Description
This homemade cranberry sauce combines fresh cranberries with maple syrup and orange zest for a tangy, sweet, and vibrant accompaniment perfect for holiday meals or everyday dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh cranberries
- ½ cup maple syrup
- ¼ cup water
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the cranberries, maple syrup, water, orange zest, and salt. Stir frequently to prevent the syrup from burning.
- Simmer Sauce: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook, stirring often, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens, about 20 minutes. Keep in mind the sauce will further thicken as it cools.
- Adjust Flavor: Taste the sauce and add more maple syrup or orange zest if desired to balance the sweetness and brightness.
- Serve: Serve the cranberry sauce warm or at room temperature alongside your favorite dishes.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen cranberries; no need to thaw if frozen.
- Maple syrup adds a distinct flavor, but you can substitute with honey or brown sugar if preferred.
- Orange zest brightens the sauce; add extra zest for more citrus flavor.
- The sauce thickens more as it cools, so don’t overcook it.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 50 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 10 mg
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 13 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
