This Cinnamon Cranberry Sauce is a tasty way to brighten up your meals. It’s sweet, a little tart, and packed with warm cinnamon flavor that makes it special.
You can whip it up in no time, and it’s great with turkey, chicken, or even on toast! I love to make extra so I can enjoy it later—it’s just that good! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are best for this sauce, providing the right tartness. If you can’t find fresh ones, frozen cranberries work too—just make sure they are thawed. I love using fresh ones when in season, as they have a vibrant flavor.
Sugar: You can replace granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness level. Just adjust the amount to your taste since these sweeteners can be sweeter. I’ve used maple syrup for a deeper flavor!
Cinnamon: While a cinnamon stick adds flavor, you can use 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon instead. I’ve done this when I was out of sticks, and it worked great. If you’re a cinnamon lover, feel free to add more!
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is ideal, but bottled juice is fine too. If you’re not a lemon fan, a splash of apple cider vinegar can offer a different tanginess. I usually keep both on hand for recipes like this!
Optional Orange Zest/Juice: Adding orange zest or juice gives a nice citrus touch. If you don’t have it, go without, or consider other citrus fruits like lime for a unique spin.
How Do I Keep My Cranberry Sauce From Being Too Runny?
The key to a satisfying texture is knowing when to stop cooking. When cranberries burst, they release pectin, which will help thicken the sauce. Here’s how to get it right:
- Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll see some cranberries burst, thickening the sauce.
- If it’s still too thin after cooling, try simmering again for a few more minutes.
- Allow it to cool completely; it will thicken as it sets.
With these tips, your cranberry sauce should turn out just right every time! Enjoy making it!
How to Make Cinnamon Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340g) fresh cranberries
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cinnamon stick, plus extra for garnish
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Optional: 1 teaspoon orange zest or orange juice for added citrus flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious cinnamon cranberry sauce will take about 20 minutes to make. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and cooking them together. After that, let it cool, and you’re ready to enjoy! It’s a quick and delightful addition to any meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse the Cranberries:
Start by rinsing the fresh cranberries in cold water. Make sure to remove any damaged or soft berries, as they can affect the sauce’s taste.
2. Dissolve the Sugar:
In a medium saucepan, mix the water and granulated sugar. Stir it over medium heat until the sugar has completely dissolved. This step is super important for a sweet and smooth sauce!
3. Cook the Cranberries:
Add the rinsed cranberries and the cinnamon stick to the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll see the cranberries start to burst, and the sauce will begin to thicken.
4. Add Flavor:
Once the cranberries burst, stir in the lemon juice. If you’re using the optional orange zest or juice, add that as well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring that the sauce reaches your preferred thickness.
5. Cool the Sauce:
Remove the cinnamon stick from the sauce. Transfer the sauce to a serving bowl and let it cool to room temperature. It will thicken even more as it cools, so be patient!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with extra cinnamon sticks or fresh rosemary sprigs if you like. Serve your cinnamon cranberry sauce chilled or at room temperature with your favorite dishes—it’s perfect for adding a burst of flavor to holiday meals or everyday dinners!
Enjoy your homemade cinnamon cranberry sauce—it’s sure to impress everyone at the table!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead?
Yes, you can! Just make sure they are fully thawed before using. Frozen cranberries work well, and the sauce will taste just as delicious as with fresh ones!
How Long Does Cinnamon Cranberry Sauce Last?
This sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. The flavors will continue to deepen as it sits, making it even better!
Can I Adjust the Sweetness Level?
Absolutely! If you prefer a less sweet sauce, simply reduce the sugar by a few tablespoons. You can also taste the sauce as it cooks and adjust the sweetness according to your preference.
Can I Add Other Ingredients for Flavor?
Yes! Feel free to include additional spices such as ginger or cloves for a more complex flavor. Nuts like chopped pecans or walnuts can also add a nice crunch if desired!
