This bourbon cranberry sauce is a fun twist on the classic recipe! It combines tangy cranberries with the warmth of bourbon for a sweet and zesty side dish.
You can easily make it in just 20 minutes. It’s perfect for holidays or any dinner—plus, the flavor is so good, you’ll want to eat it straight from the bowl! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are ideal for this recipe due to their tartness. Frozen cranberries can also work well, just make sure to thaw and rinse them before use.
Bourbon: This adds warmth and depth to the sauce. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can substitute with apple cider or omit it for a simpler cranberry taste.
Orange Juice and Zest: Freshly squeezed juice is best for vibrant flavor. If you don’t have fresh oranges, bottled juice works too, but it may lack some freshness.
Granulated Sugar: You can reduce the sugar for a less sweet sauce or use honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile, though this may slightly change the texture.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Sauce Consistency?
The key to a great cranberry sauce is to simmer until it reaches your desired thickness. Here’s how:
- Start by simmering the mixture of sugar, water, and flavorings first. This helps ensure the sugar dissolves properly.
- Once you add the cranberries, keep stirring gently. The popping sounds you hear from the cranberries mean they’re breaking down and releasing pectin, which thickens the sauce.
- If you prefer a chunky sauce, simmer for about 10 minutes. For a smoother sauce, mash some cranberries and cook for 15 minutes or until it thickens.
Finally, remember that the sauce will continue to thicken as it cools. Giving it a little time at room temperature can enhance the texture even more!
Bourbon Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) fresh or frozen cranberries
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- Fresh rosemary sprig and extra orange zest, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful bourbon cranberry sauce takes about 20 minutes to make—just 10 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cooking. Plus, it gets even better as it cools, making it a perfect side for your holiday meals!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cranberries:
Start by rinsing the cranberries under cold water. Make sure to pick out any stems or bad berries to ensure your sauce is all good and tasty!
2. Make the Base:
In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, water, bourbon, freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, cinnamon stick, ground ginger (if you’re using it), and a pinch of salt. Stir the mixture gently and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Keep stirring until the sugar has fully dissolved.
3. Cook the Cranberries:
Add the rinsed cranberries to the saucepan. Cook them over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You’ll start to hear the cranberries pop—this is a good sign! It usually takes about 10 minutes for them to break down.
4. Thicken the Sauce:
Continue to simmer the mixture until it thickens to your liking, which should take an additional 10-15 minutes. Once it has reached your desired consistency, remove the saucepan from heat and discard the cinnamon stick.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer your beautiful bourbon cranberry sauce to a serving bowl. If you want to make it fancy, garnish with a fresh rosemary sprig and a sprinkle of extra orange zest!
6. Cool and Enjoy:
Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature. Remember, it will thicken even more as it cools. Serve this delicious sauce alongside turkey, chicken, or any festive meal. Enjoy your flavorful bourbon cranberry sauce!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries are a great alternative. Just make sure to thaw and rinse them before adding to the sauce.
How Can I Make This Sauce Less Sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet sauce, try reducing the sugar by 1/4 cup. You can also add more orange juice for additional flavor without the added sweetness!
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the bourbon cranberry sauce up to three days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and reheat it gently on the stove before serving.
What Are the Best Ways to Serve Bourbon Cranberry Sauce?
This sauce pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, chicken, or pork. You can also serve it with cream cheese and crackers for a tasty appetizer!
