Homemade Cranberry Sauce

Kristen Massad — Mon, 24 Nov 2025 05:03:02 +0000

There is nothing more nostalgic on a Thanksgiving table than a bowl of vibrant, Homemade Cranberry Sauce. This classic and easy Cranberry Sauce comes together in less than 15 minutes and adds the perfect sweet-tart pop to your turkey, ham or savory stuffing. Made with only five ingredients, this recipe brings comfort, color and a classic holiday flavor without any fuss.

There is something magical about a bowl of Homemade Cranberry Sauce on the Thanksgiving table-bright, sweet/tart and made in minutes. It brings the perfect pop of color and flavor to every plate. This simple holiday side dish is a perfect addition to go with all your favorite fall and Thanksgiving classics, like our Classic Pumpkin Pie, the irresistibly creamy Baked Brie and Pumpkin Butter appetizer and the Best Apple Cider Tequila Punch. Whether you are hosing a big crowd or keeping things cozy and small, this easy cranberry sauce ties your whole holiday menu together with a burst of fresh, seasonal flavor.

Ingredient Notes

Fresh Cranberries
Only use fresh cranberries for this recipe. They burst as they cook, creating a naturally thick and glossy sauce.

Orange Juice + Zest
Fresh orange juice brightens the flavor and balances the tartness of the cranberries. Adding bit of zest intensifies the citrus notes and gives the sauce a fresh finish.

Light Brown Sugar
Adding a sweetness to the tart cranberries, light brown sugar is a great caramelized flavor. You can adjust the sweetness to taste.

Water
A small amount of water helps the cranberries simmer evenly without burning.

Optional Add-Ins
Cinnamon Sticks are a great addition for a simple fall spiced flavor, Vanilla extract or bourbon, or chopped apples for another texture.

Tips for the Best Cranberry Sauce

Don't Overcook: Once the cranberries have burst remove the cranberry sauce from the heat. Over cooking could make the sauce way to thick and bitter.
It thickens as it cools: Don't worry if it doesn't look super thick, as it cools the sauce will get thicker.
Make it ahead: Cranberry Sauce is the perfect recipe to make ahead of time. You can me this up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Serve: This recipe can be served at room temperature or chilled!

FAQS

Can I use frozen cranberries?

You can use frozen cranberries but you will get the best results and flavor using fresh.

Can I reduces the sugar?

You can but the cranberry sauce will be very tart in flavor.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just use a larger pot to prevent splattering as the cranberries burst.

Can I make this ahead of Thanksgiving?

Yes, this is one of the best dishes to prepare in advance. It tastes even better the next day straight from the fridge.

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