This cranberry sauce is a fresh take on a classic. It mixes tart cranberries with sweet orange juice and a hint of cinnamon for a tasty side dish that’s hard to resist!
Honestly, I love how bright and fruity this sauce is. It’s perfect on turkey or just scooped onto some bread. You’ll want it at every dinner table! 🍊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are key for that tart flavor. If you can’t find fresh ones, frozen cranberries work just as well. Just skip the rinsing step and add them directly to the pot.
Granulated Sugar: Regular sugar balances the tartness. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute with honey or maple syrup. Just adjust the amount to taste since they’re sweeter.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice adds brightness. You can use store-bought, but make sure it’s 100% juice without added sugars. If you’re out of oranges, lemon juice is a good alternative, though it will be more tart.
Cinnamon and Cloves: Spices add warmth. If you don’t have ground cloves, just leave them out. A bit of nutmeg can also be used for a different twist.
How Do You Make Sure Your Cranberry Sauce Isn’t Too Tart?
A common worry is ending up with an overly tart cranberry sauce. The secret lies in balancing flavors correctly and cooking it right.
- Start with your sugar and adjust according to your taste preference. Adding more sugar helps offset the tartness.
- Make sure to simmer the sauce long enough. This allows more cranberries to burst, creating a thicker sauce that combines the sweet and tart flavors better.
- Let the sauce cool. As it cools, the flavors meld, and it may taste less tangy once everything is set.
Feel free to taste along the way. You can add more sugar or spices if it needs a little something extra! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Joanna Gaines Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (12-ounce) bag fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 2-3 oranges)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional, for extra citrus flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cranberry sauce takes about 30 minutes in total—15 minutes of prep and cooking, plus some time to cool before serving. It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for your holiday meals.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cranberries:
Start by rinsing the fresh cranberries under cold water. Check for any that look shriveled or damaged, and toss those out. You want to use only the good ones!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, fresh orange juice, and if you like, the orange zest for even more flavor. Add the ground cinnamon, ground cloves (if using), and a pinch of salt. Give it a nice stir to mix everything together.
3. Bring to a Boil:
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Keep stirring occasionally so the sugar dissolves completely. You’ll start to smell that delicious citrus aroma!
4. Add the Cranberries:
Once the mixture is boiling, add the fresh cranberries to the pot. Stir them in well so they’re coated with the sweet orange mixture.
5. Simmer the Sauce:
Let the mixture return to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally, and watch as many cranberries burst, releasing their juices and thickening the sauce. Keep simmering until you reach your desired thickness.
6. Cool and Store:
Remove the saucepan from heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature. As it cools, it will thicken even more. Once it’s cool, transfer the cranberry sauce to a serving dish or container.
7. Chill Before Serving:
Refrigerate the sauce until you’re ready to serve it. It’s delicious chilled, or you can serve it at room temperature! Enjoy this fantastic cranberry sauce alongside turkey, on sandwiches, or anytime you want a sweet and tart treat!
Happy cooking! 🎉
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen cranberries work perfectly! Just toss them directly into the saucepan without thawing. They will take a little longer to cook and may not burst as easily, but the flavor will still be great!
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
If you find the sauce too tart, simply add a bit more sugar while it’s simmering. Start with a tablespoon and taste as you go to achieve your preferred sweetness. You can also try honey or maple syrup for a different flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. This sauce keeps well and the flavors can deepen over time. Just give it a stir before serving again!
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare this cranberry sauce up to a week in advance. Just make sure to store it in the fridge, and it will be ready to complement your dishes whenever you need it!