This bright and tangy orange amaretto cranberry sauce is a fun twist on the classic dish. It combines sweet oranges, almonds, and tart cranberries for a delightful flavor party!
Trust me, this sauce is perfect for any holiday table. I love slathering it on turkey sandwiches the next day—so good! It’s a festivity to duplicate, not just a side!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries give the best flavor and texture. If you can’t find them, frozen cranberries work. Just skip rinsing and use them straight from the bag.
Amaretto liqueur: This adds a nice almond flavor. If you want a non-alcoholic version, try using almond extract. Start with a small amount (1 teaspoon) since it’s concentrated!
Orange juice and zest: Fresh is best, as it’s bursting with flavor. If you’re in a pinch, bottled orange juice can work, but fresh zest adds a fragrant touch. You could also use lemon juice for a brighter taste.
Granulated sugar: White sugar balances the tartness of cranberries. You can substitute with brown sugar for a richer flavor or use a sugar alternative if you’re reducing sugar.
How Do You Get the Perfect Cranberry Sauce Texture?
Achieving the right texture for cranberry sauce involves simmering the cranberries just long enough. Here are some tips:
- Start by bringing the mix to a gentle boil; this allows the cranberries to burst and soften.
- Simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes. Stir often and watch for the berries to pop!
- If you like your sauce chunkier, remove it from heat sooner. For a smoother texture, let it cook longer.
Allow the sauce to cool; it will thicken more as it sets. Serve it at room temperature for the best flavor experience! Enjoy your holiday dishes!
Orange Amaretto Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (about 3 cups) fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 2 large oranges)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (from 1 orange)
- 1/4 cup amaretto liqueur
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious cranberry sauce will take about 10 minutes of active cooking time, plus some chilling time. Overall, set aside around 30 minutes to prepare and cool the sauce before serving. It’s quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cranberries:
First, rinse the fresh cranberries under cold water. Take a moment to pick out any stems or berries that aren’t looking good. It’s important for the best flavor!
2. Make the Sauce Base:
In a medium saucepan, add the fresh orange juice, granulated sugar, and the cinnamon stick. Set the stove to medium heat and stir the mixture until the sugar fully dissolves.
3. Add the Cranberries:
Next, toss the rinsed cranberries into the saucepan. Gently stir everything together, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This is where the magic happens!
4. Simmer and Thicken:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Let the cranberries simmer while stirring occasionally. You’ll notice they’ll start to burst, which takes about 10-15 minutes, and the sauce will begin to thicken slightly.
5. Add Flavorings:
After simmering, carefully remove the cinnamon stick from the pot. Now, stir in the orange zest, amaretto liqueur, and optional vanilla extract along with a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
6. Final Simmer:
Allow the sauce to simmer for another 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors nicely. It’s already smelling amazing, isn’t it?
7. Cool and Transfer:
Once it’s done, remove the pan from the heat. Let the sauce cool slightly in the pan—it will continue to thicken as it cools down. Then, transfer the cranberry sauce into a jar or serving bowl.
8. Ready to Serve:
Feel free to garnish with extra orange zest if you like! You can serve this delightful sauce chilled or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, or even on a holiday dessert!
This vibrant sauce beautifully combines the tart cranberries with sweet orange and nutty amaretto, accented by warm cinnamon—a perfect festive addition! Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead?
Yes, frozen cranberries can be used! Just add them directly to the saucepan without thawing. They may take a minute or two longer to cook down, but the flavor will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftover Cranberry Sauce?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge before serving!
What If I Want a Sweeter Sauce?
If you prefer a sweeter sauce, just add a bit more sugar! Start with an extra tablespoon, tasting as you go. You can also mix in some maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This cranberry sauce can be made 1-2 days ahead of time. Just prepare it and refrigerate. The flavors will meld beautifully, making it even tastier!