemon juice can be used but will make the sauce tarter. You might want to increase the honey slightly to balance the flavors.
Can I puree the sauce?
Yes, after cooking, use a blender or food processor to puree for a smooth consistency.
Can I use this cranberry sauce on desserts?
Definitely. It pairs well with cheesecake, ice cream, or as a filling for tarts and pastries.
Can I make a smaller batch?
Yes, simply halve or quarter the recipe depending on your needs. Cooking time may be slightly shorter.
Conclusion
This cranberry sauce is a classic, easy-to-make recipe that brings a bright, sweet-tart flavor to any meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s perfect for holidays, weeknight dinners, or as a versatile condiment to elevate both savory and sweet dishes. Making it ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving you a stress-free, delicious addition to your table.
Cranberry Sauce
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: undefined
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple, vibrant cranberry sauce made with fresh cranberries, honey, orange juice, and a hint of cinnamon. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tart, and a must-have side for holiday meals or any time you want a bright, flavorful condiment.
Ingredients
3/4 cup honey (or granulated sugar)
1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup water
12 oz fresh cranberries
1 cinnamon stick (or 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon)
Instructions
- In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine honey, orange juice, and water. Stir frequently until the honey dissolves.
- Add cranberries and cinnamon stick. Reduce heat to medium-low and let simmer, stirring often to prevent burning.
- Cook until cranberries start to pop and break down, creating a thick, chunky sauce.
- Remove and discard the cinnamon stick. Let sauce cool on the counter for 30 minutes.
- Transfer to the fridge and chill overnight to allow flavors to meld. Stir gently before serving.
Notes
Add orange zest for extra citrus flavor.
Mix in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for texture.
Substitute honey with maple syrup for a different natural sweetness.
Include other spices such as cloves or allspice for a warm, festive twist.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/10 of recipe
- Calories: 60
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: undefined
- Trans Fat: undefined
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
