This Cranberry Vanilla Sauce is a sweet and tangy treat that’s perfect for your holiday meals. It combines fresh cranberries with a splash of vanilla for a delightful twist!
The best part? It’s super easy to make! Just simmer, stir, and you’ll have a beautiful sauce that adds a pop of flavor to turkey or dessert. Your taste buds will thank you! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are the star here with their tart flavor. Frozen ones are a great alternative if fresh aren’t available. Just make sure to rinse them well!
Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness. You could try using honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness, but keep in mind it may alter the flavor a bit.
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract is the best choice for rich flavor. If you’re short on it, you could use vanilla bean paste or even a dash of almond extract for a different twist.
Orange Zest: This is optional but I love adding it for brightness. If you don’t have an orange, lemon zest provides a nice alternative.
How Do I Make Sure My Cranberries Cook Perfectly?
Cooking cranberries can be tricky if you’re not careful. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by rinsing the cranberries and checking them for any bad ones. This ensures your sauce is fresh.
- When boiling, keep a close eye. Bring it to a gentle boil—don’t rush it! This helps them burst and release their juicy goodness.
- Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps evenly cook the cranberries and prevent sticking.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract after. Adding it at the end keeps that fresh vanilla flavor intact.
These tips will help you create a delicious sauce that’s sure to impress!
Cranberry Vanilla Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 ounces (about 3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional for extra citrus brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful sauce will take about 15 minutes to prepare, including cooking time. Let it cool after cooking, and it thickens up nicely. So, an additional 30 minutes is nice to allow it to chill or rest before serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse the Cranberries:
Start by rinsing your cranberries under cold water. Look through them and toss out any that are soft, shriveled, or blemished. This ensures your sauce tastes fresh and delicious!
2. Combine Water and Sugar:
In a medium saucepan, combine the 3/4 cup water and 1 cup granulated sugar. Heat it over medium heat while stirring gently until the sugar has dissolved completely. This is the sweet base of your sauce!
3. Add the Cranberries:
Once the sugar is dissolved, add your rinsed cranberries to the saucepan. Increase the heat a bit and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. You’ll start to hear some sizzling as the cranberries heat up.
4. Simmer the Mixture:
Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally during this time. Keep an eye on it as the cranberries begin to burst and the sauce thickens. It should become a lovely deep red color!
5. Add Vanilla and Orange Zest:
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and the optional 1 teaspoon of orange zest, if you’re using it. This adds a wonderful aroma and flavor that pairs beautifully with cranberries!
6. Cool the Sauce:
Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature. As it cools, it will continue to thicken up beautifully. Give it a good mix before serving!
7. Serve or Store:
Transfer your Cranberry Vanilla Sauce to a serving bowl, or store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. It can be served chilled or at room temperature.
This sauce is perfect alongside turkey, roasted meats, or even drizzled over desserts. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh. Just rinse them under cold water before adding them to the saucepan. There’s no need to thaw them; they will cook perfectly while simmering!
How Do I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
If you prefer a less sweet sauce, simply reduce the amount of granulated sugar. Start with 3/4 cup instead of 1 cup and taste-test during cooking. You can always add a little more sugar if needed!
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! This sauce can be made up to a week in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It tastes even better after sitting for a couple of days as the flavors meld together.
What’s the Best Way to Serve Cranberry Vanilla Sauce?
This sauce is fantastic served with turkey or roasted meats. It also pairs wonderfully with desserts like cheesecake or ice cream. Serve it cold or at room temperature for the best flavor!
