This spiced cranberry sauce is a zesty blend of tart cranberries and warm spices like cinnamon and cloves. It’s the perfect sidekick for your holiday meals!
I love how easy it is to whip up this sauce. Just simmer the ingredients, and you’re set! Plus, it’s a colorful addition that steals the show. Who knew sauce could be so fun? 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are key here for that tart flavor. If you don’t have fresh, you can use frozen cranberries—just don’t thaw them first. They’ll still work nicely in the sauce!
Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness, which balances the tartness. For a healthier twist, you can substitute with honey or maple syrup, just adjust the volume since they’re liquids.
Spices: The spices bring warmth to the sauce. If you’re out of star anise, try using just a bit more cinnamon or a few more cloves. If you like things spicy, add a pinch of ground ginger or nutmeg!
Orange: Zest and juice add brightness. If you’re out of fresh oranges, you can substitute with lemon juice and a bit of lemon zest for a different twist.
How Do I Get My Cranberries to Burst Perfectly?
Getting your cranberries to burst evenly is crucial for the right texture. Here are some tips:
- Start with rinsed and sorted cranberries, removing any bad ones. This ensures you’re only cooking the good berries.
- Simmering at a low heat allows the cranberries to burst gently without turning into mush. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking!
- Keep an eye on them for about 10-15 minutes. They’re done when they start to pop and the sauce thickens!
Letting the sauce cool down will help it thicken more. Enjoy your delicious, homemade cranberry sauce! 🌟
How to Make Spiced Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) fresh cranberries
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (240 ml) water
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2–3 whole cloves
- 1 star anise
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 tbsp orange juice
- Optional: 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg or ground ginger for extra warmth
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and another 15-20 minutes simmering the sauce. Let it cool for a bit, and then you’re ready to enjoy it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cranberries:
Begin by rinsing the fresh cranberries under cold water. Look through them and discard any that are soft or bruised. These little beauties should be firm for the best texture!
2. Make the Simple Syrup:
In a medium saucepan, combine the water and granulated sugar. Turn the heat to medium and stir the mixture until the sugar has completely dissolved. This should only take a few minutes.
3. Add Spices and Zest:
Once the sugar is dissolved, add the cinnamon stick, cloves, star anise, and the zest of the orange into the saucepan. Bring this fragrant mixture to a gentle boil—it smells amazing already!
4. Cook the Cranberries:
Now, stir in the rinsed cranberries. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Keep an eye on the pot and stir occasionally for about 10-15 minutes, until the cranberries soften and burst. This is what gives the sauce its lovely texture!
5. Add Orange Juice and Spice:
After the cranberries have cooked down, add the orange juice along with the optional ground nutmeg or ginger if you want that extra warmth. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes to let those flavors meld together.
6. Cool and Strain:
Remove the saucepan from the heat and take out the cinnamon stick, cloves, and star anise. Let the sauce cool at room temperature—don’t worry if it looks a little runny; as it cools, it will thicken up nicely!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the sauce has cooled, it’s ready to serve! You can enjoy it chilled or at room temperature. This spiced cranberry sauce is the perfect tangy addition to your holiday meals, or just because!
Bon appétit! Enjoy the vibrant, tangy, and warmly spiced flavors of this classic holiday condiment!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries! Just add them directly to the saucepan without thawing. They might take a minute or two longer to cook down, but the result will still be delicious!
How Long Does Spiced Cranberry Sauce Last?
This cranberry sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. It’s a great make-ahead option for your holiday meals!
Can I Adjust the Sweetness Level?
Absolutely! If you prefer a less sweet sauce, simply reduce the amount of sugar. Start with 3/4 cup and taste as you go. You can always add a bit more if needed!
Is There a Way to Make This Sauce Thicker?
If you want a thicker cranberry sauce, let it simmer a bit longer until it reaches your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water) and simmer for a few more minutes to thicken it up.