I proudly present: the best Cranberry Orange Sauce recipe. It’s ready in 20 minutes,sweet and subtly spiced.
Thie Sauce from scratch Made with common ingredients you likely already have on hand or can find at any local grocery store.

I used to think cranberry sauce was just that jiggly canned stuff that you slice like a loaf of bread and that was the cranberry experience at our holiday table for years and honestly, we didn’t question it because it was tradition.
But then plot twist I made it from scratch using real cranberries and adding orange zest and suddenly I thought, where had this been all my life.
The first time I tried making it, I didn’t even measure correctly because I used too much sugar and I forgot to zest the orange but even so, it turned out better than the canned blob so go figure.

Now it’s a staple because it’s bright and tangy and sweet with a little bite and it fills your kitchen with the smell of holiday magic.
Have you ever made it yourself If not, then you’re about to feel very accomplished because it’s way easier than you’d expect and as a bonus, you won’t even need a can opener.
So are you ready.Let’s do this.
Ingredients :
- about 3 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/4 cup water
- Optional: pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor

How to Make Cranberry Orange Sauce
Step 1
The first thing you need to do is wash the cranberries: Start by washing them under cold water. Remove any soft or damaged berries. Then combine the ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, orange peel, and water. Gently stir until combined.
Step 2
Now, bring the mixture to a boil: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a boil. This will take about 4-5 minutes. Then, simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer the mixture. The cranberries will begin to split this is normal and enjoyable! Stir occasionally.


Step 3
And cook until the mixture thickens: Continue simmering the sauce for 10-12 minutes, or until it begins to thicken. It will appear runny while hot, but it will thicken as it cools.
Step 4
Now, let it cool: Remove from heat and let it cool at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. Then, transfer it to a serving or storage container. Finally, if you’d like to chill it optionally: you can serve the sauce warm, at room temperature, or chilled it’s delicious either way!
Kitchen Equipment Needed :
To make these yummy Cranberry Orange Saucel you’ll only need a few basic kitchen tools :
- Medium-sized saucepan
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Zester or fine grater
- Citrus juicer optional
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Serving bowl or storage container
Tips for the Best Cranberry Orange Sauce
Don’t Overcook: Simmer just until most berries pop and sauce thickens.
Add Spices: Try a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice for a holiday twist.
Add Nuts: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans after cooling for a crunchy bite.

What to Eat with Cranberry Orange Sauce ??
I love eating this sauce with bread or muffins.An essential item on the breakfast table.It adds a sweet and salty touch, and I think it’s surprisingly delicious. I also like to put it in a lunchbox for a family picnic.
Looking for more simple Orange recipes to try ? Here are a few of our favorites:
Can I freeze cranberry orange sauce ?
Absolutely. Once it’s cooled, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Can I use bottled orange juice ?
You can, but fresh-squeezed orange juice gives a brighter, fresher flavor.
Can I add spices to the sauce ?
Yes! Add cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, or even a dash of ground cloves for warmth.
Can I add other fruits ?
Sure! Try adding chopped apples, pears, or even a handful of raisins for added sweetness and texture.
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Cranberry Orange Sauce
Course: Side Dish, CondimentCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy6
servings5
minutes15
minutes110
kcal20
minutesA bright, tangy, and sweet homemade Cranberry Orange Sauce made with fresh cranberries, orange juice, zest, and sugar. Perfect for holiday dinners and easy enough for any day of the week. Ready in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients
about 3 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup orange juice
1 tablespoon orange zest
1/4 cup water
Optional: pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor
Directions
- The first thing you need to do is wash the cranberries: Start by washing them under cold water. Remove any soft or damaged berries. Then combine the ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, orange peel, and water. Gently stir until combined.
- Now, bring the mixture to a boil: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a boil. This will take about 4-5 minutes. Then, simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer the mixture. The cranberries will begin to split this is normal and enjoyable! Stir occasionally.
- And cook until the mixture thickens: Continue simmering the sauce for 10-12 minutes, or until it begins to thicken. It will appear runny while hot, but it will thicken as it cools.
- Now, let it cool: Remove from heat and let it cool at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. Then, transfer it to a serving or storage container. Finally, if you'd like to chill it optionally: you can serve the sauce warm, at room temperature, or chilled - it's delicious either way!
Notes
- Use Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice: This gives the sauce a fresher, more vibrant citrus flavor.
- Simmer Gently: Don’t boil too hard gentle simmering helps preserve the cranberry flavor and prevents scorching.
- Watch the Sugar: Start with less sugar and add more to taste if needed. Cranberries are tart, but sweetness is personal.
- Add a Splash of Vanilla or Almond Extract: Just 1/4 teaspoon adds a soft, cozy aroma.






