Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest is a vibrant and flavorful addition to any holiday table. This homemade version is bursting with the natural tartness of fresh cranberries, balanced by the sweetness of sugar and the bright citrus notes of orange zest and juice. A hint of cinnamon adds warmth, making it a perfect companion for roasted turkey, ham, or any festive main dish. Quick and simple to make, this sauce is a must-have for Thanksgiving or Christmas, and the leftovers are equally delightful spread on sandwiches or stirred into yogurt.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (from 1-2 oranges)
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse the cranberries under cold water and discard any soft or damaged ones. Zest and juice the orange, reserving the zest for later use.
- Cook the Cranberry Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, water, and cinnamon (if using). Stir well and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Add Orange Zest: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the orange zest. Taste and adjust the sweetness if necessary, adding more sugar to balance the tartness.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cranberry sauce to cool to room temperature. It will continue to thicken as it cools. Transfer to a serving dish and refrigerate if making ahead.
This Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest can be made up to a week in advance, saving you time on busy holiday days. It’s the perfect combination of sweet, tart, and citrusy freshness to brighten up your festive feast!
