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how to make 15 minute homemade orange cranberry sauce naturally sweetened

15 Minute Homemade Orange Cranberry Sauce Naturally Sweetened

Before diving into the wonder of homemade orange cranberry sauce, let’s consider how this delightful condiment elevates various dishes.
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Course: Condiment
Cuisine: American
Keyword: 15 Minute Homemade Orange Cranberry Sauce Naturally Sweetened
Servings: 6
Calories: 100kcal

Equipment

  • Saucepan

Ingredients

  • 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice: Preferably from Valencia or navel oranges.
  • ½ cup pure maple syrup or honey: Naturally sweetens without adding processed sugars.
  • 1 tablespoon bourbon whiskey, brandy, or Scotch (optional): Adds depth and a hint of warmth.
  • 1 pound fresh or frozen cranberries: The stars of the show.
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: A touch of sweetness and richness.
  • Zest of one medium orange: For added flavor and aroma.
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth without overwhelming the flavor.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

  • Start by gathering all your ingredients. Freshly squeezed orange juice adds flavor. If you’re using frozen cranberries, ensure they’re thawed.

Step 2: Combine and Cook

  • In a saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange juice, maple syrup (or honey), orange zest, and cinnamon. Mix them well.

Step 3: Heat the Mixture

  • Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. It should start bubbling. As it cooks, you’ll hear the cranberries pop. This is normal and exciting!

Step 4: Stir Occasionally

  • Stir the mixture every few minutes. This helps prevent sticking and allows even cooking.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

  • After about 10 minutes, taste the sauce. If you want more sweetness, add additional maple syrup or honey.

Step 6: Cool It Down

  • Once the cranberries have burst and the mixture thickens, remove the pan from the heat. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

  • If you want to add a splash of bourbon or whiskey for complexity, do so at this stage. Stir it in and let the sauce cool completely before transferring to a serving dish.

Notes

  • Fresh vs. Frozen Cranberries: Both work well. Fresh cranberries may give a slightly better texture, but frozen are convenient year-round.
  • Adjust Sweetness to Preference: Taste as you go! Adjust the sweetness with additional maple syrup or honey based on your palate.
  • Add More Spices: Incorporate extra spices like ginger or nutmeg for a personal touch.
  • Serving Temperature: This sauce tastes great warm or cold. Feel free to reheat gently if making ahead.
  • Don’t Skip the Zest: The zest intensifies the orange flavor. It's small but crucial in this recipe.

Nutrition

Calories: 100kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 1g | Sugar: 19g
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