This spiced cranberry sauce is a colorful and zesty side dish that brightens up any table. With hints of cinnamon and nutmeg, it’s a festive treat everyone will love!
Making this sauce is a breeze! Just simmer the cranberries with sugar and spices—the smells will have you feeling all the holiday vibes. I like to serve it warm or cold for maximum yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are essential for this recipe. If you can’t find fresh ones, frozen cranberries work well too. Just don’t thaw them before cooking!
Sugar: Granulated sugar is what gives this sauce its sweetness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute with honey or maple syrup, but adjust the amount to taste since they are sweeter.
Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These spices bring warmth to the sauce. Feel free to modify the spice levels based on your preference. If you like it spicier, add a bit more cinnamon or a dash of ginger.
Orange Zest and Juice: The fresh zest and juice add a lovely citrus twist. If oranges aren’t available, lemon juice can work as a substitute, but it will change the flavor a bit!
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from the Spices?
To enhance the flavor of the spices, it’s key to incorporate them correctly. Here are simple steps:
- Add them to the pot with the water and sugar early on. This allows the spices to infuse the syrup as it heats.
- Always let your cranberries simmer long enough for the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken—10-15 minutes does the trick.
- If you enjoy a herbal touch, adding a sprig of fresh rosemary during cooking adds an aromatic depth.
How to Make Spiced Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sauce:
- 12 oz (340 g) fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- 1 teaspoon fresh orange zest (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
- 1 small sprig of fresh rosemary (for infusing and garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This spiced cranberry sauce will take about 20-25 minutes to prepare. The cooking time is around 10-15 minutes, plus a few minutes for prep and cooling. A quick and tasty addition to your meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cranberries:
Start by rinsing the cranberries under cold water. Make sure to pick out any soft or damaged berries so your sauce is nice and fresh.
2. Make the Sugar Mixture:
In a medium saucepan, combine the water and sugar along with the ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves (if you’re using them). Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Add the Cranberries:
Next, add the rinsed cranberries, fresh orange zest, and orange juice to the saucepan. Give everything a good toss so the cranberries are well coated with the mixture.
4. Cook the Sauce:
Bring the mixture to a boil, and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the sprig of fresh rosemary for extra flavor. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes while stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the cranberries will start to burst, and the sauce will thicken.
5. Finish Up:
Once the cranberries have burst and the sauce is thickened to your liking, remove it from the heat. Take out the rosemary sprig and let the sauce cool slightly. It will thicken even more as it cools!
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Transfer the sauce to a serving bowl. For a pretty presentation, garnish with some extra orange zest and a small sprig of rosemary if you like. This sauce can be served warm or chilled—either way, it’s a delicious complement to roast meats or holiday dishes!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries can be substituted directly for fresh ones. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the simmering time to ensure they are fully cooked through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cranberry sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container. To thaw, leave it in the fridge overnight before serving.
Can I Adjust the Sweetness in the Recipe?
Yes, feel free to adjust the sugar amount to your taste! If you prefer it less sweet, start with 3/4 cup of sugar and gradually add more to reach your desired sweetness.
What Can I Use Instead of Fresh Rosemary?
If fresh rosemary isn’t available, you can omit it or use dried rosemary—just a pinch will do since dried herbs are more potent. Alternatively, fresh thyme or sage make great substitutes for a different flavor profile!
