Forktionary

Basic Cranberry Sauce Recipe

Ditch the canned cranberry sauce this Thanksgiving! This simple recipe delivers a vibrant, homemade cranberry sauce in just 15 minutes. It's bursting with fresh cranberry flavor and the perfect tangy complement to your holiday feast. Surprisingly easy and unbelievably delicious – elevate your Thanksgiving table with this must-make side dish.

Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Calories 232.6 kcal
Protein 0g
Rating 4.8 (6 Reviews)
Basic Cranberry Sauce

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Basic Cranberry Sauce

  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • Pinch of salt
  • 12 ounces (about 3 cups) fresh cranberries

How to Make Basic Cranberry Sauce

  1. Combine 1 cup water, 1 cup sugar, and a pinch of salt in a medium, non-reactive saucepan over high heat.
  2. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring occasionally to ensure the sugar dissolves completely.
  3. Add 12 ounces (about 3 cups) of fresh cranberries to the boiling mixture.
  4. Return the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer gently, uncovered, for 5-7 minutes, or until about 2/3 of the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened slightly.
  5. Remove from heat and let cool completely at room temperature before serving. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Elevate your dish with simple flavor boosters! A final flourish of freshly chopped herbs can add incredible brightness, while a squeeze of lemon or lime juice right before serving can awaken all the flavors. Don't underestimate a sprinkle of quality finishing salt or a drizzle of good olive oil to make your creation shine.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

6 g

Sugar

213g

Fat

0g

Carbs

20g

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15 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Course Main Ingredient Preparation Occasion Low Protein Healthy 5 Ingredients Or Less Sauces Condiments Etc Fruit Easy Holiday Event Low Fat Stove Top Dietary Thanksgiving Low Sodium Low Cholesterol Low Saturated Fat Healthy 2 Sweet Sauces Low In Something Equipment