Imagine a cranberry sauce so magical it transforms your ordinary holiday meal into an extraordinary culinary experience. This Cinnamon Orange Scented Cranberry Sauce isn't just another side dish – it's a flavor explosion that will have your guests begging for the recipe! Forget bland, store-bought sauces; this homemade version brings together the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and warmly spiced flavors that will elevate your entire meal from good to absolutely unforgettable.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the fresh cranberries under cold water. Remove any stems or damaged berries, ensuring that only the best cranberries are used.
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the rinsed cranberries, 1 cup of sugar, and 1 cup of orange juice. Stir the mixture gently to ensure the cranberries are evenly coated with the sugar and juice.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat. As the mixture heats up, the sugar will dissolve, and the cranberries will start to pop. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Once the mixture reaches a gentle boil, reduce the heat to low. Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon of orange zest to the saucepan. Stir well to incorporate the spices and zest into the cranberry mixture.
- Continue to simmer the sauce for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Once the cranberry sauce has thickened, remove the saucepan from heat. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before transferring it to a serving bowl or storage container.
- For the best flavor, let the sauce cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Serve the Cinnamon Orange Scented Cranberry Sauce chilled or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with turkey, chicken, or as a topping for desserts.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Cranberries: Always select plump, firm cranberries with a deep red color for the best flavor and texture.
- Don't Rush the Cooking Process: Let the sauce simmer slowly to allow the cranberries to break down naturally and develop a rich, complex flavor.
- Zest Matters: Use fresh orange zest for the most vibrant citrus notes. Avoid the white pith, as it can add bitterness.
- Consistency is Key: If you prefer a smoother sauce, use the back of a spoon to mash some of the cranberries while cooking.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This sauce actually tastes better when made a day or two in advance, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Storage Tip: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it perfect for holiday meal prep.
- Serving Suggestion: Let the sauce come to room temperature before serving to maximize its flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 110kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
