This Classic Whole-Berry Cranberry Sauce Recipe is a staple for holiday meals and pairs perfectly with turkey and other dishes. Made with fresh cranberries, sugar, and a hint of citrus, it delivers a balance of tartness and sweetness.
The recipe is simple and can be customized with additional flavors like tangerine or spices to create variations such as Cranberry Tangerine Sauce or Spicy Cranberry Sauce. It’s an easy berry sauce recipe that can also be adapted for sugar-free options.
Creating the Perfect Classic Whole-Berry Cranberry Sauce
The Classic Whole-Berry Cranberry Sauce Recipe is a must-have for festive gatherings. This vibrant sauce not only enhances the holiday table but also complements turkey and various side dishes beautifully.
Made with fresh cranberries, sugar, and a hint of citrus, this berry sauce strikes a delightful balance between tartness and sweetness.
For those looking to experiment, variations such as Cranberry Tangerine Sauce or Spicy Cranberry Sauce can be easily crafted, allowing for a personalized touch to your holiday meals.
With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, this easy berry sauce recipe is accessible to all home cooks, including those interested in sugar-free cranberry sauce recipes.
Ingredients for a Festive Flavor
To create this whole berry cranberry sauce, gather the following ingredients: fresh cranberries, granulated sugar (or a sugar substitute for a sugar-free version), water, and the zest and juice of an orange.
Optional spices like ground cinnamon or ginger can be added for an extra layer of flavor, making this sauce versatile and adaptable to your taste preferences.
This combination of ingredients results in a rich, ruby-colored sauce that is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor, making it a standout berry sauce topping for any holiday dish.
Step-by-Step Preparation
Preparing this whole berry cranberry sauce is a straightforward process. Start by rinsing the cranberries under cold water, ensuring that any damaged berries are removed.
Next, combine the cranberries with sugar, water, orange zest, and juice in a medium saucepan.
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
Enhancing the Flavor Profile
Once the sauce has thickened, consider adding spices like ground cinnamon or ginger. This step is optional but can elevate the flavor profile of your cranberry sauce, making it even more delicious.
After cooking, allow the sauce to cool to room temperature. It will continue to thicken as it cools, achieving the perfect consistency for serving.
This whole berry cranberry sauce can be served immediately or stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it a convenient addition to your holiday meal prep.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This classic whole-berry cranberry sauce is a versatile condiment that pairs wonderfully with turkey, ham, and various side dishes.
Its vibrant color and rich flavor make it an attractive addition to any holiday table setting.
For a creative twist, try using it as a topping for desserts or breakfast items, such as pancakes or yogurt, showcasing its adaptability beyond traditional uses.
Storing and Enjoying Your Sauce
Once prepared, this easy berry sauce recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
It can last up to a week, making it a great option for meal planning during the busy holiday season.
Whether you choose to serve it fresh or store it for later, this whole berry cranberry sauce will surely be a highlight of your festive meals, bringing joy and flavor to every bite.
Easy Whole-Berry Cranberry Sauce Recipe
This whole berry cranberry sauce features plump cranberries cooked down with sugar and citrus zest, resulting in a vibrant and flavorful sauce. The recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish and serves 8 people.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar (or sugar substitute for sugar-free version)
- 1 cup water
- Zest of 1 orange
- Juice of 1 orange
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon or ginger for added spice
Instructions
- Prepare the Cranberries: Rinse the cranberries under cold water and remove any stems or damaged berries.
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, orange zest, and orange juice.
- Cook the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Add Spices: If desired, stir in ground cinnamon or ginger for added flavor.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature. It will thicken further as it cools. Serve as a berry sauce topping for your holiday dishes or store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 8 servings
- Calories: 110kcal
- Fat: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g