Easy Cranberry Sauce Recipe

Holidays have a special way of connecting the present moment to all the past celebrations that came before it. The scent of spices in the air, the warm hum of laughter filling the house, and the joy found in even the simplest dishes bring a sense of continuity.

For me, few things embody that feeling better than homemade cranberry sauce. It might be a small part of the feast, but it carries a big load of meaning. Growing up, I remember peering into my grandmother’s kitchen, watching her gently stir a pan of cranberries until they popped and bubbled into a sweet, tangy sauce that tasted like the season itself. Over the years, I’ve kept her tradition alive, adding my own twist: the bright, zesty spark of lemon. 

I hope you will enjoy this super yummy cranberry sauce recipe. Try spreading them over your holiday meals and have as much fun as we did eating big spoonfuls of it! 

For more holiday inspiration, I’ve put together the best and most popular Thanksgiving and Christmas side dishes so it’s effortless for you to whip up these quick and easy recipes to impress your family and guests. Along with this delicious Cranberry Sauce, you will also love my Classic Holiday Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows, Classic Southern Scalloped Corn Casserole, Classic Green Bean Casserole, and my Perfectly Moist Homemade Cornbread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal Effort, Major Reward: Just a handful of ingredients and one saucepan are all you need.
• Fresh & Flavorful: Whole cranberries deliver more texture and depth, with a natural sweet-tart balance.
• Customizable: Add a pop of citrus or a sprinkle of spice to make it your own.

Nutritional Benefits

For those concerned with health and nutrition amid the indulgence of holiday feasts, cranberries offer some advantages. They’re high in antioxidants and provide a good dose of vitamin C. Lemon zest contributes a bit more vitamin C and beneficial phytochemicals found in citrus peel. While sugar is present, remember that a little sauce goes a long way. Its bold flavor means you won’t need a huge portion to experience its magic. Think of it as a bright accent on your plate, one that not only tastes good but also delivers some wholesome fruit into the meal. 

Ingredients

This recipe comes together easily, requiring just a handful of ingredients—fresh cranberries, a touch of sugar, a bit of water, and lemon zest. Each component plays its part in bringing out the best of the berries.

• 2 Pounds (907 g) fresh Ocean Spray cranberries (or frozen, if that’s what you have on hand)
  • Cranberries are naturally tart, and sugar helps balance that sharpness, while water ensures a smooth simmer and proper consistency.
• 1 cup (200 g) sugar (feel free to adjust if you prefer a more tart or sweeter sauce)
• ½ cup (120 ml) water
• 2 tablespoons (15.6 g) lemon zest (optional but highly recommended for extra zing)
  • The addition of lemon zest might seem subtle, but don’t underestimate it. That fragrant citrus oil, released as you zest the peel, lifts the sauce to a higher plane. It brings freshness and complexity, making this cranberry sauce stand out from the packaged varieties that often lack real character. 

Doctor Delicious Tip: If you’re looking to add some cozy holiday flair, throw in a cinnamon stick or some orange zest. Play around and find that sweet spot your tastebuds love!

How to Make Cranberry Sauce

1. Gather Your Ingredients:
Start by collecting all the necessary ingredients: fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, and a lemon for zest. You’ll also need a medium saucepan and a stirring spoon. Place the fresh cranberries, sugar, and lemon on a clean surface to ensure everything is ready before you begin.

2. Combine Cranberries, Sugar, and Zest in a Saucepan:
Pour the fresh cranberries into the saucepan. Sprinkle the measured sugar evenly over the top. Using a fine grater or zester, add lemon zest to the mixture, allowing the bright citrus aroma to meld with the berries and sugar.  Add the required amount of water (as indicated by your recipe) to the saucepan. Place the saucepan on the stovetop over medium heat. As the mixture warms, gently stir to help the sugar dissolve and the cranberries begin to soften.

3. Simmer Until the Cranberries Pop:
Keep the heat at a steady simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You’ll soon notice the cranberries popping open as they release their natural juices. This process will gradually transform the mixture into a thick, vibrant, ruby-red sauce.  Continue simmering the cranberry mixture until it reaches the consistency you prefer. For a chunkier sauce, simmer a bit less; for a smoother, jam-like texture, allow it to cook a little longer. Stir frequently toward the end to ensure an even thickness and no scorching.

4. Remove from Heat and Cool:
Once the cranberry sauce has thickened to your liking, remove the saucepan from the heat. Spoon the finished cranberry sauce into a serving bowl. Set it aside to cool for about 10–15 minutes. As it cools, it will thicken further, enhancing its rich, glossy appearance.

5. Transfer and Garnish:
For an elegant presentation, top it with a few edible flowers or simply leave it plain for a more rustic feel. Your homemade cranberry sauce is now ready to serve as a flavorful addition to your meal.

Pro Tips

• Consistency: Prefer it thinner? Stir in a splash of water or orange juice. Craving a thicker sauce? Simmer it a bit longer, and remember it’ll set more once chilled.
• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Pro tip: Spread it on turkey sandwiches or swirl it into yogurt the next day—pure bliss!
• Flavor Boosters: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla extract for a unique twist.

FAQ

1. Can I make the cranberry sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare this sauce a couple of days before your gathering. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve—it’ll taste even better as the flavors meld.

2. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Cranberry sauce freezes very well. Place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving a little room for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

3. What if I prefer a sweeter sauce?
Simply add extra sugar (or even honey) in small increments until it hits your desired sweetness level.