Cranberry Orange Sauce is a vibrant addition to any holiday table. Made with juicy cranberries, fresh orange juice, and a hint of zest, it’s the perfect blend of tart and sweet. Whether you’re serving it with turkey at Thanksgiving or using it as a spread for breakfast, this homemade sauce will brighten up your meals. Forget about the canned varieties; this fresh sauce is easy to make and incredibly flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Sauce

This Cranberry Orange Sauce is not only delicious but also offers numerous benefits:

It’s a healthy addition to your meals, low in calories and high in flavor.
Perfectly complements dishes like roasted turkey and holiday ham.
Versatile enough to be used in various recipes, including Cranberry Orange Relish and Cranberry Citrus Sauce.
Great for making ahead of time, saving you stress during busy holiday preparations.
Easy to customize with spices or additional fruits for a unique twist.
Suitable for various diets, including Vegan Cranberry Orange Sauce.
A fantastic way to use fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Sauce

Gather these items:

12 oz fresh cranberries
1 cup orange juice, freshly squeezed
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon orange zest
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
1 small sprig rosemary (optional)
Pinch salt

How to Make Cranberry Orange Sauce Step-by-Step

Step 1: Rinse the cranberries and discard any that are soft or damaged. Zest the orange before juicing it. Juice enough oranges to make 1 cup of juice.
Step 2: In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, sugar, orange zest, cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt. Add the rosemary if using.
Step 3: Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally as the cranberries begin to pop and the mixture starts to thicken.
Step 4: Simmer for about 10–15 minutes until most cranberries have burst and the sauce reaches your preferred consistency.
Step 5: Taste and adjust sweetness if needed. Remove the rosemary sprig if added.
Step 6: Let the sauce cool to room temperature, then transfer to a container or serving bowl. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cranberry Orange Sauce

Keep these in mind:

Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor.
Feel free to add a touch of spice, like ginger or nutmeg, for a warm flavor profile.
This sauce is great for holiday meals or everyday sides, as it adds color and flavor to your table.
Don’t forget to taste and adjust the sweetness according to your preference!

Cranberry Orange Sauce: 5 Reasons to Make It Now - Cranberry Orange Sauce - main visual representation

Best Ways to Serve Cranberry Orange Sauce

Here are some serving ideas:

Serve alongside roasted turkey for the best Cranberry Orange Sauce for turkey.
Use it as a spread on breakfast toast or pancakes.
Try it with cream cheese for a delicious dip.

How to Store and Reheat Cranberry Orange Sauce

Let the sauce cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Orange Sauce

What’s the secret to perfect Cranberry Orange Sauce?

The secret is using fresh ingredients! Fresh cranberries and orange juice create a vibrant, flavorful sauce that elevates any dish.

Can I make Cranberry Orange Sauce ahead of time?

Yes, this sauce can be made a few days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it will be ready when you need it!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cranberry Orange Sauce?

To avoid mistakes, ensure you use fresh cranberries and taste the sauce as it cooks. Adjust sweetness according to your preference for a balanced flavor.

Variations of Cranberry Orange Sauce You Can Try

Here are some fun variations:

Cranberry Orange Jam: Cook it longer to thicken, perfect for spreading.
Orange Cranberry Chutney: Add diced apples or pears for added texture.
Sugar-free Cranberry Orange Sauce: Substitute sugar with a sweetener of your choice.
Cranberry and Orange Compote: Use a mix of fruits for additional flavor.

For more information on the health benefits of cranberries, check out this Healthline article.